Kaduna International Film Festival 2025 urges filmmakers to drive social change. Over 2,000 submissions, youth training, and global participation expected

Kaduna International Film Festival 2025 is using the power of cinema to call for social transformation, as organizers unveil a bold theme: “Film for Social Change.”

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At a world press briefing on Thursday, KADIFF Executive Director Audu Israel emphasized that film is a potent tool for advocacy, influence, and societal reflection.

“Film mirrors society. It can entertain, educate, and inspire people to act,” Israel said, highlighting how platforms like TikTok and Instagram expose youth to media daily—proving that film’s reach is both powerful and continuous.

This year’s festival has received over 2,000 submissions from 50+ countries, with 168 films selected from 15 nations including Nigeria, Kenya, France, USA, India, and Ghana.

Screenings will take place at Silverbird Cinema, Galaxy Mall, with other events hosted at Stonehedge Hotel from August 26–30, 2025.

The festival will also empower 200 youths with skill-based training in food production and crafts, including pizza, yogurt, incense, and palm oil. Starter packs will be awarded to help jumpstart small businesses.

In collaboration with Lipton, a special contest titled “Breakfast with Lipton” invites short film submissions (max 10 mins) from July 24 to August 21, with winners announced at the closing ceremony.

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Audu Israel thanked Governor Uba Sani and partners like Afrexim Bank, MTN, Africa Magic, MacArthur Foundation, EU, Air Peace, and NCC. He urged stakeholders to invest in local film festivals as platforms for marketing, creativity, and global exposure.