168 films shortlisted for Kaduna festival — Vice Chairman NFFA

The Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF) has shortlisted 168 films out of 2,000 film submissions from over 50 countries, including the United States, France, India, and Uganda, ahead of its 8th edition scheduled to hold from August 26 to 30, 2025.

Speaking at a world press conference in Kaduna on Thursday, the Executive Director of KADIFF and Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Film Festivals Association, Audu Kashim Israel, described the strong global participation as evidence of Nigeria’s growing cultural relevance and its creative industry’s influence.

He explained that the theme of this year’s festival, “Film for Social Change,” is aimed at promoting cinema as a tool for civic engagement, education, and national development.

“Film remains one of the most powerful means of storytelling. It reflects the realities of society, influences public opinion, and inspires people to take action. We believe that creatives must use their talent to drive positive change and shape the narratives of the future,” Israel said.

According to him, ” a total of 168 films have been shortlisted by a nine-member jury from the thousands of entries received. Uganda leads the submissions for the third consecutive year, while other prominent contributors include Nigeria, Kenya, Russia, Finland, Tunisia, Cameroon, and Zambia.

Israel who is the executive director of Kaduna International Film Festival also announced that this year’s festival will feature a skills acquisition programme designed to empower 200 youths with practical knowledge in areas such as pizza, yogurt, custard, paint making, and palm oil processing. Selected participants will receive starter packs to kick-start their ventures.

In collaboration with Lipton, the festival has launched a short film competition to support young Nigerian filmmakers. The competition invites entries of short films not exceeding 10 minutes that tell family stories built around breakfast moments. Winners will be celebrated at the festival’s closing ceremony on August 30.

The festival will be hosted at multiple venues, with the Silverbird Cinema at Galaxy Mall serving as the main screening hub, while other activities will take place at Stonghelge Hotel. Tourism is also a major highlight, with guided visits planned to Arewa House, Zazzau Emirate, Fifth Chukker Polo Resort, and Kaduna Museum.

Israel expressed appreciation to the Kaduna State Government under Governor Uba Sani for supporting the creative sector and enabling the festival’s growth.

“As Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Film Festivals Association, I appeal to both government and private investors to support film festivals. They remain vital platforms for discovering talent, building networks, promoting culture, and advancing Nigeria’s global creative influence,” Israel added.

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