Linda Osifo Nominated as ‘Idia’ Lands Four TINFF 2026 Nods

Edo-set mythological thriller ‘Idia’ has earned four nominations at the 2026 Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF), including Best Thriller/Horror Film, Best African Film, and a Best Actress nomination for Linda Osifo.

The film, which was released in cinemas on October 24, 2025, marks a notable festival milestone following its theatrical run across West Africa. Produced by Jasper Aziegbemhin and co-directed by Ese Ariremu and Jide ‘J Blaze’ Oyegbile, IDIA is a Golden Mhinutes Pictures production distributed by Silverbird Film Distribution.

Aziegbemhin described the recognition as a reflection of the effort behind bringing a culturally rooted horror story to screen. “There are countless moments of uncertainty, sacrifice, sleepless nights, and quiet prayers that no one ever sees,” he said. “Moments like this remind you why you keep believing.”

Osifo’s nomination highlights what the filmmaker describes as one of the film’s most striking performances. Playing the character “Rose”, Aziegbemhin noted that her portrayal blends “stealth and malevolence”, adding that the performance has continued to linger with audiences beyond its cinema run.

The nominations also recognise a wider ensemble that includes Gbubemi Ejeye, Mercy Aigbe, Tope Tedela, Temitope Aje, Adeola Awodein, and Lancelot Imasuen, alongside the film’s crew and its cultural grounding in Edo storytelling.

At its Lagos premiere, the filmmakers called ‘Idia’ a departure from conventional horror tropes, opting instead for a more psychological and culturally specific approach. “The scariest part about Idia is that we hinged on realism,” Aziegbemhin said. “Desire is something that is so normal and relatable, but we twisted it into something that could…