Federal Gov’t, UN Strengthen SDGs Drive Through Filmmaking

The Federal Government and the United Nations are taking significant steps to strengthen the drive toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. This initiative focuses on engaging actors and filmmakers to promote the UN’s objectives.

The key development came at the launch of the Third Edition of the SDGs Short Film Challenge and Awards in Abuja on Wednesday, a milestone in using storytelling as an advocacy tool for the SDGs both in Nigeria and globally.

Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, stated that the SDGs Short Film Challenge and Awards were designed to mobilize filmmakers in the Decade of Action to accelerate SDG achievement through storytelling.

“The initiative invites creative minds to produce impactful short films (maximum 15 minutes) that highlight developmental challenges, propose solutions, and inspire action on critical issues like poverty, illiteracy, gender inequality, climate change, and social justice,” Orelope-Adefulire explained.

She emphasized that the initiative not only raises awareness but also engages young people, sparks important dialogue, and positions film as a tool for advocacy and social change. Additionally, the challenge offers emerging filmmakers a platform for global recognition and professional growth.

“Through compelling narratives, the challenge aims to educate, provoke conversations, and drive tangible action towards ending hunger, reducing inequalities, and protecting our planet,” she added.

Orelope-Adefulire further noted that the success of the initiative over the past two editions is a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity. She highlighted the growing impact, with participation expanding from 73 submissions in the first edition to 2,250 entries from 119 countries in the second edition.

The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, emphasized that the launch of this edition is a “call for action,” a celebration of creativity, and a rallying point for the SDGs.

“Stories shape the world and eliminate injustice,” Fall said, adding that as the global community approaches the final stretch of the SDGs, the power of storytelling is more essential than ever. It helps translate complex global challenges into human experiences that resonate, educate, and inspire action.

Fall also pointed out Nigeria’s significant role in storytelling, particularly through Nollywood, one of the largest film industries in the world, which has a massive reach across Africa and beyond. He stated that by channeling this creative force toward the SDGs, Nigeria is doing more than amplifying global needs—it is empowering young people to take ownership of the development narrative.

“Nigeria’s storytelling power is vital in spotlighting issues such as gender inequality, climate change action, and poverty reduction. The UN stands firmly behind this mission,” he concluded.