Federal Gov’t, UN Amplify SDGs Agenda Through Filmmaking

Abuja, Nigeria  —  The Federal Government of Nigeria, in partnership with the United Nations (UN), has intensified efforts to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by harnessing the power of filmmaking and storytelling. 

This commitment was underscored at the launch of the Third Edition of the SDGs Short Film Challenge and Awards, held in Abuja on Wednesday. The event marked a significant milestone in leveraging cinema as a transformative tool for advocacy and awareness on sustainable development.

Speaking at the launch, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, emphasized the initiative’s role in mobilizing filmmakers as agents of change.

“The SDGs Short Film Challenge and Awards provide a platform for creative minds to craft compelling short films, no longer than 15 minutes, that spotlight developmental challenges, propose solutions, and inspire meaningful action,” she stated.

She highlighted key issues addressed by the initiative, including poverty, illiteracy, gender inequality, climate change, and social justice, noting that beyond raising awareness, the project fosters youth engagement, stimulates dialogue, and positions film as a driving force for advocacy and impact.

“The challenge is not just about storytelling; it is about shaping perspectives, influencing policies, and driving real change in communities. Through thought-provoking narratives, we can encourage action towards ending hunger, reducing inequalities, and safeguarding the planet,” she added.

Princess Orelope-Adefulire acknowledged the remarkable success of the initiative since its inception, attributing it to the strength of strategic partnerships and creative innovation. She noted that the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs (OSSAP-SDGs), in collaboration with the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), has empowered young filmmakers to produce narratives that align with the UN’s global agenda.

Launched in 2022, the maiden edition of the challenge culminated in a grand finale on August 12, 2023, coinciding with International Youth Day at the Continental Hotel, Abuja. Building on its success, the second edition expanded significantly, with its grand finale held at Silverbird Galleria, Abuja, on December 21, 2024.

According to Orelope-Adefulire, the project has witnessed exponential growth in participation. The first edition received 73 submissions, while the second edition attracted 2,250 entries from 119 countries, a testament to its growing influence and global appeal.

In his remarks, Mohamed Fall, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, described the initiative as a catalyst for social transformation.

“This challenge is more than an event—it is a movement, a celebration of creativity, and a call to action for the SDGs,” he stated.

Fall emphasized the power of storytelling in shaping societal values, eliminating injustice, and translating complex global challenges into human-centered narratives that resonate with people worldwide.

“As we approach the final stretch of the 2030 SDGs timeline, the world needs stories now more than ever. Stories bridge gaps, educate communities, and ignite action,” he noted.

Highlighting Nigeria’s pivotal role in global storytelling, Fall praised the Nollywood industry as one of the world’s largest and most influential film sectors.

“Nigeria is a storytelling powerhouse. Nollywood reaches millions across Africa and beyond. By channeling this creative energy towards the SDGs, we are doing more than raising awareness, we are equipping young people to take ownership of the development narrative, spotlight critical issues, and drive lasting impact,” he affirmed.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from both the Federal Government and the UN to sustain this initiative, ensuring that storytelling remains at the heart of sustainable development efforts in Nigeria and beyond.

By Enoch Odesola | March  28, 2025