The Head of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and Africa Film and Content Market (AFCM), Chioma Ude, has been honoured by the Oman Film Society for her contributions to the global film industry.
Ude received the recognition at the recently concluded Dhofar International Film Festival in Oman, where she also served as Head of the Short Films Jury.
Her role at the festival drew on her experience in African cinema, film festivals, film markets, production and industry development.
Her participation also provided an opportunity for discussions on AFRIFF, AFCM, cultural exchange and bilateral collaboration between Nigeria, Oman and the wider African film industry.
The engagements focused on strengthening relationships among filmmakers, institutions and other industry professionals, while exploring opportunities in film exhibition, professional development, business, investment and co-production.
Ude’s relationship with the Oman Film Society dates back to last year when she met Ahmed Othman, an Omani film professional and member of the society.
Following their meeting, Ude invited Othman to Nigeria, where he served as a jury member at AFRIFF and AFCM in November 2025.
The visit subsequently led to Ude’s invitation to Oman to explore further opportunities for collaboration between the Nigerian and Omani film industries.
Speaking at the festival, Ude said her participation was driven by a desire to contribute to and learn from the emerging film ecosystem in Oman.
“I do not come here by chance. I actually came here as a challenge,” she said.
Reflecting on her experience as a jury member, Ude said the panel had watched a diverse selection of films and witnessed the dedication of the filmmakers.
“We worked very hard. We watched great films. Some of the films made us laugh so much… Some of them made us cry… But all in all, we realised the filmmakers worked even harder than we did,” she said.
During her visit, Ude also met Anwar bin Khamis Al Ruzaiqi, Chairman of the Oman Film Society, and Bushra Ahmed Razza, the Egyptian actress, singer and producer professionally known as Bushra.
The meetings formed part of broader discussions on the role of film festivals and markets in promoting content exhibition, professional development, business opportunities, investment, co-production and cultural exchange.
Ude’s recognition in Oman comes ahead of the 15th edition of AFRIFF, scheduled to take place from November 1 to 7, 2026, in Nigeria.
The accompanying AFCM will provide a market platform for business partnerships, content acquisition, investment and professional exchange within Africa’s film and television industry.
Her participation and recognition at the Dhofar International Film Festival further underscore ongoing efforts to strengthen professional and cultural connections between African filmmakers and their counterparts in international film markets.
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