Royal Endorsement for Bayelsa International Film Festival as HRM Bubaraye Dakolo Accepts Role as Royal Father

The Bayelsa International Film Festival (BIFF) has received a significant royal endorsement as His Royal Majesty, Bubaraye Dakolo, Agada IV, Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, has graciously accepted to serve as the Royal Father of the Festival.

The announcement came when the festival organisers, led by the convener and team members, paid the revered monarch a courtesy visit at his office in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.

Speaking during the visit, the organisers outlined the vision of BIFF as not just a film festival but a cultural renaissance that places Bayelsa on the global creative map. They noted that the festival is dedicated to showcasing indigenous stories, promoting African heritage, and giving young creatives a platform to reach the world stage.

In his response, HRM Bubaraye Dakolo commended the organisers for their foresight and expressed delight at the initiative. He emphasized the importance of film as a medium of cultural preservation, education, and global influence. According to him, the festival represents a golden opportunity to project the rich traditions and talents of the Ijaw nation to the world.

The monarch further assured the organisers of his full support and pledged to use his influence to ensure the festival grows into one of the most recognized cultural and creative gatherings on the African continent. In a powerful show of commitment, His Royal Majesty promised to personally attend the 5th edition of the Bayelsa International Film Festival, describing it as a milestone worth celebrating.

“The Bayelsa International Film Festival is a noble idea that must be supported,” HRM Dakolo stated. “I look forward to being physically present at this 5th edition, to witness firsthand the creativity, culture, and innovation that this festival is bringing to our land.”

The organisers, visibly elated, expressed gratitude for the monarch’s acceptance, noting that his endorsement as Royal Father and his promise of attendance will add immense value, cultural pride, and credibility to the festival. They stressed that the festival will not only screen world-class films but also feature masterclasses, cultural performances, music, fashion, and award ceremonies aimed at celebrating excellence in the creative industry.

Now in its fifth edition, the Bayelsa International Film Festival (BIFF) continues to attract filmmakers, industry stakeholders, and audiences from across the globe. With the endorsement and active participation of HRM Bubaraye Dakolo, the festival is poised to reach even greater heights of cultural relevance and international recognition.