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EXCLUSIVE: RANKS AFRICA MAGAZINE SPECIAL EDITION IN PARTNERSHIP KIDD WAYA
Narrative does change; as life goes on, the beauty of who you are will be defined by your intentions toward yourself, your fans, and your craft. Kiddwaya is a major player in Entertainment industry, and he is using his influence and individuality to improve the relationships of the fans and Stan.
How Kiddwaya moved away from other people’s realities to pursue his own reality without taking away his wholesome personality needs to be adequately studied. Kiddwaya channeled his intuition into a dream life and the goals he has always desired at a time when so many people believed in life on social media and were faking impressions just to keep up with the gram. He took the importance of social media and celebrities’ lifestyles to a different level, thereby steadily building his fortress and creating a diversified niche.
The reality of a favorite can also influence the stans, which explains the WDG’s extraordinary composure and positivity adoration. a base that took time not just to keep up with their favorite alone but also took a cue from his positive and global impact. Boldness and a proper understanding of life are their forte—class beyond class, you might say.
Due to Kidd Waya’s significant actions over the course of his three years of fame, this special edition of Ranks Africa Magazine is dedicated to him.
So now it’s over to you. What do you think of this issue, both in print and online? What do you like and what is missing? Let us know RanksAfrica@gmail.com or @RanksAfrica on Twitter and Instagram and we’ll see what we can deliver in our forthcoming issues.
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Ranks Africa Magazine: Without a doubt, Kunle Afolayan revolutionized how viewers rated Nigerian films.
The influence of Kunle Afolayan is long-lasting and profound. Prior to the monumental success of ANIKULAPO, Kunle Afolayan has always worked with magic, both historically and currently. He served as an inspiration for many filmmakers even before cinema and online streaming were widely adopted in Nigeria; to his credit, movies like Irapada, The Figurine, Phone Swap, October 1, Roti, The CEO, Mokalik, etc. have all been named the finest movies by movie lovers.
Without a doubt, Kunle Afolayan revolutionized how viewers rated Nigerian films. He is one of the most well-known directors to emerge in the last two decades. He also fits the description of a director who is aware of the idea of talent stardom.
Even though Kunle Afolayan has not yet received an Oscar, he will always be considered one of the best in the world. For this reason, a special edition of Ranks Africa Magazine has been created to recognize and commemorate him.
With nearly three decades of professional acting experience, Kunle Afolayan is not just a talented filmmaker but also a very skilled actor who is pleasant, charming, and easygoing.
We also name 14 actors in this special issue of the magazine who you should watch out for in 2023. The list includes actors who are having breakout years, stars of highly anticipated films for the awards season, and even actors who are making their film debuts.
So now it’s over to you. What do you think of this issue, both in print and online? What do you like and what is missing? Let us know RanksAfrica@gmail.com or @RanksAfrica on Twitter and Instagram and we’ll see what we can deliver in our forthcoming issues.
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RANKS MAGAZINE-FASHION EDITION: NIYI LAWAL BRIDGING THE CULTURE
In Nigeria, becoming a successful entrepreneur and influencer is not simple, especially for well-known individuals. There is pressure attached. Hard work, expertise, and frequently a small bit of luck is necessary.
One of the few people who had a successful business before becoming famous is Niyi. Since Niyi Lawal was presented to the world via the reality television show “Big Brother Naija” season 6’s “Shine Ya Eye,” many have come to the conclusion that you don’t need to be an entertainer before you join the show.
Due to the way he conducts himself on the show, Niyi continues to be one of the most respected #BBNAIJA naija alumni.
We at Ranks Africa have decided to celebrate those who have achieved professional success and used their enterprises to have a positive influence on their industry as well as society at large. This is the driving force behind this magazine.
This time around, Niyi Lawal, a successful serial entrepreneur and fashion influencer, is the subject of our focus story. You’ll find this quite interesting.
THE PRINT COPY IS GOING TO BE AVAILABLE FROM 30TH OCT. 2022
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RanksBusiness Magazine: Taking a giant step from certainty to uncertainty, Cross da Boss inspires entrepreneurs
Ranks Magazine is a media outlet documenting creative minds today for tomorrow, which Identify and Promote Business, People and Industries from the perspective of every people & connecting people to latest business news
Two things happen when you live through an era of rapid change, as we are now. Firstly, there is an inevitable surge of artistic creativity and second the contrarians, the non-conformists and the anti-heroes come into their own. We witness the rise of the rebel: those who don’t play by the normal rules, who flourish in chaotic, unpredictable times and welcome uncertainty without fear. This is what this edition of Ranks Africa Magazine, celebrating Entrepreneur, Cross Okonkwo is all about. This edition celebrates the curious revolutionaries who think differently and this is reflected in the articles and contents carefully put together in this edition.
This edition, gives an insight into the life and brand of Ikechukwu Sunday Cross Okonkwo, popularly known as Cross, Entertainer, Lifestyle & Fitness Entrepreneur and the King of the Cross Nation.
The Hardcopy is 8,000 and 2,000 for digital copy
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Taking a giant step from certainty to uncertainty, Cross da Boss inspires entrepreneurs, setting a new standard beyond entertainment on this exclusive edition of Ranks Magazine which explores his entrepreneurship journey, growth and lifestyle.
To all members of the CROSS NATION across the globe, this is a must have ‘master piece’ of your king and serial Entrepreneur available.
ICON EDITION: LAYCON FROM LOCKDOWN ICON TO UNSTOPPABLE SUPER STAR
The history of the Nigerian Entertainment landscape in the last decade cannot be said to be complete without a reference to the year 2020 which significantly affected all spheres of the entertainment industry. From Music, Movie, Comedy, to Cinema and Shows, every aspect were significantly affected as a result of the global pandemic which led to months of lockdown across the world including Nigeria. In the midst of this pandemic, while many entertainers were struggling to survive, and some pushed off the scene due to the New Normal, a new star was born, changing the face and phase of entertainment in Nigeria. His name is Olamilekan Agbelese popularly known as LAYCON, the phenomenal champion of the Lockdown episode of the “Big Brother Naija” reality TV show, who is now the Unstoppable Superstar.
Ranks Magazine is a Single Character Tabloid that intends to holistically capture the life, career growth and creativities of certain individuals who have distinguished themselves in their chosen fields of endeavours. It has a tripartite motive of; serving as a compendium for the personality, x-raying the known and revealing the unknown.
This edition, gives an insight into the lockdown ICON of Big Brother Naija, x-raying his rise to stardom, critique of his album and perspectives of fans about him. A perspective analysis of this phenomenon GOD IN HUMAN BODY is presented in this edition and it is insightful. As you flip through the pages, you will no doubt see the depth of research and robust intellectual analysis in all the discourses.
Welcome to the world of Ranks.
Chief Editor: Charles Omotayo.
Creative Director: Wale Kazeem
Project Coordinator: Wale Kazeem | Lanre Adegbaju
Photographer: Lopeze Photography
Stylist: Leereeks The Stylist
Read below Excerpts
ICON EDITION: AGAIN, WHO IS LAYCON?
ICON EDITION: THE UNSTOPPABLE JOURNEY OF LAYCON
VIEWS AND PERSPECTIVES OF FANS AND FRIENDS ABOUT LAYCON
Laycon: The Long Walk to Shall We Begin Album
WHY SOME FANS CHOOSE TO GO ON EVERLASTING JOURNEY WITH LAYCON
You can Download full Magazine
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Ranks Africa Partners Unstoppable Super Star LAYCON in ICONIC EDITION of Ranks Magazine
Ranks Africa is up to something with The Lockdown ICON who is now Unstoppable Superstar Olamilekan Agbeleshe ‘LAYCON’ with forefront Fanbase ICONS, who are currently redefining Fanbase ideologies and goals.
The partnership is to produce a Single- Character Magazine which intends to holistically capture the life, career growth and creativity of LAYCON who have distinguished himself as REALTY STAR AND RAPPER with uncommon melodies. Ranks Magazine has a tripartite motive of; serving as a compendium for the personality, x-raying the known and revealing the unknown of the personality and promoting the works and creativity of the personality.
The September Male Edition is nicknamed ICONS EDITION to illuminate the positive beacons in a sea of negativity, especially at a time like this when youths of this age are finding entertainment and self-reliance unworthy.
The September Editon will be out on the 10th September also open for partnership in form of adverts and promotions.
ICONS, let’s do this for the culture. READ NOW
For Advert Placement: +23480875771401 or Email info@RanksAfrica.com
Photographer @Lopeze_photography
Stylist : @leereeksthestylist
Creative Director: @rhwaley
@ranksafrica
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Mars Rock from Niger Sells for $4.3 Million at Auction
A 54-pound Martian meteorite, officially named Northwest Africa 16788 (NWA 16788), was discovered in Niger’s Sahara Desert in November 2023. On July 16, 2025, Sotheby’s in New York sold the rock at auction for a final bid of $4.3 million, which, after fees, totaled approximately $5.3 million, making it:
– The largest known piece of Mars ever found on Earth.
– Representing nearly 7% of all Martian material on our planet .
Laboratory analysis confirmed the meteorite is an “olivine-microgabbroic shergottite,” matching chemical signatures from NASA’s 1976 Viking Mars mission . With only about 400 Mars-origin meteorites identified out of over 77,000 total meteorites discovered, this specimen is exceptionally rare .
Cassandra Hatton, Sotheby’s vice-chairman for science and natural history, highlighted the meteorite’s prominence and its intact condition, which suggests it fell to Earth recently .
The sale was part of Sotheby’s Geek Week 2025, held at the American Museum of Natural History, and featured alongside a juvenile Ceratosaurus dinosaur skeleton that fetched $30.5 million . Debate continues over private versus institutional ownership of such rare scientific treasure.
Why does this Matter?
This meteorite offers a rare geological snapshot of Mars and could provide invaluable scientific insight.
Its historic sale—dramatically surpassing the estimated $2 – 4 million range—reflects growing public and private interest in extraterrestrial material.
Raises important questions about balancing scientific accessibility with private collecting.
Credit: Africanews
Uganda’s Election Season Sparks Supernatural Surge
As Uganda approaches its general elections in January 2026, a surge in belief in witchcraft and supernatural influence is gripping the political landscape. Many candidates and voters alike believe that success or failure in elections can be heavily influenced by spiritual forces, prompting a dramatic rise in the use of traditional rituals and consultations with witch doctors.
In Mbale, a parliamentary aspirant, Wilson Watira, described avoiding a handshake with an opponent at a funeral, citing fears of supernatural attacks. Cultural researcher Steven Masiga noted that across Uganda, politicians often allocate part of their campaign budgets to pay witch doctors in hopes of spiritual protection or electoral victory.
The practice includes visiting shrines, performing rituals, and even carrying personal charms or avoiding eye contact—all meant to protect oneself from spiritual harm. Some ceremonies involve animal sacrifices, burning of herbs, or staying in seclusion before big political events.
Religious leaders have also raised alarms. Bishop Lawrence Mukasa of the Kasana-Luweero Diocese openly criticized the reliance on witchcraft, urging Christian politicians to reject occult practices and focus on prayer and integrity.
In Kamuli District, fear has turned personal and deadly. Former LC5 Chairman Thomas Kategere claimed he left politics after a series of strange occurrences, including a live chick found in his locked office and persistent illness that doctors failed to diagnose. Similarly, former district chairperson Salaam Musumba alleged there is a covert network of poisoners and herbalists targeting leaders. These suspicions intensified following the sudden death of Charles Mugude Kuwembula, a district chairman who collapsed mysteriously and later died. Musumba believes his death was linked to spiritual attacks and plans to expose the network at his burial.
President Yoweri Museveni, now 80, is expected to run for re-election, potentially against popular opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine. In such a high-stakes race, the blending of traditional beliefs and political maneuvering reveals a society where spiritual fears remain potent even in modern politics.
Credit: Africanews
Eswatini Confirms It Will Repatriate Immigrants Deported by the U.S
- The Trump administration recently deported five convicted criminals—from Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Cuba, and Yemen—to Eswatini, under a controversial third‑country deportation policy permitted by a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling .
Eswatini’s acting government spokesperson, Thabile Mdluli, confirmed that the individuals are currently being housed in isolated units within the country’s correctional system. She emphasized that they pose no threat to public safety and that their continued stay is temporary .
Crucially, Eswatini stated it will not function as a permanent host. Instead, the government has committed to collaborating with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to arrange eventual repatriation of the deportees to their respective countries of origin . Eswatini’s government described the arrangement as the outcome of months of high-level negotiations with the U.S., asserting that all normal diplomatic protocols and risk assessments were followed .
Eswatini, Africa’s last absolute monarchy under King Mswati III, received the individuals under caution due to the country’s history of human rights concerns, including political repression and poor prison conditions .
Credit: Africanews
Five Deported from US to Eswatini Over Criminal Convictions
The Trump administration has deported five foreign nationals—from Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Cuba, and Yemen—to Eswatini after their home countries refused to take them back due to their serious criminal convictions. These individuals were convicted of crimes including murder, child rape, and gang-related offence.
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the five men were considered “uniquely barbaric” and dangerous to American communities. The deportation was carried out under a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that allows deportations to third countries even when the individuals’ countries of origin refuse to accept them. This policy change permits removals without detailed case-by-case reviews, sometimes with less than six hours’ notice.
Eswatini, a small southern African monarchy ruled by King Mswati III, has accepted the individuals temporarily. According to government spokesperson Thabile Mdluli, the deportees are being held in isolation and do not pose a threat to the public. Plans are in place to eventually repatriate them to their countries of origin through assistance from the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The move has sparked serious concern among human rights groups, who point to Eswatini’s poor human rights record, including reports of police brutality, lack of due process, and overcrowded prisons. Critics argue that sending vulnerable individuals to a country with such conditions may violate international human rights laws and standards.
This deportation is part of a broader strategy by President Donald Trump to remove foreign criminals whose countries decline repatriation, with other similar deportations being considered for South Sudan, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and possibly Rwanda.
Credit: Africanews
SOUTH AFRICA: Eskom Targets Mainly Clean Energy Sources by 2040
Eskom, South Africa’s state-owned power utility, has announced plans to transition its electricity generation to rely primarily on clean energy sources by the year 2040. The move is part of a broader strategy to combat climate change, improve energy security, and modernize South Africa’s power sector.
Currently, Eskom generates most of its electricity from coal. Under its new plan, it intends to cut its coal-fired capacity from 39 GW to 18 GW while increasing renewable energy capacity from less than 1 GW today to 32 GW by 2040. This transformation includes converting some of its aging coal plants into facilities powered by renewables or natural gas.
To drive this transformation, Eskom will establish a dedicated renewable energy unit. This unit will coordinate investments, lead development efforts, and partner with the private sector to bring new green projects online.
By 2030, Eskom aims to deliver 5.9 GW of clean energy, supported by a project pipeline of at least 2 GW already in progress. However, major financial and infrastructure challenges remain. Eskom is currently burdened with R400 billion (about $22 billion) in debt, struggles with unpaid municipal bills, and faces issues related to underpriced tariffs that hinder investment capacity.
In addition to funding, South Africa needs to invest around R440 billion in transmission infrastructure over the next 10 years to accommodate the growing number of renewable projects and expand regional power trading.
Eskom’s clean energy roadmap is part of a broader “just transition” strategy that emphasizes the creation of up to 300,000 green jobs and social support for communities affected by the shift away from coal. One example is the Komati power station, which is being repurposed into a solar and battery storage facility—a pilot for future community-based renewable projects.
Despite obstacles, this plan signals a bold shift in South Africa’s energy direction. Eskom’s strategy supports national climate goals and represents a significant step toward modernizing Africa’s most industrialized electricity system.
Credit: Africanews
12 Countries Adopt Measures to Pressure Israel to End Military Action in Gaza
A coalition of 12 countries has taken strong diplomatic steps to pressure Israel into halting its military operations in Gaza and lifting the ongoing blockade that has led to severe humanitarian consequences.
Seven European countries—Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Malta, Slovenia, Spain, and Norway—issued a joint declaration urging Israel to “immediately reverse its current policy,” end military offensives, and lift restrictions preventing humanitarian aid from reaching Gaza’s civilians.
In a parallel move on 19 May, the UK, France, and Canada condemned Israel’s renewed military campaign. The UK’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy called the offensive “morally unjustifiable.” These countries responded by suspending trade talks with Israel and imposing sanctions on certain Israeli settlers in the West Bank.
Jordan, represented at the UN Security Council by Mahmoud Daifallah Hmoud, demanded that aid crossings be opened immediately and called for Israel to stop mass displacements and comply with international humanitarian law.
On 13 June, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution with a vote of 149–12, demanding an “immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire” in Gaza. Although earlier efforts were blocked by a U.S. veto in the Security Council, this General Assembly vote carried strong symbolic weight and urged all member states to use lawful means to pressure Israel into compliance.
Meanwhile, UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese urged countries to sever diplomatic and economic ties with Israel and to support the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, citing possible violations of international law.
Palestinian voices and global advocates echoed these demands at international forums—including one held in Bogotá—pushing for further accountability and an end to the Gaza blockade.
Credit: Africanews
Togo Holds First Local Elections Since Controversial Power Shift
On July 17, 2025, Togo held its first municipal elections since President Faure Gnassingbé oversaw a controversial constitutional change in March 2024. The new constitution removed direct presidential elections and created a new executive position—President of the Council of Ministers—which Gnassingbé now occupies. The presidency became a ceremonial role and was filled by Jean‑Lucien Savi de Tové, chosen by the National Assembly.
Critics and opposition figures described the change as a “constitutional coup,” enabling Gnassingbé to maintain power indefinitely and sidestep term limits. His family has ruled Togo for over 58 years. In the lead-up to the elections, the country witnessed mass youth-led protests—sparked by the arrest of rapper Aamron (Tchala Essowè Narcisse)—with accusations of government repression and at least two youth deaths under unclear circumstances. Authorities blamed the deaths on drowning and promised investigations.
The elections were originally scheduled for July 10 but were postponed to July 17 following opposition demands for better preparation. Early voting for security forces took place on July 14, and elections covered 117 municipal councils. While some opposition parties boycotted the vote in protest, others—such as the National Alliance for Change (ANC)—chose to participate to maintain political relevance at the local level.
The elections were held under tight security, and borders were closed temporarily due to concerns about unrest. The situation remains tense, with concerns over democratic backsliding and the consolidation of power under Gnassingbé.
Credit: Africanews
Teniola Aladese Owns Netflix, YouTube, and Cinemas at Once
The Star Who Took Over Netflix, YouTube, and Cinemas in One Day
If movie stars are born and icons are made, then Teniola Aladese is living proof of both happening at once.
In an industry where most actors pray for one major release a year, Teniola took over three platforms in one single day.
In the ever-evolving world of African cinema, some stars shine quietly — until they explode across every screen, every platform, and every conversation. Right now, that star is Teniola Aladese.
On July 18, 2025, three major movie releases dropped across Netflix, YouTube, and cinemas — and Teniola was a main cast in all of them. Let that sink in. Not cameo appearances. Not side roles. But front-and-center performances in:
- To Kill a Monkey (Netflix), directed by Kemi Adetiba
- A Forever With Numbered Days (YouTube), by Bolaji Ogunmola
- Freedom Way (Cinemas), by Blessing Uzzi
It’s the kind of triple-threat dominance that only few in Hollywood even pull off — think Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Anya Taylor-Joy. And here’s Teniola, proving that Nollywood isn’t just catching up, it’s leading in talent, diversity, and depth.
What truly makes this moment special isn’t just that Teniola Aladese starred in three major films released on the same day — it’s that social media has been buzzing nonstop with praise for her standout performances in all of them. Casting her was a power move, and the producers and casting directors who saw her potential clearly saw the future. In every review, across platforms, Teniola’s name keeps coming up — not just as a cast member, but as the heartbeat of the stories. No bad ratings. No mixed feelings. Just high praise and proof that she’s that good.
What makes Teniola different? It’s not just her undeniable beauty or screen presence — it’s the work ethic, the range, the emotional intelligence she brings to every character. Whether it’s a gritty thriller, a romantic drama, or a social commentary, she doesn’t just act — she embodies. And that’s what great actors do.
Teniola is not “emerging” — she has arrived. Her face, voice, and performances are everywhere. And unlike passing trends, she’s showing staying power. In an industry that often puts women in a box, she’s breaking every mold with grace, grit, and talent that resonates beyond borders.
As conversations continue to place her name alongside global icons, one thing is clear:
Teniola Aladese isn’t just Nigeria’s breakout actress — she’s a global force rising from Nollywood, ready for any stage.
Watch her. Celebrate her.
Because this is just the beginning.
Bucci Franklin Earns 5-Star Praise in Netflix’s Crime Thriller To Kill a Monkey
Nigeria’s star Bucci Franklin is capturing major attention in the newly released Netflix crime series To Kill a Monkey. As the show gains momentum, viewers and critics alike are calling his performance a defining moment for Nigerian screen acting in 2025.
A Role That Commands Attention
In this gritty, layered cybercrime thriller directed by Kemi Adetiba, Bucci steps into the role of a complex, high-stakes character who serves as a catalyst for the protagonist’s descent into the digital underworld. His delivery is sharp, intense, and magnetic. Every scene he appears in feels heightened, with an emotional weight that demands attention. It’s a performance that goes beyond lines — Bucci inhabits his character with such conviction, it’s impossible to look away.
5-Star Reactions from Social Media
Social media has erupted in admiration for Bucci’s work. Twitter is filled with glowing reviews:
“Bucci Franklin is everything in To Kill a Monkey. Five-star performance!”
“That twist? That intensity? Bucci is in a league of his own!”
These comments are more than just hype. They reflect a growing consensus — this was not just a role, it was a moment.
Critics and Viewers Alike Applaud
Industry insiders and entertainment commentators are equally impressed. The series itself has been praised as one of the boldest African originals to hit Netflix in recent years, and Bucci’s performance is being singled out as one of its strongest assets. Surrounded by a stellar cast including Stella Damasus and Bimbo Akintola, Bucci doesn’t just hold his own — he shines.
Bucci Franklin is redefining what it means to be a leading man in Nollywood’s new wave. His portrayal in To Kill a Monkey is not only a breakout moment but a benchmark. He proves that Nigerian talent can deliver nuanced, world-class performances that resonate beyond borders. He isn’t just acting — he’s elevating the game.
To Kill a Monkey dropped on Netflix July 18, and Bucci Franklin’s performance is already being talked about as one of the standout performances of the year. If you haven’t watched it yet, now’s the time.
This is Bucci Franklin’s moment — and it’s only just beginning.
Israel Audu Is Building a Cultural Legacy Through Kaduna International Film Festival
In a rapidly expanding African film industry dominated by the glitz of Nollywood and the vibrancy of the South, a quiet revolution has been steadily building in Northern Nigeria. And at the heart of this cultural awakening is Israel Kashim Audu, the visionary founder and convener of the Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF) — a festival that has not only redefined Northern creative expression but also positioned Kaduna on the global cinematic map.
Since its inception, KADIFF has grown into a celebration of stories, talent, and heritage. From spotlighting underrepresented voices to creating a platform where young African filmmakers can shine, the festival has become a bridge between tradition and innovation, grassroots and global recognition.
In this exclusive Ranks Africa Spotlight, we sat down with Mr. Israel Kashim Audu to explore the movement he’s built, how he transitioned from an aspiring actor to one of Northern Nigeria’s most important cultural figures. He opens up about the challenges and triumphs of launching a major film festival in a region often overlooked in entertainment narratives, and why it’s crucial to tell our own stories, in our own way.
Read the full interview below as he shares the origin of KADIFF, what keeps him going, and his vision for the future of African cinema.
Q: Let’s start from the beginning. What inspired you to step into the world of film and storytelling?
Israel Audu: Growing up, I always dreamed of becoming an actor, but somewhere along the way, I realized that my true strength was behind the scenes building platforms, organizing, and pushing others into the spotlight. That administrative calling led me to embrace the role of a critical stakeholder in the creative space.
The big push came in 2017 when the Kaduna State Government approached me to coordinate a film festival for the centenary celebration. Although the event didn’t hold, it sparked something in me. In 2018, I took the bold step to independently launch what became the first edition of KADIFF with almost no money, no sponsors, just pure passion.
“We Started With Nothing But We Had a Dream.”
Q: KADIFF has grown significantly in just a few years. What do you believe is the secret behind that success?
Isreal Audu: Honestly, it’s been determination and grace. When I held the first edition in 2018, I had no funds. No program booklet, no media banners, nothing. I even lodged some guests without knowing how I’d pay the hotel bill. But I was committed. I knew that if I stayed consistent, people would see the vision.
Now, filmmakers from Europe, East Africa, and across Nigeria submit entries even before we launch calls. We’ve earned trust. We’ve earned respect. And more importantly, we’ve kept the doors open for others to shine.
“KADIFF is a Bridge for Creatives in the North.”
Q: In what ways has KADIFF impacted young creatives, filmmakers, and the northern film community?
Isreal Audu: We’ve created a learning and networking ecosystem. Every year, we bring veteran actors, directors, and industry professionals to Kaduna to mentor young talents for free. We’ve hosted masterclasses with the likes of Francis Duru, Theophilus Sunday, and Tonia Pocha.
Beyond that, KADIFF has been a springboard for marketing and collaboration. Some filmmakers didn’t win awards, but they secured distribution deals through our platform. More young people from the North are now submitting films and attending festivals the culture is catching on.
“We’re Closing the Visibility Gap for Northern Cinema.”
Q: Nollywood is booming, but the northern film industry still fights for visibility. How does KADIFF bridge that gap?
Isreal Audu: That’s been one of our core goals. KADIFF is not just a festival it’s a statement that Northern stories matter. We now see festivals springing up in places like Kano, Jos, and Kwara inspired by our lead. We’ve even sent out over 20 invitations to Ugandan filmmakers this year.
We bring everyone to the table regardless of language or region. Hausa, Igala, Yoruba, English all are welcome. We’re building a space where culture meets creativity and where no one is left behind.
“We Must Preserve Indigenous Languages in Film.”
Q: Do you think enough is being done to preserve indigenous languages and cultural narratives in Nigerian cinema?
Isreal Audu: Honestly, not enough but the tide is changing. At KADIFF, we’ve created a dedicated category for indigenous language films. We’ve also partnered with embassies to screen such films globally.
We need more platforms like Africa Magic Hausa and Yoruba, and more indigenous films shown in cinemas nationwide. Right now, it’s hard to watch a Hausa film in Lagos, and we don’t have enough cinemas in the North either. These are systemic issues, but we’re pushing for change.
“Partnerships Have Powered Our Growth.”
Q: What partnerships or collaborations have strengthened the festival’s mission?
Isreal Audu: The diplomatic community has been vital. Embassies from Rwanda, Trinidad & Tobago, and Uganda have not only attended but supported us directly. Organizations like My Culture Foundation and emerging creative banks are also coming on board. These partnerships bring both visibility and resources, and we’re grateful.
“Expect the Unexpected at KADIFF 2025.”
Q: What should we expect from the 2025 edition of KADIFF? Any surprises?
Isreal Audu: Absolutely. For the first time, we’re introducing skill acquisition workshops and a new voting category sponsored by MTN — five categories in total. There’ll be gift packs, industry link-ups, and several surprise guests. This year is designed to be bigger and bolder.“Believe in Yourself. Put Your Work Out There.”
Q: What advice would you give to young filmmakers and cultural entrepreneurs across Africa?
Isreal Audu: First — believe in your vision. Secondly, always submit your work to festivals. You don’t have to know anyone; if your film is good, it will speak for itself. Use social media to showcase your craft, tag industry leaders, and stay ready because you never know who’s watching.
Be open to correction, attend workshops, volunteer, and never stop learning. Film festivals are more than screenings they are marketplaces of ideas. That one opportunity can change your life. Just stay consistent. Never give up.
Closing Thoughts:
Isreal Audu is not just building a festival he’s shaping a cultural legacy. In a country as complex and diverse as Nigeria, his work reminds us that every region, every voice, and every language deserves a stage. As KADIFF prepares for its 2025 edition, one thing is clear: the North is not just rising it has arrived.
Follow KADIFF on Instagram @kadunafilmfestival | www.kadunafilmfestival.com