The French Embassy in Nigeria has renewed its partnership with the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) for the fourth consecutive year, reinforcing the growing collaboration between the French and Nigerian film industries.
As part of this year’s festival, twelve French industry professionals have been invited to Lagos to participate in a high-level event designed to showcase French expertise in the audiovisual sector on one of Nollywood’s biggest platforms.
AFRIFF, a cornerstone of the African film landscape, will once again welcome French producers and distributors from across France. The partnership aims to foster opportunities for cooperation, promote high-quality French content, and introduce Nigerian producers and distributors to various tools and incentives for co-productions with France.
A major highlight of this year’s edition is the launch of the AFRIFF Film and Content Market (AFCM) — a dedicated marketplace for film and content exchange intended to boost buying, selling, and collaboration among filmmakers, distributors, and investors. The initiative marks a transformative step in positioning African cinema on the global stage.
The French delegation, made up of leading producers and distributors, will participate in workshops, conferences, and pitching sessions for films and TV series. They will help identify and mentor emerging Nigerian talent eager to explore international co-productions and aspire to feature at major global festivals such as Cannes.
According to Christophe Pécot, Audiovisual Attaché at the French Embassy in Nigeria, the partnership is central to the Embassy’s cultural diplomacy goals.
“Strengthening collaborations between Nollywood and the French film industry is one of the Embassy’s key priorities,” he said. “We already support Nigerian initiatives by inviting several Nigerian companies to major international festivals and markets such as MIPCOM in Cannes, Series Mania in Lille, and the Annecy International Animation Film Festival.”
He added that French film production thrives on international partnerships, particularly across Africa, reflecting France’s commitment to creative diversity.
Pécot further noted that bringing French professionals to Lagos forms part of a broader strategic plan by the Embassy to strengthen Nigeria’s Cultural and Creative Industries ecosystem and enhance stakeholder capacity.
Throughout the year, the French Embassy supports numerous initiatives — including professional workshops, networking events, and cultural exchanges between Nigeria and France — aimed at deepening the creative ties between both countries.
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