The 14th edition of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) is set to open in Lagos on November 2, featuring a newly introduced film and content market designed to boost creative trade and attract greater tourism inflow.
Scheduled to run from November 2 to 8, the festival will showcase a rich selection of feature films, documentaries, and short films from across Africa and the diaspora.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Lagos, the Founder of AFRIFF, Ms. Chioma Ude, said; “the new film and content market would serve as a business hub for studios, streaming platforms, and investors, fostering collaborations and expanding opportunities within the continent’s creative industry.”
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According to her, the initiative is designed to “connect storytellers and financiers” while reinforcing Nigeria’s position as “Africa’s entertainment capital.”
She said Lagos remained the natural host city because of its infrastructure and global reputation for creativity.
“Every November, AFRIFF transforms Lagos into a creative hub where producers, actors and executives meet. This year we expect the market to generate real deals and new partnerships,” she added.
Meanwhile, Hotels across Victoria Island and the Lekki area of Lagos have reported a surge in advance bookings since early October, with average occupancy projected to exceed 90 per cent during the festival week.
Mr Adewale Ayo-Adesanya, Vice Chairman, Hotel Owners Forum Lagos (HOFLA), told the Media that the festival usually lifts both room sales and allied services such as transport, dining and nightlife.
“AFRIFF now rivals major December events in the number of international guests it brings in. Many visitors extend their stay into December, so it helps Lagos’ tourism economy,” he said.
The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture said it was working with security and traffic agencies to ensure smooth movement during the week-long event.
Mr Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, told the press that the state viewed AFRIFF as part of its creative-industry agenda.
“We support initiatives that position Lagos as a film-friendly destination. Beyond the screenings, we want visitors to explore our beaches, galleries and culinary spots,” Aregbe said.
FAA/Oluchi