The National Orientation Agency NOA, has unveiled a new animation award as well as supporting the award with a total cash prize of N22,500,000.
The award was unveiled at the 9th Lagos International Festival of Animation, LIFANIMA.
The project is being implemented in partnership with LIFANIMA.
Speaking at the unveiling, the Director-General of National Orientation Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu said the project is a unique opportunity for the creative community to engage with the Nigerian Identity Project—an initiative of the NOA aimed at promoting the ideals captured in the National Values Charter (NVC).
According to him, “The NVC outlines seven national promises and seven citizen codes that define who we are, what we stand for, and the values that unite us as Nigerians. Through this award, we invite our animators to interpret these ideals and express them through the powerful art of storytelling and animation.”
Speaking further at the event, he revealed the theme for this year’s challenge as: “Who is a Real Nigerian?” a question which, according to him, goes beyond appearances or geography but invites reflection on the true spirit of the people – resilience, our optimism, our creativity, and our collective sense of responsibility.
To participate in the award, participants are required to create a three-minute maximum animated short film, using 2D, 3D, or stop-motion techniques, that creatively explores what it means to be a Real Nigerian. The focus is not on the form of animation, but on the strength of the narrative—the story that connects with our shared identity and national values.
“This competition is exclusive to Nigerians, 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. It is an open invitation to use your talent to inspire others and help shape the image of our nation through your craft,” says Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu.
According to Mallam Issa Onilu, the NOA Animation Award 2026 offers N10 million for the first prize, N7.5 million for the second, and N5 million for the third, making a total prize value of Twenty-Two Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N22,500,000).
