Cancel Preloader
The Benue International Film Festival (BIFF) is a premier cultural event celebrating the art of filmmaking, showcasing local and international talent, and fostering creative exchange in the heart of Nigeria.
BENIFFEST is dedicated to showcasing diverse and exceptional films from established and emerging filmmakers worldwide. Providing a platform for cultural exchange and artistic expression. Fostering a love for cinema and nurturing the next generation of filmmakers.
To celebrate diverse storytelling, nurture film talent, and position Benue as a hub for cinematic excellence.
To become Africa’s leading film festival, fostering creativity, innovation, and global collaboration.
BIFFEST is guided by a set of core principles that define our mission and shape our impact on the film industry and society.
GET EXPERIENCE
Filmmaker, Entrepreneur
Femi Odugbemi is a Nigerian writer, filmmaker, television producer and the founder and executive producer of Zuri24 Media, a content production company in Lagos, Nigeria.
Filmmaker | Media Consultant
Victor Okhai is a multi-talented filmmaker, veteran journalist, and media consultant with a career spanning over three decades. He is a prominent leader in the Nigerian creative industry, currently serving as the National President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN).
A versatile intellectual, Okhai is also an investment banker and global policy analyst. He notably ventured into politics as a presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2019 general elections, advocating for youth inclusion and systemic reform.
Actor | Producer | Consultant
Francis Kainebi Onwochei is a consummate stage and screen actor, veteran TV/Film producer, and industry consultant. With a career spanning several decades, he has established himself as a pillar of the Nigerian creative arts.
Known for his versatility, Onwochei has starred in numerous iconic theatrical productions and cinematic projects. Beyond performance, he is a seasoned filmmaker and creative strategist who has played a significant role in the growth and professionalization of Nollywood.
Actor | CEO of Papel Image Tech
Paul Apel Papel is an Abuja-based award-winning filmmaker, producer, and film editor known for his technical excellence and for championing the growth of Nollywood in Northern Nigeria. He is the CEO of Papel Image Tech, a production and equipment house.
Films: Eagle Wings, Blue Flames, 90 Ninth Day, The Bond, and The Caller.
Editing & Technical Credits: He won awards for his editing work on the hit movie Mr. and Mrs. and has directed popular TV series like Halita.
Actor | Director | Politician | Lecturer
Samuel Dedetoku, professionally known as Sam Dede, is a legendary Nigerian actor, director, politician, and lecturer. Often referred to as "The General," he is widely considered one of the most influential and versatile actors in the history of Nollywood.
He transitioned into public administration when he was appointed as the Director-General of the Rivers State Tourism Development Agency in 2012.
Afrofuturist Pioneer
D. Denenge Duyst-Akpem is a multidisciplinary "space sculptor," performance artist, writer, and educator. Born in Benue State, Nigeria, and based in Chicago, she is a leading voice in Afrofuturism, using it as a methodology for liberation, healing, and decolonization.
A 2022 La Becque Laureate and former NEH Fellow, her work has been featured in major institutions like the Studio Museum in Harlem, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, and the Schomburg Center.
She is the founder of Denenge Design, a holistic design consultancy. Her work bridges the gap between interior design, site-specific sculpture, and public art.
Celebrity arrivals, media interviews, and photo opportunities. Formal attire required.
H.E Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia
Welcome address by Festival Director, Keynote by Governor of Benue State, Commissioner for Information, Commisioner for Youth Development, Commissioner for Art, Culture and Tourism, Cultural performance by Tiv, Idoma and Igede Traditional Dance Troupe
Paul Apel Papel
Directed by Paul Papel Apel (Nigeria) | 2024 | Drama | 118 min
Followed by Q&A with director and cast. Reception to follow.
VIP networking reception with filmmakers, sponsors, and industry delegates. Traditional Benue cuisine served.
Femi Odugbemi
Industry leaders discuss the shift in distribution models, revenue sharing, and the future of cinema-going in Africa.
Netflix Africa Rep | FilmOne Distributor | Silverbird Cinemas | Exodus Cinema📍Main Conference Hall
Five selected filmmakers pitch to investors and producers for funding opportunities.
📍Investors Lounge
Hands-on session with DaVinci Resolve. Bring your own laptop.
📍 Edit Suite 2
Aderonke “Ronky-Fella” Faniran, a mother of two and successful real estate mogul, is loved for her generosity. But as everyone around her grows to expect her kindness, she gives until there’s nothing left, neglecting herself in the process. Director: Funke Akindele, Tunde Olaoye
Lucy Ameh
Casual networking for early risers. Pastries provided.
Reserved seating for badge holders. Benue cuisine buffet.
Live music by Benue artists, DJ, open bar for badge holders.
Industry leaders discuss the shift in distribution models, revenue sharing, and the future of cinema-going in Africa.
Five selected filmmakers pitch to investors and producers for funding opportunities.
Hands-on session with Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve. Bring your own laptop.
Celebrity interviews and fashion showcase
16 categories including Best Film, Director, Actor, Actress
Honoring Olu Jacobs (Nigeria)
The Promise" (Closing Night Film) followed by seated dinner
Jonah Jang Cres, High Level, Makurdi 970101, Benue State.
Name: Unenge Kumator
Phone: +234 706 449 5898
Email: contact@beniffest.com
Name: Chiagi Stephen
Phone: +234 706 449 5898
Email: chiagi@beniffest.com
Jonah Jang Cres, High Level, Makurdi 970101, Benue State.
Name: Mabel Udende
Phone: +234 801 234 5678
Email: enquiry@beniffest.com
Name: Chiagi Stephen
Phone: 0816 234 5678
Email: chiagi@beniffest.com
Jonah Jang Cres, High Level, Makurdi 970101, Benue State.
Name: Mabel Udende
Phone: +234 801 234 5678
Email: enquiry@beniffest.com
Name: Chiagi Stephen
Phone: 0816 234 5678
Email: chiagi@beniffest.com
