— Over 150 Films, Youth Empowerment, and Global Participation Expected

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

KADUNA — The Executive Director of the Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF), Audu Kashim Israel, has announced that the 8th edition of the annual event will focus on leveraging cinema as a catalyst for social transformation.

Speaking at a World Press Conference in Kaduna on Wednesday, Israel revealed that the theme for the 2025 edition—scheduled to hold from August 26 to 30—is “Film for Social Change.”

“This year, we are not just screening films. We are calling on filmmakers to be intentional about the impact of their work. The time has come for us to use film as a tool for advocacy, education, and empowerment,” Israel said.

He noted that KADIFF has grown into a reputable platform over the years, promoting African narratives, nurturing emerging talents, and addressing pressing societal issues through visual storytelling.

The 2025 edition will feature over 150 film screenings, alongside panel discussions, masterclasses, workshops, and tributes to Nollywood pioneers. A special spotlight will be placed on youth and gender empowerment, as well as film-in-education programmes targeted at schools and young audiences.

Israel expressed appreciation to the Kaduna State Government for its ongoing support of the creative sector and also acknowledged the role of local and international partners in sustaining the festival’s growth over the past eight years.

“Your voice matters. Your story can change lives. KADIFF 2025 is your platform,” he told Nigerian creatives, while calling on the media to amplify the festival’s message.

According to Israel, Uganda led in film submissions for the third consecutive year, with 168 films selected by a nine-member jury, representing entries from Nigeria, Kenya, Finland, Russia, France, USA, India, Tunisia, Zambia, Cameroon, and Ghana.

He noted that registration remains open until August 19, 2025, through the festival’s official website: www.kadunafilmfestival.com.

As part of an expanded programme this year, KADIFF will also introduce a skills acquisition scheme for 200 youths, offering training in the production of yoghurt, pizza, custard, bournvita, humra, turaren wuta (traditional incense), palm oil, suya spice, and paint. Starter packs will be distributed to some participants.

Since its inception, the Kaduna International Film Festival has served as a convergence point for filmmakers, actors, producers, and film enthusiasts from across Africa and beyond, using cinema to inspire positive change and drive development.