Organisers of the Kaduna International Film Festival have unveiled plans for the 8th edition of the global event, scheduled to hold from 26th to 30th August 2025, with a strong message that film must serve as a tool for social change, especially in today’s media-driven society.
Speaking at a world press conference held in Kaduna on Thursday, Executive Director of the Festival, Mr. Audu Kashim Israel, said this year’s theme, “Film for Social Change”, is a timely reminder that the creative industry holds the potential to influence lives, shift perspectives and spark national conversations.
“Film can entertain, educate and inspire people to take action. It is a persuasive art form that shapes public opinion and can even change policies,” he said, stressing that creatives must embrace the power they wield to spark transformation in society.
The 2025 edition, he revealed, received over 2,000 film submissions from more than 50 countries. Out of these, 168 films were selected by a 9-member board of jurors, with multiple nominations from 15 countries, including Uganda, Nigeria, Kenya, Russia, Finland, France, USA, India, Tunisia and Ghana. Uganda again led with the highest number of entries, marking the third consecutive year of dominance at the Kaduna platform.
While highlighting the unique role of film in influencing behaviour and shaping identity, Israel noted that storytelling through cinema remains one of the most potent ways to drive social development.
“As creatives, we sometimes feel too small to make an impact. But the big stories always start small. Our tools, the script, the camera, the edit suite, are instruments of change,” he said.
In addition to film screenings, the 8th Kaduna International Film Festival will also include skills acquisition programmes aimed at empowering 200 youths in various crafts ranging from food and beverage production to cosmetics, hygiene and local products. Participants are expected to register via WhatsApp before 20th August 2025, with some beneficiaries expected to receive starter packs at the end of the training.
Organisers also announced a special short film competition for young filmmakers, in partnership with Lipton. The competition invites submissions of 10-minute short films depicting families or friends sharing breakfast with Lipton. Winners will be unveiled at the closing ceremony on 30th August.
He also commended the Kaduna State Government under Governor Uba Sani for creating a conducive atmosphere for youth-centred events and supporting the creative industry.
“We cannot thank the Kaduna State Government enough for its continuous support and for prioritising opportunities for young people in the state,” he said.
Israel, who also serves as Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Film Festivals Association, called on public and private sector stakeholders to invest more in film festivals, describing them as vital platforms for networking, collaboration, and the global marketing of Nigeria’s creative potential.
“As we mark our eighth anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting storytelling that sparks conversation and drives action,” he said. “We look forward to hosting all our guests from around the world here in the beautiful city of Kaduna.”
