THE BAYELSA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (BIFF) will showcase more than 100 films. Twelve of the best will be entered in the competition. Selection will be based on films that best meets the selection criteria. Film submissions accepted from around the world, with concentration on creativity and new discoveries. There would also be musical performances, comedy and cultural performances, fashion night, master classes, Talent development and more.
Submissions start from 1st of November, 2025 for this fifth edition.
SELECTION CRITERIA
The world is blessed with rich culture and heritage worthy of celebration. Niger Delta and Nigeria as whole is also plagued by various social, economic, health, religious, immigration, and political issues that must be confronted. We therefore encourage the world to make films about the aforementioned issues; and our selection criteria will be based on the following:
Films that promote African culture.
Films that address issues affecting the world.
Films about history.
Films about historic landmarks.
Films made by Independent filmmakers.
Students/Experimental Films
ADDITIONAL SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
All submissions must be completed works from 2024 to 2026.
Foreign language (non-English) submissions must be available in their original language and soundtrack with English subtitles.
The Bayelsa International Film Festival (BIFF) reserves the right to determine eligibility of any work submitted.
It is highly advised that you test your work before submission in a standard player prior to submitting. Any unenviable file may be disqualified. The Festival may attempt, but is not obligated, to contact the applicant for a new copy.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
I, the authorized representative of the project being submitted (hereafter called the “Film”) acknowledge that I am duly authorized, on my own behalf and on behalf of all other persons or entities who have any ownership rights or interests in or relating to the Film (hereafter called the “Film’s Owners”) to submit to The Bayelsa International Film Festival (BIFF) I warrant and agree, on behalf of myself and each of the Film’s Owners, that the Film is being submitted voluntarily and without promise or inducement, and that the submission of the Film neither imposes nor creates any obligation or responsibility on the part of The Bayelsa International Film Festival (BIFF) , to accept the Film for inclusion in BIFF, to exhibit the Film at BIFF, to acknowledge the submission of the Film, or to return the submission copy of the Film or associated submission materials to me or others. I shall indemnify and hold harmless BIFF from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, and expenses (including but not limited to attorney’s fees, and costs of the court) which may be incurred by reason of any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits, publicity, screening, and loss of or damage to the screening videos entered. I have paid and will pay in full all license fees, clearance fees, and other obligations, of any kind, arising from or associated with the exhibition of the Film at or in connection with BIFF. I understand that BIFF reserves the right to waive or adjust any requirements outlined herein. I understand that I am not entitled to any refund or damage claims of any kind if my film is unable to screen due to technical or operational difficulties or if my film needs to be rescheduled, delayed, or removed from the program for any reason. By clicking “Submission Button” below I warrant that I have read, understood, and accept all aforementioned regulations and requirements pertaining to submission to The Bayelsa International Film Festival (BIFF ) and also grant permission to Bayelsa International Film Festival (BIFF) the rights to use clips of your film, poster and making images for promotional use.
You also agree that the decisions of the jury for this festival is final, and you cannot enter into litigation against the festival in whatsoever reason because your film wasn't selected or didn't win any prize. The festival does not pay rental/screening fees for submitted works.
