By Benjamin Njoku

Owerri, the Imo State capital, will come alive from July 23 to 25, 2026, as filmmakers from 24 countries, film enthusiasts, actors, and directors converge for the 2nd edition of the Imo International Film Festival, IIFF.

The 3-day festival, set to hold at Havana Cinemas, New Owerri, will open with a screening of Nigerian film “Greatest Oath” produced by Ocean Portal Entertainment. The opening film sets the tone for what organizers say will be “the movie event of the year” in Nigeria.

Festival Director Donatus Nkem Chikezie, aka Donkems, says this year’s edition is bigger and bolder. Activities include film screenings, panel discussions with industry leaders, talent showcases, and networking sessions connecting young creatives with investors and established professionals. Delegates will also tour key Imo landmarks, including the iconic Oguta Lake.

“IIFF exists to tell our stories, empower our youth, and grow Imo’s creative economy,” Donkems said. “This year, we’re going bigger and we want the whole state to be part of it.”

Film screenings will run at Havana Cinemas, New Owerri, while the festival gala and awards night will be held at Golden Vesta Hotels, Owerri.

Donkems also revealed that the festival will host participants from 24 countries, with acclaimed filmmaker Amayo Uzo Philip serving as Head of Jury.

Since its debut, IIFF has positioned itself as a rallying point for Nigerian filmmakers and a catalyst for growing Owerri as a film hub.