Festival start: 26 November 2026
Festival end: 28 November 2026
ImoIFF Creatives & Film Festival is a platform for films and filmmakers around the world that inspires the love for film, cinema, and the arts; and supports independent filmmakers. The festival is created to promote the local film industry both locally and internationally and to bring all the industry stakeholders together in a more focused and structured environment.
At ImoIFF, filmmakers are going to be seen, supported, and celebrated. The festival contributes towards the development of films in Imo State by showcasing the best film on the continent and worldwide. The goal of the festival is not only to celebrate arts but also to create an incubation space to encourage and grow young people in film and art, especially in the State. They do this by establishing systems through which continuing film education is sustained.
ImoIFF aspires to bridge the gap between Imo State filmmakers, Cinemas and the World, providing the best global film knowledge, skill acquisition, training, and global film distribution opportunities for independent and aspiring filmmakers. The festival is run by young people, for young people, and aims to celebrate the next generation of Film and TV talent and increase access for under-represented people to careers in the media. The festival creates a lucrative industry economically and socially to preserve our national values through film.
The festival also boasts a distinguished jury panel comprising luminaries from the global film community, including Kayode Kasum, Linda Obasi, Goodnews Erico, Ozioma Nwughalu, and Art Arutyunyan.
ImoIFF’s advisory board includes Dr. Victor Okhai, Queen B. Ebigieson, Okey Ogunjiofor, Dr. Chika Onu, Chris Odeh, Amayo Uzo Phillip, Osita Iheme, Dr. Gloria Ernest Samuel, Dr. Ken Obiakor, and Obinna Okerekeocha
Best Short Film
Best Documentary
Best Feature
Best International Film
Best Actor
Best Actor (female)
Best Film Student
Content Creator of the Year Award
Music Video Director of the Year Award
Music Video of the Year Award
Achievement in Directing
Achievement in Editing
Achievement in Cinematography
Achievement in Screenplay
Achievement in Sound Design
ImoIFF Creatives & Film Festival (ImoIFF) - Submission Terms and Conditions
By submitting your film to the ImoIFF Creatives & Film Festival (ImoIFF), you agree to the following terms and conditions:
Rights and Permissions:
You grant ImoIFF and its promoter, JULOB, a non-exclusive license to use your name, photograph, logo, and likeness for publicity and promotional activities related to the festival.
You confirm that you are the film's author and the sole and exclusive owner of all rights.
You affirm that the film is not under option, has not been purchased by a third party, and is free from ownership disputes.
You confirm that no third-party permissions are required for the film's screening at ImoIFF.
Festival Decisions and Liability:
The jury's decisions are final and binding.
Judges are not obligated to provide feedback.
You agree not to pursue litigation against ImoIFF regarding film selection or awards.
Screening and Regulations:
You grant ImoIFF permission to screen the film during the festival and related promotional events.
ImoIFF reserves the right to determine screening locations and times.
ImoIFF may exclude films that do not align with the festival's aims or that may offend national sensitivities.
Failure to adhere to festival rules and technical requirements may result in disqualification.
Submission Criteria:
Films must have been produced within the past two years.
Submission via Festhome constitutes acceptance of these terms.
Feature films must provide a list of main cast and crew contacts.
Film Eligibility:
Short films: Up to 30 minutes.
Feature films: 60+ minutes.
Documentary films: 5-60 minutes.
Student films (undergraduate and below).
Additional Regulations:
Participation implies acceptance of all rules and regulations.
Selected films may be screened or broadcasted at ImoIFF's discretion.
Films previously submitted to other festivals are eligible.
Films in indigenous languages must have English subtitles.
Winners outside of Nigeria will be responsible for shipping cost of awards.
Film Submission Formats:
Delivery Format:
Festhome.
Please notify ImoIFF of any changes to URLs or passwords.
Physical copies are not required when submitting a URL.
Technical Specifications:
Video: .mp4/.m4v/DCP; MJPEG, Apple ProRes, H.264; 1920x1080px or higher.
Audio: 48 kHz PCM, MP3, AAC.
Files: Multiplexed (audio, video, subtitles in one file); maximum 4GB.
A digital copy must be provided for archiving, screening, and judging.
Films must be thoroughly tested before submission.
Trailers and work-in-progress films are not accepted.
Return of Materials:
Submitted materials will not be returned and will be stored in the ImoIFF archives.
Selection and Publicity:
Selected filmmakers must provide publicity materials (biography, trailers, images, posters, electronic press kit) at their expense.
ImoIFF has sole discretion over screening schedules.
Film Categories:
National/Local Films:
Documentaries
Short Films
Student Films (Undergraduate and Below)
Feature Films
TV series.
Animations.
International Feature Films:
Must have English subtitles.
Local Films:
Must have English subtitles if not in English.
Best International Short Film (Narrative)
Short Films >1' 30'<
Fee-8%
PRO 23%
Early5$4.6$
3.85$
31 May 26
Standard7$6.44$
5.39$
31 Jul 26
Late10$9.2$
7.7$
31 Aug 26
Extended15.5$14.26$
11.94$
24 Oct 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
24 Oct 26
Save up
1.15$
Submit
The Best International Short Film (Narrative) award celebrates compact yet extraordinary storytelling that takes audiences on thrilling emotional journeys, showcasing the brilliance of concise cinematic artistry.
Best International Experimental Film
Feature Films >60' 150'<
Fee-8%
PRO 23%
Early5$4.6$
3.85$
31 May 26
Standard6$5.52$
4.62$
31 Jul 26
Late6$5.52$
4.62$
31 Aug 26
Extended8$7.36$
6.16$
24 Oct 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
24 Oct 26
Save up
1.15$
Submit
Pushing boundaries and redefining art, the Best International Experimental Film award recognizes avant-garde works that challenge conventions and explore uncharted realms of cinematic expression, daring to be different.
Best International Feature Film (Narrative)
Feature Films >60' 150'<
Fee-8%
PRO 23%
Early5$4.6$
3.85$
31 May 26
Standard8$7.36$
6.16$
31 Jul 26
Late15$13.8$
11.55$
31 Aug 26
Extended18$16.56$
13.86$
24 Oct 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
24 Oct 26
Save up
1.15$
Submit
Celebrate the pinnacle of storytelling with the Best International Feature Film (Narrative) award. Honoring cinematic masterpieces that captivate global audiences with compelling narratives, unforgettable characters, and outstanding artistry.
Best Student Film
Short and Feature Films
Fee-8%
PRO 23%
Early5$4.6$
3.85$
31 May 26
Standard7$6.44$
5.39$
31 Jul 26
Late9$8.28$
6.93$
31 Aug 26
Extended12$11.04$
9.24$
24 Oct 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
24 Oct 26
Save up
1.15$
Submit
Shining a spotlight on the future of filmmaking, the Best Student Film award honors emerging talents who demonstrate remarkable creativity, skill, and innovation while capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide.
Best International Feature Film (Documentary)
Short and Feature Films >5' 60'<
Fee-8%
PRO 23%
Early6$5.52$
4.62$
31 May 26
Standard7$6.44$
5.39$
31 Jul 26
Late8$7.36$
6.16$
31 Aug 26
Extended9$8.28$
6.93$
24 Oct 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
24 Oct 26
Save up
1.38$
Submit
Spotlighting truth through the lens of creativity, the Best International Feature Film (Documentary) award recognizes powerful documentaries that challenge perspectives, inspire change, and bring untold stories to life on a global scale.
Imo International Film Festival Award (NATIONAL)
Short and Feature Films
Fee-8%
PRO 23%
Early0$0$
0$
31 May 26
Standard5$4.6$
3.85$
31 Jul 26
Late7$6.44$
5.39$
31 Aug 26
Extended8$7.36$
6.16$
24 Oct 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
24 Oct 26
Save up
0$
Submit
The ImoIFF Award (NATIONAL) honors outstanding Nigerian filmmakers whose works resonate deeply within the nation’s cultural fabric. Authenticity, narrative impact, cinematic craftsmanship, and social relevance are the judging criteria. As the festival screens these remarkable films, it weaves a rich tapestry of Nollywood brilliance. Join us in applauding the storytellers who breathe life into Nigeria’s cinematic dreams.
Best International Short Film (Documentary)
Short Films >1' 30'<
Fee-8%
PRO 23%
Early5$4.6$
3.85$
31 May 26
Standard6$5.52$
4.62$
31 Jul 26
Late6.9$6.35$
5.31$
31 Aug 26
Extended8.5$7.82$
6.55$
24 Oct 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
24 Oct 26
Save up
1.15$
Submit
Incredible stories in smaller packages! The Best International Short Film (Documentary) award applauds impactful documentaries that deliver thought-provoking and transformative experiences in less time, proving that every second counts.
Best Global Story Award
Feature Films >60'
Fee-8%
PRO 23%
Early5$4.6$
3.85$
31 May 26
Standard6$5.52$
4.62$
31 Jul 26
Late6.9$6.35$
5.31$
31 Aug 26
Extended8.5$7.82$
6.55$
24 Oct 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
24 Oct 26
Save up
1.15$
Submit
The Best Global Story Awards celebrate narratives that transcend borders and cultures. These films evoke universal themes, capturing authenticity and emotional impact. The judging criteria include narrative depth, craftsmanship, and genuine portrayal. As the festival screens diverse entries, it weaves a rich tapestry of global cinema, reminding us of our shared humanity. Whether it’s a poignant drama from Brazil, a whimsical animation from India, or a gripping documentary from South Africa, each entry contributes to the rich tapestry of global cinema. Whether set against the bustling streets of Tokyo, the serene landscapes of Iceland, or the vibrant markets of Lagos, these stories invite us to step into the shoes of characters whose struggles and triumphs mirror our own.
Content Creator of the Year Award
Short and Feature Films
Fee-8%
PRO 23%
Early8$7.36$
6.16$
31 May 26
Standard10$9.2$
7.7$
31 Jul 26
Late12$11.04$
9.24$
31 Aug 26
Extended15$13.8$
11.55$
24 Oct 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
24 Oct 26
Save up
1.84$
Submit
Are you a digital storyteller making waves online? This award recognizes outstanding individual content creators who demonstrate innovation, engagement, and excellence across digital platforms. Show us your unique voice and groundbreaking content – from short-form narratives to innovative series. Your audience is waiting, and so is IMOIFF 2026!
Music Video of the Year Award
Short Films 30'<
Fee-8%
PRO 23%
Early8$7.36$
6.16$
31 May 26
Standard10$9.2$
7.7$
31 Jul 26
Late12$11.04$
9.24$
31 Aug 26
Extended15$13.8$
11.55$
24 Oct 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
24 Oct 26
Save up
1.84$
Submit
Celebrate the visual artistry that elevates sound! This award honors the most creative, impactful, and technically excellent music videos that push boundaries and captivate audiences. Submit your best work and let your visual symphony shine at IMOIFF 2026!
ImoIFF Award (INTERNATIONAL)
Short and Feature Films
Fee-8%
PRO 23%
Early5$4.6$
3.85$
31 May 26
Standard7$6.44$
5.39$
31 Jul 26
Late7.9$7.27$
6.08$
31 Aug 26
Extended9.9$9.11$
7.62$
24 Oct 26
Get an Annual Pass and get the maximum discount on festival and submission fees
Submissions deadline
24 Oct 26
Save up
1.15$
Submit
The Imo International Film Festival ImoIFF Award (INTERNATIONAL) celebrates cinematic excellence beyond borders. Filmmakers from diverse cultures converge, weaving narratives that transcend continents. Authenticity, global impact, and artistic craftsmanship define this category. As the festival screens these remarkable films, we honor the universal language of cinema. Join us in celebrating the storytellers who bridge cultures and ignite imaginations. Best Foreign Short Film Best Documentary Best Feature Best Animation Best International Film Best Actor Best Actor (female) Best Film Student
Festhome holds accountable fees festivals by holding the payment of the fees of most newer festivals until they have viewed the submissions, held their festivals and other methods.
-8%
Festhome holds accountable fees festivals by holding the payment of the fees of most newer festivals until they have viewed the submissions, held their festivals and other methods. 