INIFFAA 2024: A Spectacular Showcase of Original Expression

From February 15th to 17th, Inside Nollywood hosted an exceptional International Film Festival and Awards at the prestigious Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. Themed “Celebrating Original Expression,” the festival aimed to promote the rich native and cultural arts of the Nigerian people. Adding to the cultural ambiance, traditional Dambe fights were scheduled and held on the second day of the festival.

The event attracted a diverse audience, including industry practitioners, actors, producers, scriptwriters, cinematographers, and investors from various fields with a keen interest in Nollywood. While some attended for entertainment, others sought investment opportunities in the flourishing industry.

The festival saw the presence of Nollywood practitioners, investors, stakeholders, and visitors from numerous African nations and beyond, all coming together to celebrate original expression.

The festivities kicked off on February 15th with a glamorous red carpet, expertly managed by Miracle Marcus. This was followed by a captivating cultural dance performance by the Gbagyi cultural dance troupe.

The event featured an electrifying performance by actors and actresses of the Precious Image troupe, who delighted guests with a brilliantly choreographed short play. Additionally, there were engaging panel sessions and intellectually stimulating lectures on acting and camera handling by Nollywood veteran Mr. Francis Duru and renowned cinematographer Mr. Iyamu Osaretin Retz.

The festival also served as a platform to honour exceptional practitioners in the industry. From hall of fame to outstanding achievements.

Best Short Film: “DAZED (all alone)” directed by Lawal David Olufemi.

Best Short Film ( Foreign): “The Collector” directed by Andrew Evans Omolo.

Best Documentary: “New African American Cinema” directed by Orji Obiorah

Best Documentary (Foreign): “Diasporans Hidden Kulture” directed by Nola D.

Best Film (Foreign): “Reunion” directed by Gregory Alan Williams.

Best Film: “Lami” directed by Idiagbonya Samuel.

Best Animation (Foreign): “Hekima ya Usawa” directed Telly Gary Jeannot.

Achievement in Screenplay: “Brahma’s Feet” by Krystopher Hugo Neto Taulois de Andrade

Emeka Duru was awarded Best Production Manager, Lugard Peters received Best Sound Recordist, and Ndukwu Nnaemeka Austin (Emeka China) was honored as Best Costume Designer. Notable awards also went to Amb (Dr.) Chief Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen for Most Stylish Filmmaker, Simeon Mba for Best Production Assistant, and Ochiagha Miracle Chidinma for Best Makeup Artiste.

Special recognition was given to Obe Okoja Williams for contributions to youth development, and Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa received the Award for Excellence for advocacy for physically challenged people. Emeka Rollas was recognized as the Outstanding Guild Leader of the Year, Omegbu Sunday Onyekwulu as the Best Sound Man, and Success Njoku as the Fastest Rising Star.

The festival provided a unique platform for networking, learning, and promoting original expressions from indigenous cultures, showcasing the vibrant spirit of Nollywood and celebrating its rich tapestry of talent and creativity.