From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
“Daddy Lesson” by Alison Precious Emmanuel secured the first-place prize of N1,000,000), “Halima” by Stephanie Philips clinched the second position, garnering N500,000, and “Tailored” by Rimamkongnde “Kongs” Yakubu Shamaki secured the third position, along with N350,000, at the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Short Film Challenge and Awards grand finale on August 12th.
The “Viewers’ Choice” award was conferred upon “Forever Yours,” submitted by Fred Ikpongke.
In a statement by Desmond Utomwen, the trio emerged victorious from 10 films shortlisted for the final phase out of the staggering 73 entries.
The statement said the films exhibited exemplary qualities that aligned with the SDGs’ objectives
The event was organized by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs) in collaboration with the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) and FreshNEWS Multimedia.
The event, a developmental endeavour that involves both the youth and the creative industry as pivotal contributors to Nigeria’s SDGs implementation efforts, had in attendance representatives from various organizations, including the United Nations, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the European Union, among others.
The statement explained that the evaluation of submissions was entrusted to a distinguished panel of judges, encompassing experts from the fields of filmmaking, sustainable development, and media.
The judges assessed the films based on criteria such as creativity, impact, storytelling prowess, and their alignment with the chosen SDGs and their call to action. The selection of judges was characterized by a rigorous process, emphasizing not only their credibility within the film industry but also their grasp of the SDGs’ principles.
The event’s organizers underscored their commitment to prioritise the selection criteria’s core focus.
The statement explained that beyond cinematic excellence, the paramount objective was to spotlight distinct facets of the 17 SDGs comprehensively.
The chosen entries were tasked with conveying the essence of the SDGs in a manner that galvanized a resolute call for action.
The films collectively shed light on a diverse array of pressing issues within the framework of the SDGs, resonating as impactful reflections of Nigeria’s societal tapestry.
The SDGs Short Film Challenge and Awards stands as a resounding testament to its potential as a galvanizing force, rallying Nigerian youth and filmmakers to unite under the banner of sustainable development.
Dignitaries at the event called for its expansion to sub-national levels. It has become a dynamic platform for nurturing the indispensable role of Nigerian youth in propelling national development.
A selection of these shortlisted films can be viewed on the SDGs Short Film Challenge & Awards’ official YouTube channel.