Nigeria’s Actors Guild Plans Africa’s First Children’s Film Festival

The Actors Guild of Nigeria appealed for support to launch the African Children’s Film Festival in 2026, aiming to cultivate the next generation of African filmmakers. The festival, unveiled in Abuja, will provide a platform for children aged five to 18 of African heritage to develop filmmaking skills and express their creativity. Organizers envision the festival as a means to promote authentic African culture and values, countering the influence of foreign content popular on social media.

The initiative will focus on mentorship, workshops, and masterclasses, prioritizing creative development over commercial gain. Festival organizers want to shift the narrative around African children, positioning them as storytellers and creators, not just consumers of media.

Registration for the festival will be free to maximize participation from across Africa and its diaspora. The festival aligns with Nigeria’s broader efforts to strengthen its creative economy and leverage Nollywood’s significant production volume.