NAIJA AI FILM FESTIVAL (NAIFF)
Africa's first AI film festival, founded by Nigerian filmmaker and producer Obinna Okerekeocha. Held in Lagos at Alliance Française, NAIFF received 490 submissions in its inaugural edition and featured a global showcase of AI-assisted films, panel discussions, local AI tool showcases (Switch Studio, AIstudio.ng), and Gen Jam — a training session where attendees created AI films from scratch in four hours. The festival's Best AI Long-Form Film went to Godzilla in Lagos by Nirvs AI. NAIFF is building a community to reimagine African filmmaking with AI, addressing the gap between Africa's creative talent and global infrastructure. The festival emerged just months after Makemation — Nigeria's first AI-assisted feature film — grossed ₦32 million at the box office in 4 days.
Deadline
2nd edition expected 2026. Check naijaaifilmfest.com for announcements.
Cost
Via FilmFreeway — check listing for current fees
Format
AI-assisted films — all formats including short films, features, and experimental.
Eligibility
Global submissions welcome, with a focus on African and African-diaspora creators. Films must incorporate AI tools in the creative process.
What You Get
Festival screening and awards. Community access to Africa's AI filmmaking network. Training and mentorship. Local AI tool showcases.
What to Submit
Completed AI-assisted film via FilmFreeway or the NAIFF website.
Insider Tips
This is ground zero for AI filmmaking in Africa. If you are an African creator exploring AI tools, NAIFF is your home festival. The community network is as valuable as the screening — connecting you to other AI-forward African filmmakers, local tool developers, and the growing Lagos AI creative scene.
Watch naijaaifilmfest.com for 2nd edition call for submissions in 2026.
Verify dates and eligibility on the official website before applying.
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