Arewa International Film Festival earns FG support to boost youth empowerment, film infrastructure, and showcase Northern Nigeria’s creative storytelling power

Arewa International Film Festival (AIFF) has received strong endorsement from the Federal Government, signaling a major boost for the Northern film and creative industry.

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Speaking at the official unveiling of the festival, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Mrs. Hannatu Musawa, described the AIFF as a powerful vehicle for showcasing the Sahel region’s untapped storytelling potential and cultural depth.

Tagged “Showcasing untapped potential and promoting the rich historical heritage and storytelling of the Sahel region,” the AIFF aims to position Arewa as a rising force in Nigeria’s film ecosystem.

“The creative industry is Nigeria’s best platform to present its richness, diversity, and heritage to the world,” Musawa said, while calling on Arewa stakeholders to claim their place in the national creative narrative.

She emphasized that the Arewa International Film Festival must go beyond complaints and actively showcase its unique contributions. Plans are underway to build film villages and studios, with Kannywood fully integrated into the national film development strategy.

The government’s support, she added, is part of a transformative agenda to empower Northern youth, unlock economic opportunities, and strengthen cultural diplomacy.

Ali Nuhu, Managing Director of the Nigeria Film Corporation, said AIFF will bridge the creative gap between North and South, enable talent discovery, and provide platforms for training, networking, and funding.

“This is an opportunity to address long-standing issues in the Northern space—capacity building, partnerships, and global exposure,” he noted.

Festival Convener Rahama Sadau called the event a cultural renaissance. She said AIFF would showcase over 100 films, spotlight women in filmmaking, celebrate royal culture through the Durbar, and present innovation awards.

“We’ve been underrepresented in the global creative dialogue. The AIFF will amplify Northern Nigeria’s voice and heritage,” she said, noting the region’s rich oral tradition, history, and literature.

She praised the FG for creating an enabling environment and advocated for inclusive narratives that reflect the resilience and beauty of the Sahel.

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The Arewa International Film Festival c is not just a celebration—it’s a movement to reclaim the narrative, empower youth, and position the North as a cultural and cinematic powerhouse.