Nigeria’s Film Festival Season Showcases Diverse Voices, Creative Narratives

Nigeria is set to become a cinematic hub as multiple film festivals prepare to unfold across the country, offering platforms for both established and emerging filmmakers to showcase their work.

The season kicks off with The Annual Film Mischief (TAFM) from Oct. 10-12, 2024, spanning locations including Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Accra, and Tanzania. TAFM aims to recognize films that push storytelling boundaries while honoring traditional roots.

Building on this momentum, the Abuja International Film Festival (AIFF) follows from Oct. 28-Nov. 1, 2024. This global event invites filmmakers worldwide to exhibit their artistry in the nation’s capital, further expanding the international scope of Nigeria’s festival circuit.

As autumn progresses, Lagos takes center stage with the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) from Nov. 3-9, 2024. One of the continent’s largest film gatherings, AFRIFF has become a launchpad for African filmmakers seeking global recognition. Feature films that have graced the AFRIFF stage and won awards at previous ceremonies include the biopic “Funmilayo Ransome Kuti,” the romantic drama “All the Colors of the World Are Between Black and White,” and the neo-noir film “Black Harvest.”

Maintaining the focus on emerging talent, the Lagos Fringe Festival runs from Nov. 19-24, 2024, at Freedom Park. This event, sponsored by Pawstudios Africa, is one of the largest outdoor festivals in West Africa, aiming to impact and encourage young African talents to see filmmaking as an art form.

As the season progresses, attention shifts eastward with the Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival (ENIFF) in Enugu from Nov. 27-30, 2024. ENIFF draws from Eastern Nigeria’s rich connection to Nollywood and African storytelling, with a specific emphasis on female filmmakers.

Returning to the capital, Abuja hosts the Zuma Film Festival from Dec. 1-5, 2024. This event expands beyond screenings to offer workshops, masterclasses, and a film market under the theme “Digital Renaissance: Embracing the Future.”

The season concludes in Lagos with the S16 Film Festival from Dec. 10-13, 2024. Now in its fourth year, S16 has already made its mark by showcasing award-winning films. Notable entries include “Mami Wata” by C.J Obasi and “Juju Stories,” which subsequently secured an Amazon Prime Video deal