The official unveiling of the Arewa International Film Festival (AIFF) 2025 marked a bold step toward revitalizing the creative economy in Northern Nigeria, with a strong focus on SME growth in film and content production. Founded by a visionary cultural advocate, the festival aims to empower storytellers, entrepreneurs, and creative startups across the region.
Key government figures graced the event, including Hon. Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism & Creative Economy, who pledged continued national support. Dr. Ali Nuhu, MD of the Nigerian Film Corporation, and Hajiya Aisha Augie, DG of CBAAC, also expressed commitment to scaling regional talent and infrastructure.
The presence of Rahama Abdulmajid Shareef, PA to the President on Radio and Broadcast, and Ife Adebayo, National Coordinator of iDICE, further underlined federal support for innovation, youth inclusion, and SME development in the creative industry.
With AIFF 2025, the North gains not just a film festival, but a business platform—designed to open access to investment, digital tools, and collaboration for filmmakers, small studios, and creative entrepreneurs.
Described as a movement and cultural rebirth, the festival will enable SMEs in the arts and media sectors to tell authentic Northern stories, build sustainable businesses, and attract global partnerships.
