The curtain is set to rise on one of the most anticipated creative gatherings of the year as the International Students Film Festival (ISFF) 2025 Kicks off today November, Wednesday 19th, 2025, with 3-days of artistic brilliance, cultural immersion, and cinematic discovery.
This year’s edition carries the evocative theme, “LEGACY,” a tribute to the extraordinary journey of a man whose name has become synonymous with African storytelling on the world stage, Ambassador Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen. For three decades, Imasuen has carved unforgettable images into the soul of Nollywood, mentoring countless filmmakers and elevating indigenous narratives with unmatched passion.
Dedicated to the growth of young people, ISFF 2025 lights up the screen to honour the filmmaker who turned vision into heritage.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Nollywood’s creative energy, the festival promises an immersive blend of learning and celebration. Highlights include:
Master Classes where celebrated directors and industry experts pull back the curtain on their craft
Panel Discussions exploring the evolution of African cinema, the future of student filmmaking, and the enduring influence of Imasuen’s work
A Grand Awards Night, recognizing exceptional student filmmakers and distinguished Nigerians who continue to redefine creativity and innovation
Beyond its festivities, ISFF 2025 stands as a meeting point for the next generation, a space where young storytellers gather to learn, dream, and ignite possibilities. Each edition strengthens the bridge between the icons of today and the visionaries of tomorrow.
As the festival prepares to roll out its red carpet today, students from various African countries are already trooping in to Owerri for this historic celebration that will see the fusion and interactions between the old and the young in the industry.
A statement from Emmanuel Eyaba, Festival Director of ISFF said; “This event is a celebration of legacy, a salute to excellence, and a promise that the future of African cinema is bright, bold, and already unfolding.”
Lancelot is already on the ground in Owerri in celebration of his remarkable achievements in Nollywood and will be hosting distinguished guests like, Prof. BarkleyAyakoroma, Dr. Chika Onu, Prof. Ovunda ihonwu , and several other top professionals and educators that will all be in Owerri for the event. This year’s Jury is headed by Dr. Charles Okwuowulu with professor Gloria Ernest as the local organising committee chairman in addition to the able Head of department of the theatre art department Dr. Tony Ebirichukwu coordinating the entire project process,
Imo State University, Owerri is hosting the 3rd edition of ISFF, the event will also special recognition awards for some top Nollywood greats including kanayo O kanayo, vitalis Ndubisi, Nkiru Slyvanus, Eucharia Anunobi, Chief Imo, and lots more. Lancelot Imasuen will be impacting on the young aspiring films with a master class
Legacy is dedicated to the 30-year unbroken record of ambassador Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen in the Nollywood industry.
