SDGs Short Film challenge 2025 celebrates young filmmakers worldwide using storytelling to advance sustainable development goals

Abuja is set to host the Grand Finale of the 3rd Edition of the SDGs Short Film Challenge 2025 on Tuesday, 9 December, transforming the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites into a hub of creativity, innovation, and sustainable development advocacy.

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Since its inception in 2023 with just 73 submissions, the Challenge has grown exponentially, receiving 2,265 entries from 140 countries this year.

The initiative, jointly organised by OSSAP-SDGs, the United Nations Information Centre, and FreshNEWS Multimedia Networks, empowers young filmmakers to advance the 2030 Agenda through storytelling.

Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, described the Challenge as “a dynamic vehicle for mobilising young people to interrogate developmental issues, provide homegrown solutions and inspire society through the creative power of film.”

The 2025 Grand Finale is more than an awards ceremony. It features an Exhibition Centre showcasing SDG-themed artworks, screenings of shortlisted films tackling pressing issues like climate action, gender equality, education, health, and responsible consumption, as well as dialogue sessions connecting youth, policymakers, and civil society actors.

The event culminates in a Red Carpet Gala Night and the Awards Presentation, celebrating young talent while fostering international exposure, mentorship opportunities, and global creative networks.

The Challenge reflects a growing global youth movement committed to using storytelling as a tool for social change. Films submitted annually confront injustice, challenge stereotypes, and highlight inequalities, proving that young people are active architects of sustainable development.

With anticipation mounting for 9 December, Abuja will welcome filmmakers, diplomats, development partners, creative industry figures, and youth leaders, all converging to celebrate creativity, advocacy, and innovation.

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The SDGs Short Film Challenge 2025 reaffirms that storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals—one film at a time.