According to Awhanse, the second edition of the Badagry International Film Festival is scheduled to hold from 13th to 16th Novermebr at the Lagos Theatres, Badagry. This International partnership aims to attract tourists, build lasting relationships, and boost the economy.
BIFIF is a prestigious annual event held in Badagry, Lagos-Nigeria, that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the region through film screenings, cultural performances, and sports competitions. The festival aims to promote tourism, foster creativity, and strengthen community bonds. He said
Awhanse noted that the Festival has received great recognition and endorsement from the Lagos State Government, under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture led by Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture and Idris Aregbe, S.A on Tourism, Art and Culture as well as notable offices such as the Member House of Assembly and Chairman House Committee on Tourism, Hon. Bonu Solomon Saanu.
Speaking, BIFIF’s creative director and producer, Ororo Pataya, emphasized that their primary objective is to connect Africa through film and tourism, promoting unity and celebrating African stories.
The festival’s theme, “Roots & Routes,” highlights the historical connection between Benin and Badagry as key routes into Nigeria. This collaboration seeks to promote unity among Africans and beyond, leveraging the shared heritage and cultural similarities between the two nations.
Mawuyon Ogun, BIFIF media director and actress, highlighted the festival’s global appeal. “We’ve received international support, but our bond with Benin is unique. We’re strengthening ties and celebrating our shared identity.”
Solomon Zosu, SSA on Information, Tourism and Special Works for Badagry West LCDA, welcomed the partnership, acknowledging the council’s cordial relationship with Benin Republic. He further appealed to Mr. Zossou to give every necessary support to the team.
The team extends an invitation to Benin’s youth to participate in the festival, fostering a sense of unity and shared identity.
Responding, ZOSSOU assured the BIFIF team of Benin’s support and attendance, emphasizing that despite border divisions, their cultural bonds remain strong. “We speak the same language, share the same heritage, and have many commonalities; we are one and will not allow borders to divide us.”
This partnership promises to promote cultural exchange and understanding, foster unity among African nations, boost tourism and economic growth, and provide a platform for youth development and empowerment.
Badagry Parrot News reports that this partnership solidifies BIFIF’s position as a premier cultural event in West Africa, promoting cultural exchange, unity, and economic growth between Benin and Nigeria.
Some of the notable stakehoders that has endorsed the festival includes Hon. Sesi Whigan, MHR Badagry, Hon. Engr. Setonji David, Chief Whip, LAHA, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Commissioner for Youths, Lagos State, Hon. Ibrahim Layode, Commissioner for Home Affairs, Chief Akinsanya Sunny Ajose, Apex Leader Badagry Federation and our respected Kings, HRM Aholu Menu Toyi I, Akran of Badagry Kingdom & HRM Aholu of Kweme Kingdom.
Others includes the three local government chairmen, Hon. Onilude Adeniran – Badagry Central, Hon. Gbenu Joseph – Badagry West LCDA and Hon. Olatunde Samson – Olorunda LCDA
Compiled by :
BIFIF MEDIA TEAM.
