National Orientation Agency launches N22.5m Animation Award with LIFANIMA to promote Nigerian identity and national values through storytelling
National Orientation Agency has made a powerful statement of support for Nigeria’s creative sector with the unveiling of its new N22.5 million Animation Award.
The announcement took place at the 9th Lagos International Festival of Animation (LIFANIMA) on Thursday, 9 October 2025.
The initiative, implemented in partnership with LIFANIMA, seeks to engage Nigerian animators in promoting the ideals of the National Values Charter through storytelling and artistic expression.
Speaking at the unveiling, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, described the award as a unique opportunity for the creative community to explore the Nigerian Identity Project, an initiative that celebrates national values and shared identity.
According to him, the National Values Charter captures seven national promises and seven citizen codes that define the essence of the Nigerian spirit.
He noted that the competition will allow animators to creatively interpret these ideals through short films that reflect unity, resilience, and optimism.
He further announced the theme of the 2026 challenge as “Who is a Real Nigerian?” which he said transcends appearances or geography and instead challenges creators to depict the true essence of the nation’s people and values.
Participants are required to create a three-minute animated short film using 2D, 3D, or stop-motion techniques. The emphasis, Issa-Onilu said, is not on the animation format but on the power of the story and how it connects with Nigeria’s collective identity.
“This competition is exclusive to Nigerians,” he emphasised. “It is designed to empower local creators and strengthen national pride.
Whether you are an individual animator, a small studio, or a creative company, this platform belongs to you. Use your talent to inspire others and shape how the world sees our nation.”
The National Orientation Agency Animation Award 2026 carries a total prize value of N22.5 million, with N10 million for the first prize, N7.5 million for the second, and N5 million for the third.
Beyond the cash rewards, winning films will receive nationwide exposure across all NOA partner networks and major television platforms for three months following the LIFANIMA 2026 Awards Night.
All entries will be submitted online through FilmFreeway (http://www.filmfreeway.com/lifanima), following the standard LIFANIMA submission process.
Submissions will open in January 2026 and close in June, aligning with the festival’s regular schedule.
This initiative by the National Orientation Agency represents a dynamic fusion of creativity, national pride, and storytelling power.
Also read: National orientation agency clarifies anthem protocol
It positions Nigerian animators to use their craft in redefining and celebrating the country’s shared identity.
Watch the announcement here:
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
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