Stakeholders call for government support for the Abuja International Film Festival, a key cultural event that bridges global cinematic communities.
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s film industry are calling on the Federal Government and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) administration to provide support for the Abuja International Film Festival (AIIF), which has been a cornerstone of the nation’s film culture for 21 years.
This appeal was made during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the red carpet of the festival’s opening ceremony, held at the Silverbird Galleria in Abuja.
The 21st edition of AIIF, themed “Beyond Borders: Bridging Cultures Through Cinemas,” runs from 28 October to 1 November and has attracted a diverse array of actors, filmmakers, regulators, and other cinematic stakeholders from around the globe.
Film festivals are crucial for cultural growth and creative industries, serving as platforms for showcasing opportunities and attracting investments.
According to industry stakeholders, the AIIF, as a private initiative, has transformed the FCT into a tourist attraction, fostering connections among filmmakers, actors, and investors from various countries over the past two decades.
Emmanuel Eyaba, a filmmaker and former Chairman of the FCT chapter of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), emphasised the importance of supporting the AIIF to further establish Abuja as a filmmaking hub.
“As a matter of fact, Abuja is the next hub for filmmaking, and if we must take it to another level, the government needs to pay more attention to this film festival,” he stated.
Eyaba highlighted that the AIIF is one of the most significant film festivals in Africa, having successfully sustained itself for over two decades.
Legendary actor Zack Orji echoed these sentiments, stating that the AIIF serves as a vital connection between Nollywood and international film industries.
“This festival is where Nigerian filmmakers connect with their counterparts from around the world for international production opportunities,” he explained.
Orji commended the founder, Mr. Fidelis Duker, for his unwavering commitment to the festival, despite the lack of grants and funding.
Festival Director Temitope Duker noted that the annual event has become a preferred tourist destination for Nigeria, particularly in the FCT. However, she highlighted funding as a significant challenge.
“The government needs to understand that they have to be fully involved in this film festival to reap its benefits for the country,” she said.
Duker illustrated the economic impact of the festival, explaining that increased foreign participation would boost local businesses, including taxi services, food vendors, and hotels.
This year, the festival received 1,254 film submissions from 67 countries, with 82 films selected and 53 nominated for awards.
The event features a variety of activities, including film screenings, workshops, panel discussions, and exclusive masterclasses.
Dr. Shaibu Husseini, Executive Director and CEO of the National Film and Video Census Board (NFVCB), commended the AIIF for its steadfast vision over the past 21 years.
He described the festival as one of the longest-running independently organised film festivals in West Africa and praised its consistency.
Husseini expressed his hope for the festival to be adopted as a major cultural event by the Abuja government, stating, “Beyond showing films, it is a tourism event that draws people from different areas to connect and engage.”
The NFVCB is actively working with key stakeholders to drive innovative reforms for Nigeria’s film industry, in line with President Tinubu’s commitment to repositioning the culture and creative sectors for national growth.
Business3 years ago
