Submissions are now being accepted for the 2025 IOM Short Film Contest, an initiative held annually in conjunction with World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, observed on 30 July. This global event serves as a moment to reflect on both the progress and ongoing challenges in combating human trafficking. It unites voices across society—from creatives to policymakers—to raise awareness and foster action. This year’s theme, “Human trafficking is Organized Crime – End the Exploitation,” highlights the critical importance of strengthening law enforcement and justice systems to dismantle trafficking networks, all while prioritizing victim-centered approaches.

Organized by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), this contest is part of its wider national campaign in Nigeria aimed at addressing human trafficking. Now in its third edition since its 2023 launch, the competition offers a platform for Nigerian youth and creatives to engage with the issue of trafficking, and to contribute through storytelling to the fight against exploitation, injustice, and inequality.

Open to Nigerians under the age of 35, the contest seeks to involve aspiring filmmakers and young creatives with a passion for human rights, migration, social justice, and counter-trafficking narratives. While individuals featured in the submitted films can be of any age, the production must reflect the perspective and voice of young Nigerian filmmakers. Those submitting a video must have played an active role in its creation, whether through directing, writing, filming, editing, performing, or managing the project.

Winning films will be awarded cash prizes, with the top submission receiving $2,500, the second-place film earning $1,500, and the third receiving $1,000. Entries can span any genre—including but not limited to documentary, animation, comedy, or music video—so long as the content stimulates critical reflection on the realities of human trafficking in Nigeria.

Participants must submit their films in digital format, preferably in MOV or MP4, with high-definition (1920x1080) quality encouraged but not mandatory. To enter, applicants must first complete an online registration form, providing all required details. Videos must be uploaded to a public or unlisted video-sharing platform such as YouTube, and the link must be submitted through the form. Entries with missing information or inaccessible video links will be disqualified.