The National Orientation Agency (NOA), in partnership with the Lagos International Festival of Animation (LIFANIMA), has officially announced the opening of entries for the NOA Animation Challenge 2026. The competition invites Nigerian animators to creatively interpret the theme “Who Is a Real Nigerian?” through animation that reflects national identity, culture, and values.
According to the organizers, the challenge aims to promote the Nigerian Identity Project, a national initiative designed to strengthen unity and patriotism. The project is based on the Nigerian Values Charter (NVC), which outlines seven promises of the nation and seven citizen codes that define the responsibilities of all Nigerians. The NOA stated that “this initiative reinforces the synergy between governance and creativity, empowering local talent to tell stories that reflect Nigeria’s identity, culture, and values.”
Animators are required to produce original short films lasting no longer than three minutes. Accepted formats include 2D, 3D, and stop motion animation styles. Each entry must also include the creator’s profile. Winners will share a total prize of 22.5 million naira, with ₦10 million awarded to the first-place winner, ₦7.5 million to the second, and ₦5 million to the third. In addition, all winning entries will air on national television for three months, giving participants valuable exposure in Nigeria’s growing animation industry.
Participation in the NOA Animation Challenge 2026 is open exclusively to Nigerian citizens, including individual animators and studios. “Exclusive to Nigerians only,” the agency emphasized, noting that the challenge seeks to inspire creators to embrace the Nigerian identity through digital art and storytelling.
Entries are to be submitted via FilmFreeway at filmfreeway.com/lifanima, following the standard LIFANIMA submission process. The deadline for submission is June 2026.