The Federal Government has described the Zuma International Film Festival (ZUFF) as a premier platform for celebrating creativity, talent, and the transformative potential of storytelling in Nigeria.
Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), made the remarks during the festival’s closing and awards night on Saturday in Abuja.
She highlighted the festival’s role in positioning Abuja as a cultural hub while applauding organisers, filmmakers, actors, producers, and partners for making the 15th edition a success.
“The theme of this year, ‘Storytelling for Global Influence: Film as a Soft Power and Economic Force,’ reflects the growing recognition of film as a tool for shaping narratives, enhancing diplomacy, promoting cultural identity, and driving economic growth,” Mahmoud said.
She noted that Nollywood has become one of Nigeria’s strongest cultural exports, influencing fashion, tourism, language, and international perceptions of the country and Africa.
She emphasised that supporting the creative economy aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, creating jobs, encouraging entrepreneurship, and fostering youth innovation.
Mahmoud encouraged policymakers to provide infrastructure, partnerships, and regulations that enable filmmakers to thrive.
Also speaking, Hannatu Musawu, Minister for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy (represented by Aisha Augie of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Culture), congratulated participants for producing films that transcend borders and promote understanding.
She noted that cinema serves as a tool for cultural diplomacy, economic growth, and global influence.
The ministers urged continued investment in youth and women empowerment, innovation in areas like animation, streaming, documentaries, and digital storytelling, and collaboration to strengthen Nigeria’s film industry.
“Zuma Film Festival reinforces Nigeria’s position as a centre of African storytelling and a rising hub for international collaboration, co-production, and creative enterprise,” Musawu said.
