If you are a movie lover, you probably know that some of the most prestigious awards in the film industry are given at international film festivals. These events celebrate the art and innovation of cinema, especially from independent and emerging filmmakers. For example, the Sundance Film Festival in the US gives the Grand Jury Award to honor the originality and vision of indie films. The Berlin International Film Festival, on the other hand, awards the Golden Bear to recognize outstanding cinematic achievements. And the most coveted prize at the famous Cannes Film Festival in France is the Palme d’Or, which is reserved for only the best of the best films shown there. Film festivals are not only a way to showcase movies to live audiences, but also to connect filmmakers with potential investors and distributors. Nigerian cinema, also known as Nollywood, is gaining more recognition and exposure through international film festivals. In 2023, C.J. Obasi’s film Mamiwater won Best Cinematography at Sundance, making history as the first Nigerian film to do so. Also in 2023, Mo Abudu’s short film Iyawo mi was screened at Cannes, where it received a standing ovation from the audience.
Nigeria is home to one of the largest and most vibrant film industries in the world, known as Nollywood. The country produces over 2,000 films per year, covering a wide range of genres, themes and styles. But where can you watch these films and discover new talents? Here are six film festivals you should attend in Nigeria if you are a film lover.
Zuma International Film Festival (ZIFF)
ZIFF is the official film festival of the Nigerian Film Corporation, the government agency responsible for the development and regulation of the film industry. The festival showcases the best of Nigerian cinema, as well as films from other African countries and the diaspora. The festival features screenings, workshops, masterclasses, awards and special events. ZIFF takes place every December in Abuja.
Edo State International Film Festival (ESIFF)
ESIFF is a film festival that celebrates the rich cultural heritage and diversity of Edo State, one of the oldest and most influential regions in Nigeria. The festival showcases films that reflect the history, traditions, values and aspirations of the Edo people, as well as films that promote social justice and development. ESIFF features screenings, workshops, masterclasses, awards and cultural events. ESIFF takes place every November in Benin City, the capital of Edo State.
S16 Film Festival
S16 is a film festival that showcases films made with smartphones. The festival aims to encourage creativity and innovation among filmmakers, especially young and aspiring ones, who can use their mobile devices to tell stories and express themselves. The festival features screenings of short films, documentaries, animations and experimental films made with smartphones, as well as workshops, masterclasses, awards and special events. S16 takes place every July in Lagos.
Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF)
AFRIFF is one of the most prestigious film festivals in Africa, showcasing the best of African cinema and promoting cultural exchange and collaboration. The festival features screenings, workshops, masterclasses, panel discussions, awards and networking events. AFRIFF also supports emerging filmmakers through its talent development program, which offers training, mentorship and funding opportunities. AFRIFF takes place every November in Lagos.
iREP International Documentary Film Festival
iREP is the largest documentary film festival in West Africa, dedicated to promoting and celebrating documentary films as a tool for social change and development. The festival aims to create a platform for dialogue and engagement among filmmakers, audiences, activists and policymakers. iREP features screenings of local and international documentaries, as well as seminars, workshops, masterclasses and awards. iREP takes place every March in Lagos.
Lights Camera Africa!!! Film Festival
Lights Camera Africa!!! is a film festival that celebrates the diversity and creativity of African cinema, with a focus on independent and alternative films. The festival showcases films that explore the complexities and nuances of the African experience, as well as films that challenge stereotypes and conventional narratives. Lights Camera Africa!!! also features live music performances, art exhibitions, panel discussions and parties. Lights Camera Africa!!! takes place every September/October in Lagos.
Abuja International Film Festival
Abuja International Film Festival is the oldest film festival in Nigeria, established in 2004. The festival aims to promote the Nigerian film industry and foster cultural diplomacy and cooperation among nations. The festival features screenings of feature films, documentaries, animations and short films from Nigeria and around the world, as well as workshops, masterclasses, awards and gala nights. Abuja International Film Festival takes place every October in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city.
Eko International Film Festival
Eko International Film Festival is a film festival that showcases the best of Nigerian and international cinema, with a focus on innovation and quality. The festival aims to create a platform for emerging and established filmmakers to network, learn and collaborate. The festival features screenings of feature films, documentaries, short films and animations, as well as workshops, masterclasses, awards and special events. Eko International Film Festival takes place every November in Lagos.
Realtime International Film Festival
Realtime International Film Festival is a film festival that celebrates the power of storytelling through film. The festival showcases films that are relevant, engaging and inspiring, with a focus on social issues and human rights. The festival features screenings of feature films, documentaries, short films and animations from Nigeria and around the world, as well as workshops, masterclasses, awards and special events. Realtime International Film Festival takes place every June in Lagos.