The Ibadan International Film Festival (IIFF) has intensified preparations for its landmark fifth edition with a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, reaffirming its commitment to cultural heritage, storytelling, and global creative exchange.
A delegation of the festival’s organisers, led by Convener Usman Olarotimi “Blackky” Ogunlade, paid a formal visit to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, to brief the revered monarch on plans for the forthcoming edition scheduled for September 2026.
The visit was aimed at seeking royal blessings and strengthening ties with Ibadan’s traditional institutions as part of the festival’s long-term growth strategy. Speaking during the engagement, Ogunlade highlighted the steady evolution of IIFF and its growing role in positioning Ibadan as an emerging hub for cinema, arts, and cultural dialogue.
He described the fifth edition as a major milestone, noting that IIFF 5.0 will place renewed emphasis on African narratives, youth development, cultural diplomacy, and international collaboration, while remaining firmly rooted in the city’s cultural heritage.
In his response, the Olubadan commended the organisers for their consistency and vision, describing the Ibadan International Film Festival as a laudable initiative that contributes meaningfully to cultural development. He assured the team of the palace’s readiness to support the festival and encouraged continuous engagement with the traditional institution whenever guidance or backing is required.
The monarch also revealed his personal passion for cinema, recalling his long-standing interest and involvement in filmmaking in Nigeria, and reiterated his commitment to supporting the festival as it prepares for its fifth edition.
Meanwhile, the Ibadan International Film Festival has announced the appointment of Aloba Iyore as its new Festival Director. Iyore succeeds Babatunde Ojobaro, popularly known as Mister Rain, who served in the role from 2022 to 2025 and played a key part in strengthening the festival’s structure, visibility, and industry credibility.
A filmmaker and production manager, Iyore is a founding member of the IIFF organising team and previously served for four years as Head of Branding, where he was instrumental in shaping the festival’s identity, public image, and audience engagement. His appointment signals continuity and a renewed strategic focus as the festival enters a new phase of development.
Describing the appointment, Convener Ogunlade said Iyore is a committed and visionary creative leader with a deep understanding of the festival’s mission to promote storytelling, creativity, and cultural exchange.
Also commenting, Head of Marketing and Communications, Femi Davies Alagbala, noted that the appointment represents both continuity and progress for the festival. He added that IIFF is focused on strengthening visibility, deepening partnerships, and expanding global participation ahead of the 2026 edition.
As part of preparations for IIFF 2026, the festival has officially opened film submissions to filmmakers from Nigeria, Africa, and around the world. The final deadline for submissions is 30 April 2026, with full guidelines available on the official website.
With strong traditional backing, renewed leadership, and growing international interest, the Ibadan International Film Festival continues to consolidate its position as a leading platform for African and global cinema, firmly anchored in the cultural heritage of Ibadan.