The year 2024 stands out as a milestone for top Nollywood actress and producer Chioma Rose Ukeaja, whose brilliance was celebrated at the maiden edition of the Abia State International Film Festival.
Held from December 20th to 22nd, the event brought together industry icons from across Nigeria and Africa, creating a grand platform for showcasing creativity and storytelling excellence. Among the highlights of the festival was Ukeaja’s triumph in the Best Picture category with her film, Slap of Destiny, which received widespread acclaim for its artistic depth and captivating narrative.
The award-winning movie, Slap of Destiny, boasts an impressive lineup of Nollywood’s finest actors and actresses, including Ejike Asiegbu, Tony Umez, Nosa Rex, and Mercy Aigbe. Supporting this star-studded cast were Florence Sunday, Felix Ugo Omokhodion, Fred Aminu, and Ukeaja herself.
The film’s compelling story was penned by Jerry Okpan and brought to life under the masterful direction of ace cinematographer Perekeme Odom. Ukeaja’s victory at the festival underscored her ability to blend exceptional storytelling with top-tier production, making her a standout among the numerous submissions received for the competition.
In a statement issued by the festival organizers, Ukeaja’s Slap of Destiny was praised for its creativity, dedication, and storytelling brilliance. “Your contribution has significantly enriched our celebration of the arts and culture in Abia State,” the statement read.
“Your passion for filmmaking inspires us, and we are committed to fostering a space where talents like yours continue to thrive. As we plan for future editions of the Festival, we eagerly look forward to welcoming more of your remarkable projects to our platform.” The recognition highlighted not only Ukeaja’s work but also the cultural significance of her contributions to Nigerian cinema.
Reflecting on her journey, Chioma Rose Ukeaja’s career is a testament to perseverance and versatility. Starting as a makeup artist in 2014, she transitioned into film production with her debut movie, Nemesis, in 2017.
Since then, she has produced a string of award-winning films, including Love Over Marriage, Unforgiven Soul, Heavy Heart, and Zara. Her ability to tackle diverse themes and create engaging narratives has solidified her reputation as one of Nollywood’s most dynamic filmmakers. Speaking on her creative process, Ukeaja often emphasizes the importance of passion and dedication in bringing stories to life.
Adding to her accomplishments, Ukeaja’s latest movie, Roza and the Kids, was released on Christmas Day 2024 on her YouTube channel, Sparkling Rose TV. The film promises to deliver the same captivating and entertaining experience that audiences have come to expect from her productions.
As the CEO of Sparkling Rose Films Production Ltd and the owner of Sparkling Rose TV, Ukeaja continues to set new standards in Nigerian filmmaking. Her success at the Abia State International Film Festival marks another milestone in her illustrious career, inspiring emerging filmmakers and enriching the cinematic landscape of Nigeria.
