Film festivals in Nigeria are events that are organised for filmmakers and film enthusiasts. In these ceremonies, you get to see the latest works of Nigerian filmmakers, especially those who are trying to break into the industry.
Nigeria’s film industry – Nollywood – is the second-largest in the world by volume, and every year, film festivals across the country celebrate this creativity.
For filmmakers, critics, students, and enthusiasts, film festivals are not just about screening movies; they are opportunities to network, learn, and showcase Nigerian stories to the world.
If you’re looking for the best platforms to showcase your film, here are the Top 10 Film Festivals in Nigeria to mark on your calendar.
Film Festivals in Nigeria
Here is the list of the top film festivals in Nigeria;
- Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF)
- Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival (ENIFF)
- Bayelsa International Film Festival (BIFF)
- Eko International Film Festival (EKOIFF)
- Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF)
- Benin City Film Festival (BCFF)
- Inside Nollywood International Film Festival & Awards (INIFFAA)
- Nollywood Travel Film Festival (NTFF)
- Coal City Film Festival
- Nigerian Film Festivals Association (NFFA)
1. Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF)
- Location: Lagos
- Typical Date: November
- Highlights: Nigeria’s biggest film festival. Features premieres, masterclasses, content markets, and networking opportunities. Attracts both local and international filmmakers.
2. Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival (ENIFF)
- Location: Enugu
- Typical Date: November
- Highlights: Provides a platform for filmmakers from Eastern Nigeria and beyond. Features shorts, narratives, documentaries, and workshops.
3. Bayelsa International Film Festival (BIFF)
- Location: Yenagoa, Bayelsa State
- Typical Date: September
- Highlights: Focused on “Film and Identity”. Celebrates cultural diversity, storytelling, and the link between cinema and heritage.
4. Eko International Film Festival (EKOIFF)
- Location: Lagos
- Typical Date: March
- Highlights: Independent festival spotlighting short films, feature films, and documentaries. Includes screenplay competitions, music scores, and workshops.
5. Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF)
- Location: Kaduna
- Typical Date: August
- Highlights: Focused on “Film for Social Change.” Uses cinema as a tool for advocacy and dialogue, especially in Northern Nigeria.
6. Benin City Film Festival (BCFF)
- Location: Benin City
- Typical Date: November
- Highlights: Affordable, inclusive festival that showcases local and international films. Popular among students and emerging filmmakers.
7. Inside Nollywood International Film Festival & Awards (INIFFAA)
- Location: Awka, Anambra State
- Typical Date: February
- Highlights: Blends Nollywood screenings with rich cultural heritage — including masquerades, stage drama, and traditional showcases.
8. Nollywood Travel Film Festival (NTFF)
- Location: Lagos & international cities
- Date: Multiple screenings across the year
- Highlights: Dedicated to showcasing Nollywood films globally. A unique travelling festival connecting Nollywood with diaspora audiences.
9. Coal City Film Festival
- Location: Enugu / Imo axis (Eastern Nigeria)
- Typical Date: March
- Highlights: Focuses on independent cinema, student films, and documentaries. Supports grassroots filmmaking in South-East Nigeria.
10. Nigerian Film Festivals Association (NFFA)
- Location: Various cities across Nigeria
- Date: Throughout the year
- Highlights: The NFFA serves as an umbrella body, coordinating smaller and regional festivals across Nigeria. It’s a useful hub for filmmakers to track niche events, student-focused festivals, and speciality screenings happening nationwide.
Why Nigerian Film Festivals Matter
Film festivals in Nigeria are more than just movie screenings. They:
- Provide visibility for independent and upcoming filmmakers.
- Encourage networking with actors, producers, and investors.
- Promote Nigerian culture and storytelling to global audiences.
- Offer training through masterclasses and panel discussions.
- Boost Nollywood’s global influence as one of the fastest-growing film industries in the world.
Conclusion
From Lagos to Kaduna, Bayelsa to Enugu, Nigerian film festivals are vibrant spaces for celebrating stories, culture, and talent.
Whether you’re an established filmmaker or just starting, these festivals offer opportunities to learn, connect, and showcase your creativity to the world.
Let me know in the comments if you have any questions about film festivals.
