The Ibadan International Film Festival (IIFF) is proud to announce the Official Selection for its highly anticipated 4th edition, scheduled to take place from 18th – 20th September 2025 at The Bunker, Ibadan
With this year’s theme, “Story Meets Strategy,” IIFF continues to redefine the boundaries of African and global cinema, exploring how creativity can drive meaningful impact. The festival remains committed to amplifying bold voices, strengthening industry collaborations, and demonstrating how storytelling can influence culture, society, and the future of film.
Since its inception in 2021, IIFF has grown into one of Africa’s most vibrant cultural platforms. The 2025 edition received a record-breaking number of submissions from across the globe, with entries representing over 100 countries. Following a rigorous selection process by an esteemed jury, this year’s Official Selection showcases an extraordinary lineup of feature films, documentaries, shorts, animations, and experimental works.
Highlights from the Official Selection
- Vas Mar – Iran – Best Supporting Actor (Female)
- Miss PJ – Nigeria – Nominated for Best Feature Film, Best Actress, and Best Supporting Actor (Female)
- The West Sky – Iran – Contending for Best Feature Film, Best Cinematography, Best Director, and Best Production Design
- Something about the Briggs – Nigeria – Multiple nods including Best Supporting Actor (Male) and Best Supporting Actor (Female)
- ISEKONU – Nigeria – Strong in student categories with nominations for Best Student Film (Nigeria) and Best Actress
- People I Meet – South Korea – Sweeping nominations for Best Feature Film, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Cinematography, and Best Director
- PITTURA – France – Recognized in Best Student Film and Best Production Design
- The Island – Turkey – Best Child Actor (Female)
- Life’s Wheel – Iran – Best Animation
- Record Found Here – Nigeria – Best Documentary
- …and many more.
Speaking on the announcement, Femi Davies Alagbala, Head of Marketing and Communications, IIFF, stated:
“The 4th edition of IIFF is not just about films, but about the strategy behind storytelling. With ‘Story Meets Strategy,’ we are celebrating creativity while highlighting how stories can be positioned to create lasting impact across industries and communities.”
Festival Director Babatunde Ojobaro a.k.a Mister Rain added:
“This year, audiences can expect a dynamic blend of screenings, workshops, masterclasses, and networking opportunities. IIFF is more than a festival. it is a movement that empowers filmmakers, builds connections, and brings global attention to Ibadan.
Convener of the Festival, Usman Olarotimi 'Blackky' Ogunlade, a highly profiled filmmaker, also shared his vision:
“The Ibadan International Film Festival is more than a celebration of cinema; it is a testament to the resilience and creativity of storytellers across the globe. Our goal has always been to make Ibadan, Nigeria and Africa at large ; a cultural hub where narratives from diverse backgrounds converge to inspire, educate, and transform society. The 4th edition will further solidify IIFF’s place as a festival of international repute and a beacon of opportunity for filmmakers.”
Festival Details:
- Venue: The Bunker, Ibadan
- Dates: 18th – 20th September 2025
About the Ibadan International Film Festival (IIFF)
Founded in 2021, the Ibadan International Film Festival (IIFF) is dedicated to celebrating storytelling through film, fostering cross-cultural dialogue, and positioning Ibadan as a global hub for creativity and cinema. Now in its fourth year, IIFF has become a vital platform for filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences from Africa and beyond.