Edo State International Film Festival (ESIFF) gears up for its second edition from November 30 to December 2, 2023, in Benin City. The festival, which attracted over 3,000 film submissions from 80+ countries, has curated a selection of 486 films.

Building on the success of its debut in 2022, ESIFF 2023 promises to be a vibrant celebration of diverse global voices and narratives. Festival Director, Violet Okosun, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, ESIFF continues to be a beacon for filmmakers globally.

In addition to film screenings, ESIFF 2023 will feature master classes and panel sessions covering various aspects of filmmaking. Attendees can look forward to expert-led sessions on Cinematography, Screenwriting, the Business of Acting, and Documentary Filmmaking.

Key government stakeholders, including Governor Godwin Obaseki and Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Tourism Uyi Odua Malaka, will participate in panel sessions.

Renowned film executives, such as Mary Njoku, Nnaeto Orazulike, and Trevor Pillay, will contribute insights, making ESIFF 2023 a hub for learning and networking.

Governor Obaseki expressed excitement about the festival and Edo States growing film industry, emphasizing the governments commitment to developing the region as a film production hub. He said,

The strategy is to make sure we develop Edo as a hub for production by making it easy for producers to come and work there “ make it more convenient and cost-effective. What do you need as a producer? You need talent and to be able to manage your costs, (The Guardian)