By Peter Dansu The ancient coastal town of Badagry is set to come alive again this November as the Badagry International Film Festival (BIF...
By Peter Dansu
The ancient coastal town of Badagry is set to come alive again this November as the Badagry International Film Festival (BIFIF) returns for its much-anticipated third edition, themed “Roots and Routes.” The three-day cultural and cinematic celebration will run from November 21 to 23, 2025, at the historic Vlekete Slave Market, one of West Africa’s most profound heritage sites.
More than just a film festival, this year’s edition doubles as the official launch of “Detty December Badagry,” heralding a festive season packed with culture, entertainment, and tourism.
Government Endorsement and Community Support
Following a strategic meeting with Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, Chairman of Badagry Local Government, the festival received a strong reaffirmation of government backing. According to organizers, this endorsement cements Badagry’s readiness to host an international event that merges art, history, and tourism.
BIFIF 2025 has also earned the official support of the Nigeria Film Festival Association and the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, signaling its growing national recognition as a key player in Nigeria’s creative landscape.
In a forward-thinking move, the festival has partnered with the Theatre and Art Department of Lagos State University (LASU) and the Theatre Department of the Lagos State University of Education (LASUED). These collaborations aim to bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world creative practice, offering students and young filmmakers invaluable exposure to the film industry.
This year’s festival promises an inspiring lineup of film and art veterans who will mentor, teach, and share their craft. Notable names include:
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Femi Odugbemi, Academy Award-nominated filmmaker
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Yinka Davies, legendary vocalist and performer
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James Amuta and Ade Oshin, acclaimed film directors
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Remi Ogunpitan, cinematographer
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Jahman Anikulapo, cultural critic
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Segun Arinze and Afeez Oyetoro (Saka), veteran actors
Training and Film Development Programmes
Ahead of the main festival, a two-day intensive training session for emerging filmmakers will hold from November 17–18. Participants will undergo hands-on instruction, submit short film projects by November 19, and have their works evaluated between November 20–21. These sessions aim to build a new generation of creative storytellers grounded in both technique and cultural consciousness.
Festival Founder and Director Viyon Awhanse explained that the decision to host the event at the Vlekete Slave Market was intentional and deeply symbolic.
“The Vlekete Slave Market connects our past and present. It’s a reminder of our shared heritage and a fitting backdrop for the theme ‘Roots and Routes’, exploring where we come from and the journeys that continue to shape us,” Awhanse said.
According to him, the goal of BIFIF 2025 goes beyond entertainment. It’s about empowering independent filmmakers, reclaiming cultural narratives, and positioning Badagry as a global destination for artistic and historical reflection.
About BIFIF
The Badagry International Film Festival celebrates the art of filmmaking while promoting cultural exchange and dialogue. By leveraging the town’s rich heritage, BIFIF continues to connect storytellers, filmmakers, and audiences from across the world, placing Badagry firmly on the global creative map.
For more information:
📧 [email protected]
📱 WhatsApp: +234 809 345 6222
🌍 www.bifif.com
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