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Femi Odugbemi named jury member for Cannes Lions International Festival

Femi Odugbemi

Filmmaker Femi Odugbemi has been named a jury member for the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.

The 62-year-old shared the news on his Facebook page on Thursday.

“I am honoured to be named earlier today as a Jury Member in the Film category for the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity 2026. The Cannes Lions 2026 jury brings together an exceptional group of global industry experts who will help define the creative benchmark for the year ahead. The lineup reflects the diversity of voices, perspectives, and ideas shaping the future of storytelling. In June, we will gather in Cannes to evaluate and celebrate the most creative and impactful work from around the world., works that not only inspires but also sets new standards for excellence. Grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this global conversation on creativity, craft, and impact.”

Odugbemi is the founder and chief executive officer of Zuri24 Media, a Lagos-based content production company behind series such as Brethren, Movement (Japa) and Covenant.

He is a voting member of both the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. In September 2024, he was appointed to the Oscar Academy’s International Engagement Committee.

Odugbemi has served as head judge of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) for several editions, including the 11th edition in 2025, and was academy director for West Africa at the MultiChoice Talent Factory.

In 2010, he co-founded the iRepresent (iREP) International Documentary Film Festival alongside Jahman Anikulapo and Makin Soyinka to promote the use of documentary film for sociocultural education.

The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity is held annually in Cannes, France. It is one of the most recognised global events in advertising, marketing and communications. The festival brings together professionals from across the creative industries and features award competitions, conferences and exhibitions.

The 2026 edition of the festival is scheduled to run from June 22 to June 26.