Preparations for the eighth Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF) are in top gear, with the organisers confirming the receipt of more than 2,000 film entries from over 50 countries, including the United States, France, India and Uganda.

This year’s edition, holding from August 26 to 30, will spotlight the theme, “Film for Social Change,” a concept to harness the power of cinema as a catalyst for civic education, national development and social transformation.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna yesterday, the Executive Director of KADIFF and Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Film Festivals Association, Audu Kashim Israel, described the level of international participation as a testament to the rising influence of Nigeria’s creative sector and the country’s expanding cultural footprints.

“Film is a compelling medium of expression that mirrors society, shapes public discourse, and mobilises action. We are convinced that filmmakers have a duty to lead conversations that promote change and inspire new ways of thinking,” he said.

Out of the thousands of entries received, 168 films have been shortlisted by a nine-member jury panel. Uganda topped the submissions list for the third year running, followed by strong entries from Nigeria, Kenya, Russia, Finland, Tunisia, Cameroon, and Zambia.