E247mag reports: Idris Elba sent waves of excitement through the entertainment industry after declaring during his appearance at the prestigious TIFF Tribute Awards that Lagos is “the most amazing city in the world.” The British actor and filmmaker praised the city’s energy, culture, and immense creative talent, describing Lagos as a place unlike anywhere else on earth.
Elba, born Idrissa Akuna Elba in London to a Sierra Leonean father and Ghanaian mother, has built a global reputation as one of Hollywood’s most versatile stars. With acclaimed roles in movies such as Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, Beasts of No Nation, and the Fast & Furious franchise, alongside his iconic TV role as Detective John Luther, Elba has become a celebrated figure in film and music. His admiration for Lagos adds another dimension to his longstanding appreciation for African culture and heritage.
At the TIFF event, the actor also singled out British-Nigerian singer Seal, born Henry Olusegun Samuel, for proudly embracing his Nigerian roots in a new acting role. Elba explained that Seal’s presence carried deep symbolic weight and reflected the cultural pride of Nigerians across the globe. A standout moment from Elba’s time in Lagos, he revealed, was a live performance of a song created for the film, delivered by Seal and Nigerian rising star Konstance. The collaboration blended Seal’s legendary artistry with Konstance’s fresh sound, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
Elba’s remarks highlight Lagos’ growing global influence as a creative hub. With Afrobeats dominating international music charts, Nollywood films breaking into streaming platforms worldwide, and Lagos fashion designers shaping global trends, the city continues to command attention. His glowing tribute not only cements Lagos’ reputation as Africa’s entertainment capital but also elevates its profile on the world stage as a city bursting with culture, talent, and opportunity.