From July 23 to 25, 2026, Owerri, the Imo State capital, is expected to transform into a vibrant hub for global cinema as the Imo International Film Festival (IIFF) returns for its second edition. The event will bring together filmmakers, actors, directors, and film enthusiasts from 24 countries for three days of screenings, conversations, and creative exchange.
This year’s festival will be hosted at Havana Cinemas, New Owerri, and is already being positioned by organizers as a defining moment for Nigeria’s creative industry calendar.
The opening night will feature a screening of the Nigerian film “Greatest Oath”, produced by Ocean Portal Entertainment, setting the tone for what the organizers describe as a major cultural showcase.
“It’s the movie event of the year,” is how the opening has been framed by the organizers, underscoring the ambition behind this year’s edition.
Bigger Vision for Imo’s Creative Economy
Festival Director Donatus Nkem Chikezie, widely known as Donkems, says the 2026 edition reflects a significant expansion in both scale and purpose. According to him, the festival is designed not just as a screening platform but as a developmental space for emerging talent and industry collaboration.
“IIFF exists to tell our stories, empower our youth, and grow Imo’s creative economy,” Donkems said. “This year, we’re going bigger and we want the whole state to be part of it.”
His remarks highlight a broader vision: positioning Imo State as a recognizable force within Nigeria’s growing film ecosystem, while also nurturing young creatives through exposure and mentorship opportunities.
Screenings, Panels, and Industry Networking
Beyond film screenings, the festival will feature panel discussions with established industry professionals, talent showcases, and structured networking sessions aimed at connecting young filmmakers with investors and experienced practitioners.
Organizers say this blend of programming is intended to bridge the gap between emerging voices and the business side of filmmaking, an area many young creatives struggle to access.
Delegates will also be taken on curated tours of notable Imo landmarks, including the scenic Oguta Lake, adding a cultural tourism layer to the festival experience.
Venues Split Between Cinema and Gala Night Prestige
While Havana Cinemas in New Owerri will host the core screenings and daytime activities, the festival’s glamour segment will unfold at Golden Vesta Hotels, where the gala and awards night are scheduled to take place.
The separation of venues reflects the dual identity of the festival—grounded in cinematic engagement during the day and celebratory recognition at night.
Jury Leadership and International Participation
Adding to its growing international profile, IIFF 2026 will welcome participants from 24 countries. The festival jury will be led by acclaimed filmmaker Amayo Uzo Philip, who will oversee the selection and awarding process.
His involvement is expected to further strengthen the festival’s credibility among both local and international participants.
Building Momentum Since Inception
Since its launch, the Imo International Film Festival has steadily grown into a gathering point for Nigeria’s film community. It has also been increasingly viewed as part of a broader effort to position Owerri as an emerging film production and cultural destination.
With expanded programming, wider international participation, and a clear focus on youth empowerment, the 2026 edition appears set to deepen that trajectory and further embed the festival within Africa’s evolving film landscape.