Abuja Film Festival To Spotlight AI Ethics, Forge Nollywood-China Partnership
The 23rd Abuja International Film Festival (AIFF) is set to ignite global conversations on artificial intelligence, filmmaking ethics and the future of cinema as filmmakers, technology experts and international industry stakeholders converge in Nigeria’s capital.
The festival, themed “Frames Without Borders: AI, Ethics, and the Future of Filmmaking,” is scheduled to run from October 20 to 25, 2026, with a packed programme of film screenings, masterclasses, panel discussions and international networking opportunities.
Founder of the festival, Fidelis Duker, said the theme reflects the need for the film industry to confront the ethical challenges posed by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence while preserving the human creativity at the heart of storytelling.
Duker noted that AI should empower filmmakers rather than undermine the artistic essence of their craft, describing the festival as a platform for shaping the future of cinema.
A major highlight of this year’s edition is the participation of a 10-member diplomatic and industry delegation from the China Film Administration, led by its chairman, Mr Bia.
The delegation’s visit is expected to strengthen bilateral relations between Nollywood and China’s film industry, with discussions focusing on international co-productions, cross-border film distribution and opportunities for filmmakers to access new markets.
Festival Director, Temitope Duker, described the partnership as a significant opportunity to connect Nollywood’s storytelling strengths with China’s extensive film market and distribution networks.
She expressed optimism that the engagement would create practical opportunities for Nigerian filmmakers to expand their international reach and establish stronger industry collaborations.
Beyond the international partnership, AIFF 2026 will provide a platform for examining how artificial intelligence is transforming film production, creative expression and professional ethics.
The organisers have announced free public admission to the festival’s main attractions, including all-day screenings of selected Nigerian and international films, alongside masterclasses and panel discussions featuring industry professionals.
Activities scheduled from October 20 to 24 will take place at Silverbird Cinemas CBD, Abuja. However, the opening ceremony on October 20 will be an exclusive, invitation-only event.
The festival will conclude with its awards night on Sunday, October 25, at the Banquet Hall of National Merit House, Maitama, Abuja, where outstanding filmmakers, creative talents and innovative productions will be recognised.
Anchored on the pillars of Film, People, Ideas and Opportunities, the 23rd Abuja International Film Festival is positioning itself as a meeting point for cultural exchange, technological innovation and global collaboration.
With artificial intelligence increasingly reshaping the creative industries, the festival is expected to offer filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts an opportunity to examine emerging challenges while exploring new possibilities for storytelling and international cooperation.
