IOM, partners announce winners for 2nd edition of the Short Film Contest against trafficking in persons
CITIZENS COMPASS– The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) have announced the winners the Second Edition of the Annual Short Film Contest on Combatting Trafficking in Persons in Nigeria.
The second edition of the contest received over 30 entries from talented filmmakers across Nigeria. The entries were evaluated by a panel of judges comprising experts from the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, civil society organizations and the Nigerian film industry. The winners were announced on July 29, 2024, at a ceremony attended by Government officials, CSO representatives, the diplomatic corps and partners in the fight against trafficking in persons.
The first prize of $2,000 was awarded to Michael Atama for his film “Misled”, which depicts the harrowing journey of young Nigerian girls trafficked to Ghana.
The second prize of $1,000 was awarded to Grace Olubiyo for her film “Ireti” (The Promise), which narrates the ordeal of a family coming to terms with the trafficking of a child.
The third prize of a laptop was awarded to Erica Bale for her film “Dark Room”, a gripping film that centers on an 18-year-old girl, Chioma, who becomes entangled in the dangerous world of human trafficking.
The winning films have been recognized for their powerful messages, creative storytelling, and technical excellence. The filmmakers have demonstrated remarkable talent and skill in raising awareness and inspiring action against the scourge of human trafficking
“I would like to congratulate all the participants for their efforts and dedication to combat human trafficking through their art”, said Laurent De Boeck, IOM Nigeria Chief of Mission, during the awards ceremony. “Our actions have the power to change the world around us and inspire others in our lives to get up and take action too”, he added.
The 2024 Edition of the Short Film Contest on Combating Trafficking in Persons in Nigeria was supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of France in Nigeria.
