Eze Izu Daniel clinched the grand prize at the 2024 SDGs Short Film Challenge and Awards, held on Saturday at the Silverbird Cinema in Abuja. His film, Wasted, outshone 2,249 entries from 119 countries, captivating the judges and audience with its poignant exploration of drug addiction and its impact on youth.
The film centered on SDG Goal 3, focusing on health and well-being. It tells the story of a young individual whose reliance on drugs to combat stage fright spirals into addiction, ultimately derailing his life and sanity. The powerful narrative resonated deeply with viewers and critics alike.
“I feel like the hard work is paying off gradually,” Eze said during his acceptance speech.
Other winners included Road Trip by Victor Eyike/Accelerate TV, which emerged as the 1st runner-up, and Oke Okuta by Oke Tolulope as 2nd runner-up. British Passport by Mahmood Pouyandah from Iran won Best International Film, while Imperishable by Akansha Tiwari from India clinched Best Documentary. The Best Animation award went to Carbon Traces by Stafie Gan from the USA, and Alone by Stephen Shenboyejo won the Viewers’ Choice Award.
The event attracted notable guests, including UN Resident/Humanitarian Coordinator a.i. Elsie Attafuah, Hon. Usman Bashir Zubairu (representing Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas), Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, and NYSC Director-General Brig. Gen. Y.D. Ahmed.
In her keynote address, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, commended the creativity of the filmmakers, saying, “By harnessing the power of film and the creativity of our youth, the SDGs Short Film Challenge provides a platform for amplifying voices, showcasing diverse perspectives, and inspiring action.”
The 2024 edition marked significant growth from the inaugural 2023 challenge, which attracted 73 entries. This year, the competition drew 2,250 entries from 119 countries, underscoring its global resonance.
Organized by OSSAP-SDGs in collaboration with the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) and FreshNEWS Multimedia, the challenge empowers young filmmakers to tackle global issues through creative storytelling.
Elsie Attafuah lauded the initiative as more than a showcase of artistic talent. “These films are not just creative expressions; they are calls to action to address pressing issues such as gender inequality, climate change, and public health challenges” she said.
