About AIFF

Celebrating African Cinema. Connecting the World.

The Abuja International Film Festival (AIFF) is a leading international film festival based in Abuja, Nigeria, dedicated to celebrating cinema, developing creative talent and connecting African filmmakers with the global film community.

For more than two decades, AIFF has brought filmmakers, industry professionals, emerging creatives and audiences together through screenings, premieres, conversations, workshops, masterclasses, networking and awards.

At AIFF, we believe that stories have the power to cross borders, preserve culture, challenge perspectives and connect the world.

The Abuja International Film Festival was founded by Nigerian filmmaker and cultural advocate Fidelis Duker with a vision to create a sustainable international platform for filmmakers in Nigeria and across Africa. From its beginnings, the festival has grown into an important meeting point for filmmakers, producers, actors, writers, students, policymakers, investors, broadcasters, distributors and film enthusiasts.

Based in Nigeria’s capital city, AIFF provides a space where African stories meet global audiences and where filmmakers at different stages of their careers can showcase their work, exchange knowledge and build valuable professional relationships. Today, the festival continues to evolve alongside the film industry while remaining committed to its central purpose: giving stories, filmmakers and new voices a platform to be seen and heard.

Our mission

Our mission is to celebrate compelling cinema, develop creative talent and strengthen connections between African filmmakers and the global film industry. We achieve this by creating opportunities for film exhibition, professional development, industry dialogue, collaboration, networking and cultural exchange.

Our vision

Our vision is to build a globally respected film festival that champions African storytelling, creative excellence, innovation and international collaboration while contributing to a stronger and more sustainable African screen industry.

What we do....

Film Exhibition

AIFF provides a platform for feature films, short films, documentaries, animation and other forms of screen storytelling from Nigeria, Africa and around the world.

Industry Conversations

Panels, conversations and special sessions bring filmmakers, policymakers, technology leaders, investors and other industry stakeholders together to discuss the opportunities and challenges shaping contemporary cinema.

Training & Talent Development

Through workshops, masterclasses and the AIFF Academy, we support emerging filmmakers and creative professionals with practical knowledge, mentorship and opportunities for professional development.

Networking & Collaboration

AIFF creates an environment where filmmakers can meet potential collaborators, producers, distributors, investors, institutions and other professionals from across the creative ecosystem.

Recognition & Awards

The festival celebrates outstanding filmmaking and creative achievement through its awards programme, recognising filmmakers and productions that demonstrate excellence, originality and impact.

Meet the Team

Our strength lies in our individuality. Set up by Esther Bryce, the team strives to bring in the best talent in various fields, from architecture to interior design and sales.

Temitope Duker

Co-Founder / Festival Director

Fidelia Abah

Festival Programmer

Lucy Ilado

Festival Consultant

Bond Emeruwa

Festival Consultant