The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has praised young Nigerian filmmakers for using their creativity to drive social change and support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Represented by Ogbonna Ukukwu, Kalu gave the commendation during the SDG Short Film Challenge Award Ceremony held on Monday in Abuja.
Acknowledging the growing impact of film in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, the Deputy Speaker highlighted the vital role short films play in contemporary communication.
“We all know that the attention span today is fast; short films are very crucial. Passing messages through these films cannot be overemphasized,” he said.
He praised the filmmakers for their creativity, vision, and commitment to social transformation, noting that their craft is shaping conversations capable of improving communities across the country.
“You are not just entertaining people; you are using your platform to drive messages that will transform our communities and spur progress,” he added.
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While encouraging the young creatives to remain focused on positive storytelling, Kalu urged them to leverage their talents for nation-building.
“Use your creative mind to change things change the narrative, build inclusiveness, and let’s have a better and just society,” he said.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, represented by Aliyu Lolo, praised Nigerian youths for their commitment to promoting sustainable development through storytelling. She said the Short Film Challenge provides a platform for young Nigerians to shape national discourse on development using their voices, art, and innovation.
“As we celebrate today’s finalists and eventual winners, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable Nigeria one where no one is left behind,” she said.
In her remarks, the Director-General of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization (CBAAC), Aisha Augie, called for greater support for young filmmakers using creative storytelling to drive social change. She highlighted the power of film in shaping values, strengthening identity, and challenging harmful societal norms.
“When it comes to creativity connected to who we are as a people, this is something we stand for,” she said.
“The way we tell our stories either helps to fix some things or break them. That is why events like this are very important short films that continue to change the way we think and make things better for society.”
The SDG Short Film Challenge convenes young creatives from across the country, encouraging the use of visual storytelling as a tool for advocacy, community development, and the advancement of a more inclusive and sustainable society.