Director and founder of the Kaduna International Film Festival, Israel Kashim Audu, has urged filmmakers to handle social issues with care, truth and sensitivity.
Audu made the call at the opening ceremony of the festival’s eighth edition, which is holding from August 26 to 30 in Kaduna.
In his address, the director and vice chairman of the Nigerian Film Festivals Association (NFFA) said film can raise awareness, shape opinions, and drive social transformation, hence this year’s festival theme: ‘Film For Social Change’.
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He stressed that film festivals provide platforms for underrepresented voices and issues marginalised in the mainstream media to take centre stage.
However, as filmmakers highlight justice, equity, human rights, and social inclusion, he urges them to do so with care.
“Filmmakers, therefore, carry a profound responsibility to handle social themes with care, truth and sensitivity. Audiences, too, must approach film with critical minds, interrogating the narratives they consume and promoting a culture of media literacy.”
“Globally, film festivals like KADIFF are crucial platforms for elevating these conversations. By showcasing such stories, festivals challenge the status quo, amplify underrepresented voices and promote diverse perspectives.”
While the festival still records low film entries and participation by northern filmmakers and creatives, it has garnered much recognition nationally and internationally. It recorded over 2000 film entries, the highest number from Uganda. It attracted participants from Uganda, Cameroon, the US, and Egypt and has 168 films across several categories–features, documentary, animation, experimentation, indigenous, shorts, and student films.
It has also Nollywood veteran actors as Zach Orji, Francis Duru, Ejike Asiegbu, and producer, Biodun Stephen, and festival founders, Chioma Udeh of Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF), Fidelis Duker of Abuja International Film Festival (AIFF), Abdulkareem Mohammed of Kano Indigenous Language and Film Market Festival (KILAF) and industry expert and consultant, Dr Victor Okhai, host masterclasses and workshops on acting, production, and speaking on panel sessions that will enlighten participants on issues around the industry, as well as standard practice.
Speaking at the event, Kaduna Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, reiterated the state’s commitment to supporting the creative sector as part of its broader strategy of empowering its youth.
‘We recognise the creative industry as a vital driver of growth. Our young people have the energy, time and talent. They need platforms like this festival to showcase their skills and connect with the broader market.
“I call on sponsors, partners and well-meaning individuals to step up and support this festival. By investing in the festival, we are not only promoting arts and culture, but also strengthening an industry that has the potential to generate businesses and jobs for Nigerians.”
