Stakeholders in Nigeria’s film industry have called on the Federal Government and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) administration to support the Abuja International Film Festival (AIFF) as it celebrates its 21st edition, which is currently underway at the Silverbird Galleria in Abuja.
With the theme, “Beyond Borders: Bridging Cultures Through Cinemas”, this year’s event, running from October 28 to November 1, has gathered filmmakers, actors, and industry experts from across the globe.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the festival’s red carpet, the stakeholders underscored the significance of AIFF in driving cultural growth and economic opportunities within the creative sector, which they believe warrants national support. They emphasized the festival’s consistent role in elevating Abuja’s profile as a cultural tourism destination, attracting international filmmakers and investors over the years.
“Abuja is the next hub for filmmaking,” remarked Emmanuel Eyaba, a filmmaker and former chairman of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) FCT chapter.
“If we must take it to another level, the government needs to pay more attention to this film festival. AIFF is one of the most significant film festivals in Africa… sustaining itself for 21 years,” he stated, urging for greater recognition and support.
Veteran Nollywood actor Zack Orji echoed this sentiment, noting that AIFF has become a critical link between Nollywood and other global film industries, serving as a valuable national asset.
“This festival is where Nigerian filmmakers connect with those from other parts of the world for international film production and industry collaboration,” he said, adding praise for founder Fidelis Duker’s commitment. “I must commend Mr. Duker for sustaining it for 21 years, even without grants or funding,” he said.
Festival Director Temitope Duker highlighted the festival’s potential economic impact, emphasizing that “the ripple effects when foreigners come here are vast. All the taxi drivers, food vendors, and hotels in Abuja are in business.”
Duker argued that by creating a more conducive environment, the government could further capitalize on the festival’s economic benefits for Abuja. “This festival doesn’t belong to individuals; it belongs to the industry and the city of Abuja,” she said.
AIFF’s reputation as an internationally recognized event is evident in its wide reach, with 1,254 film submissions from 67 countries. Of these, 82 films were selected, and 53 were nominated for awards. This year’s activities include film screenings, a workshop campus, panel discussions, a masterclass for producers, a fashion show, and an awards ceremony.
National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) CEO, Dr. Shaibu Husseini, who delivered the keynote address, commended AIFF for its resilience. “This is one of the longest-running independently organized film festivals in West Africa,” he said, advocating for its formal adoption by the FCT administration. “It’s not just about showing films; it’s a tourism event. Imagine people traveling from all over to attend, see films, and connect.”
Dr. Husseini emphasized that NFVCB is committed to supporting film industry initiatives aligned with President Tinubu’s vision of boosting Nigeria’s cultural and creative sectors.
