The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy has officially endorsed the 2024 edition of the Lagos International Festival of Animation (LIFANIMA), marking a significant endorsement for Nigeria’s rapidly growing animation sector. As one of Africa’s most prominent animation festivals, LIFANIMA has become a key driver in advancing the country’s creative industry on the global stage.

Now in its seventh edition, LIFANIMA has been instrumental in strengthening Nigeria’s animation landscape by promoting local talent and integrating animated content into the mainstream film industry. Organized by Mr. Muyiwa Kayode of USP Brand Management, the festival showcases the best in Nigerian storytelling through animation while offering animators the chance to enhance their skills in workshops that explore cutting-edge animation technologies. LIFANIMA’s dynamic programming not only boosts local talent but also draws international attention, positioning Nigeria as a growing hub for animation and promoting cultural tourism.

The Ministry’s collaboration with LIFANIMA began in early 2024, following key discussions at the Omniverse Summit and joint initiatives at the Annecy Animation Festival in France. These engagements led to the festival’s integration into the Ministry’s Creative Leap Acceleration Programme (CLAP), aimed at boosting the animation sector’s capacity and preparing Nigerian creatives for the expanding global animation market, which is expected to reach nearly $600 billion by 2030.

By endorsing LIFANIMA 2024, the Ministry reinforces its commitment to empowering young Nigerian creatives with the skills and exposure needed to compete globally. This partnership not only amplifies local animation talent but also aligns with the Ministry’s broader vision of leveraging the creative economy for national development and cultural preservation.

As LIFANIMA continues to grow, the Ministry anticipates that the 2024 festival will further spotlight Nigeria’s creative excellence, foster new international partnerships, and catalyze the next phase of growth for the country’s vibrant animation industry