L-R: Cromwell Chukwu, BOT member, Rivers International Film Festival, Kate Ezegbo, CEO, and Ken Osunwa, AGN State Chairman
Over 272 films from filmmakers from 65 countries across the world have so far been submitted as entries for the 2025 edition of the Rivers International Film Festival (RIFF).
A total of 70 films out of the 272 are from filmmakers from Europe and other continents, with Africa dominating the list of films participating in the festival held in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, from October 30 to November 2, 2025.
Kate Ezegbo, CEO and Festival Director of RIFF, while addressing a pre-festival press conference in Port Harcourt on October 23, 2025, said the festival has 28 films to be screened in different categories.
He said the Rivers International Film Festival, which is in its third edition, has gained popularity across Africa and this year received entries from Zimbabwe, Ghana and others.
Ezegbo said RIFF, organized annually by Desgol Entertainment Worldwide, is “a celebration of unique storytelling, creativity and innovation, designed to highlight the roots and resilience of indigenous cultures across Africa by exploring their strengths through filmmaking.
Rivers International Film Festival (RIFF) is a cinematic showcase dedicated to promoting indigenous socio-cultural heritage and values through artistic talent and visual enjoyment, thereby creating a platform to foster collaboration across the creative ecosystem.
“Since its inception, RIFF has created a dynamic platform for producers, actors, directors, students and industry professionals to connect, learn and celebrate artistic excellence.
“RIFF's commitment goes beyond film; it is about building a creative bridge between culture, tourism, technology and innovation, with the patients participating positioning Rivers State as a hub of talent discovery and opportunities,” he said.
Highlighting the impact of the festival, Ezegbo said, “For years, RIFF has empowered emerging creatives through training, exposure and partnerships that open up real opportunities in the entertainment industry.
“Our festival continues to foster innovation, inspire unique storytelling and boost the creative economy in Rivers State and beyond.
“Additionally, under the RIFF Free Medical Initiative, we gave back to the society through free medical diagnosis and medicine administration to around 1000 individuals in 2024. The second edition also saw 25 surgeries and 300 medicated glasses handed out, all done at zero cost (no financial expenditure involved) to the participating patients,” he said.
Festival Coordinator and Rivers State Chairman, Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Ken Osunwa, said the theme of this year’s festival: ‘Roots and Resilience: Exploring the Strength and Resilience of Indigenous Cultures’, reflects the importance RIFF attaches to indigenous cultures and its expression in the survival of the people. Is.
Noting that this year’s Festival is a marked improvement over previous editions, he said RIFF has huge potential for Rivers State and Niger Delta in economic development, job creation and global promotion of our cultural heritage.
According to festival organisers, over 1,000 visitors including filmmakers, students, investors and media professionals are expected to watch the screening of films from October 30 to November 2 at the Downtown Cinema in Port Harcourt.
The objectives of the 2025 edition of RIFF include: “Explore the strengths and enduring legacy of our indigenous cultures through authentic narratives that reflect our realities and dreams.
“Foster collaboration and innovation across the film, digital media and cultural industries. Empower young filmmakers with exposure, mentorship and practical opportunities.”
“Strengthen the creative economy in Rivers State through film tourism and investment and celebrate diversity by bringing together talent from Nigeria and around the world.”
