272 films, 65 countries queue for Rivers International Film Festival

Over 272 films, from filmmakers in 65 countries of the world, have so far been submitted as entries for the 2025 edition of the Rivers International Film Festival (RIFF).

A total of 70 films, out of the 272, are from filmmakers in Europe and other continents, with Africa dominating the list of films participating in the festival, held in the Rivers State capital, Port Harcourt, from October 30 to November 2, 2025.

Kate Ezeigbo, CEO and Festival Director of the RIFF, addressing a pre-festival press conference in Port Harcourt on October 23, 2025, said 28 films are up for screening in different categories of the festival.

She said the Rivers International Film Festival, which is in its third edition, has gained traction across Africa, receiving entries from Zimbabwe, Ghana and others this year.

Ezeigbo said RIFF, organised yearly by Desgol Entertainment Worldwide, “is a celebration of unique storytelling, creativity, and innovation designed to spotlight the roots and resilience of indigenous cultures across Africa by exploring her strength through filmmaking.

The Rivers International Film Festival (RIFF) is a cinematic showcase dedicated to promoting indigenous sociocultural heritage and values through artistic brilliance and visual delight, thereby creating platforms to foster collaboration across the creative ecosystem.

“Since inception, RIFF has created a dynamic platform for producers, actors, directors, students, and industry professionals to connect, learn, and celebrate artistic excellence.

“RIFF’s commitment goes beyond film; it’s about building a creative bridge between culture, tourism, technology, and innovation, participating patients positioning Rivers State as a hub for talent hunts and opportunities,” she said.

Ezeigbo, while highlighting the festival’s impact, said, “Over the years, RIFF has empowered emerging creatives through training, exposure, and partnerships that open real opportunities in the entertainment industry.

“Our festival continues to drive innovation, inspire unique storytelling, and promote the creative economy in Rivers State and beyond.

“Additionally, under the RIFF Free Medicals Initiative, we gave back to society through free medical diagnosis and drug administration to about 1000 persons in 2024. The 2nd edition also witnessed 25 surgeries and handover of 300 medicated eyeglasses, all at zero cost (no financial expense involved) of the participating patients,” she said.

Ken Osunwa, Festival Coordinator and Rivers State chairman of the Actors’ Guild of Nigeria (AGN), said the theme of this year’s festival: ‘Roots and Resilience: Exploring the Strength and Resilience of Indigenous Cultures,’ captures the importance RIFF attaches to indigenous cultures and the expression of such in a people’s existence.

He said this year’s festival is a marked improvement from previous editions, adding that RIFF holds enormous potential for economic growth for Rivers State and the Niger Delta, job creation and global promotion of our cultural heritage.

According to organisers of the festival, over 1,000 audience members, including filmmakers, students, investors, and media professionals, are expected to view the films screening from October 30 to November 2 at the Downtown Cinema in Port Harcourt.

Objectives for the 2025 edition of RIFF include: “Explore the strength and enduring legacies of our indigenous cultures through authentic narratives that reflect our realities and dreams.

“Promote collaboration and innovation across film, digital media, and cultural industries. Empower young filmmakers with exposure, mentorship, and practical opportunities.

“Strengthen the creative economy in Rivers State through film tourism and investment and celebrate diversity by bringing together talents from across Nigeria and the world.”