Abuja: ‘Zuma Film Festival platform for celebrating creativity, talents’

The Federal Government said that the annual Zuma International Film Festival (ZUFF) is Nigeria’s most prestigious platform for celebrating creativity, talent and the transformative power of storytelling. Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), stated this at the closing and award night of the 2025 Zuma International Film Festival weekend in Abuja. […]

The Federal Government said that the annual Zuma International Film Festival (ZUFF) is Nigeria’s most prestigious platform for celebrating creativity, talent and the transformative power of storytelling.

Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), stated this at the closing and award night of the 2025 Zuma International Film Festival weekend in Abuja.

According to her, the Federal Capital Territory Administration was proud to co-host this remarkable festival, which continues to position Abuja as the cultural heartbeat of our nation.

Mohmoud commended the organisers, partners, filmmakers, actors, producers, and the entire creative community, whose hard work and dedication have made this 15th edition a resounding success.

“The theme of this edition, ‘Storytelling for Global Influence: Film as a Soft Power and Economic Force,’ can not be more relevant.

“Around the world, nations increasingly recognise the film industry as a tool for shaping narratives, strengthening diplomacy, promoting cultural identity, and driving economic prosperity and Nigeria is no exception.

“Our stories have travelled far beyond our borders, carrying our values, humour, resilience and collective spirit.
“Nollywood has become one of the world’s most powerful cultural exports, influencing fashion, tourism, language, and global perceptions of Nigeria and Africa.

”This is why the administration of President Tinubu continues to support the creative economy as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“The creative sector generates employment, fuels entrepreneurship, expands the digital economy and opens doors for youth innovation,” she said.

The minister further said that as policymakers, they remain committed to creating an enabling environment where filmmakers could thrive through improved infrastructure, partnerships, regulations that encourage investment, and platforms such as this festival. (NAN)
” For us in the FCT, Abuja is not just the political capital, it is also a growing hub for arts, culture and creative expression.

“Events like the Zuma film festival deepen our cultural footprint, attract visitors, promote local businesses and position the FCT as a destination for film production, training, and global collaborations.

“Tonight, as we celebrate exceptional films and honour outstanding talents, we recognise the responsibility that comes with storytelling. Every script, frame, and character contributes to shaping how the world sees us and how we see ourselves.