This year’s Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF) once again provided a vibrant platform to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Kaduna State through the transformative power of cinema. Now in its eighth edition, the festival drew attention to the urgent need for film to serve as a catalyst for social change, especially in an era dominated by media influence. With the theme “Film for Social Change,” the event underscored the creative industry’s capacity to shape narratives, challenge societal norms, and inspire meaningful conversations across communities and borders.
Audu Kashim Israel, Executive Director of KADIFF, emphasized the profound impact of storytelling in driving social development. He described cinema as one of the most potent tools for advocacy, capable of igniting change and fostering empathy. His remarks echoed the festival’s mission to harness the power of film not just for entertainment, but as a vehicle for progress and transformation.
The 2025 edition of KADIFF attracted an impressive 2,000 film submissions from over 50 countries, reflecting the festival’s growing international stature. A panel of nine jurors meticulously selected 168 films for screening, with entries spanning 15 nations including Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, Russia, Finland, France, the United States, India, Tunisia, and Ghana. Uganda emerged as the leading contributor for the third consecutive year, a testament to the festival’s strong resonance within East Africa’s creative community. Audu noted the consistent rise in Ugandan entries as evidence of KADIFF’s expanding influence and recognition across the continent.
Beyond film screenings, the festival offered a dynamic lineup of activities designed to engage, educate, and inspire. Attendees participated in masterclasses led by industry veterans, thought-provoking panel discussions, cultural exhibitions, and tourism showcases. A new addition this year was a skill acquisition program aimed at empowering young creatives with practical tools to thrive in the film industry. These multifaceted experiences reinforced KADIFF’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering cross-cultural exchange.
Among the voices championing the festival’s theme was Abuja-based filmmaker Gloria Ugolee-Ehiosun, who advocates for socially conscious storytelling. She encourages her students to infuse their work with purpose, aiming to produce films that drive behavioral change and reflect societal realities. Her participation in this year’s festival highlighted the importance of intentional content creation in shaping public discourse.
Veteran Nollywood actress and filmmaker Chinyere Nwabueze echoed similar sentiments, stressing the role of cinema in addressing pressing social issues and reshaping negative perceptions. She believes that through compelling narratives, filmmakers can influence attitudes and contribute to a more informed and empathetic society.
International perspectives also enriched the festival’s dialogue. UK journalist and director John Coster praised the relevance of this year’s theme, urging young African filmmakers to take ownership of their stories. He called for a shift in narrative control, advocating for authentic portrayals of African experiences from within the continent rather than through external lenses.
Since its founding in 2018, KADIFF has stood as Northern Nigeria’s first international film festival, steadily evolving into a beacon for cultural expression and social advocacy. With each edition, it reaffirms the power of film to transcend borders, challenge conventions, and illuminate paths toward a more inclusive and conscious future.