Zuma International Film Festival Emerges as Global Creative Hub, Says Nigerian Film Corporation


Abuja: The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has declared that the Zuma International Film Festival (ZUFF) has evolved into a global symbol of creativity, celebrating storytellers, filmmakers, and audiences who bring African narratives to life. Dr Ali Nuhu, Managing Director and Chief Executive of NFC, made this statement during a press conference in Abuja to unveil the 2025 Edition of the Zuma International Film Festival.



According to News Agency of Nigeria, the 2025 festival theme, ‘Storytelling for Global Influence: Film as a Soft Power and Economic Force,’ underscores the role of film in shaping perceptions, influencing culture, and building thriving creative economies. Nuhu emphasized that the festival serves as a reminder for Nigerians of the deeper purpose of film beyond entertainment, highlighting its role in preserving memory, history, and projecting national identity through creative storytelling and international collaboration.



Nuhu stated, “Zuma has always aimed to amplify Nigeria’s creative voice.” He noted that globally, film festivals connect ideas, people, and nations, creating platforms where culture meets economic opportunity. Nigerian films have traveled from local cinemas to international festivals in Berlin, Cairo, and Toronto, proving Africa’s creative voice is strong and globally respected.



Nuhu revealed that more than 3,156 films have been submitted for Zuma 2025, originating from countries such as Nigeria, India, France, China, Egypt, and the U.S., spanning various genres including features, shorts, animations, music videos, and indigenous-language content. He attributed the global embrace of Zuma to intentional leadership, partnerships, and consistent efforts in building a platform that welcomes diverse and bold storytelling.



He expressed gratitude towards the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, for supporting the sector through initiatives like the Creative Leap Acceleration Programme (CLAP) and Creative Economic Development Fund, which empower Nigeria’s creative future. The NFC also acknowledged the support of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, led by Minister Nyesom Wike and Minister of State Dr Mariya Mahmoud, for maintaining Abuja as the home for Zuma.



Nuhu thanked President Bola Tinubu for recognizing the creative sector’s role in national growth, noting that his administration’s policies have invigorated the industry with renewed energy, funding, and international recognition. He disclosed ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s film value chain through training programs, digitization projects, regional office expansion, and partnerships with global film archives. Nuhu invited filmmakers, investors, sponsors, and creative partners to collaborate in making Zuma 2025 a landmark event, stating, ‘Our doors are wide open for collaboration, support, and shared vision.’



Citing an African proverb, Nuhu remarked, ‘Until the lion learns to write, every story will glorify the hunter. Today, we are teaching our lions to write, with cameras, scripts, and vision.’ Musawa added that the festival now symbolizes global creative influence and praised the Tinubu-led government for positioning film as a key driver of Nigeria’s economic transformation and soft power. She noted that the creation of dedicated screen-related policies and funding mechanisms reflects the administration’s commitment to empowering the audiovisual and film production sectors for sustainable growth.



Festival Director Mrs Halima Oyelade remarked that the 2025 edition promises to celebrate cinematic excellence. She applauded the NFC boss for his visionary leadership and unwavering support for creative storytelling, stating, ‘Zuma exists because of your stories, your resilience, and your creativity.’ Oyelade also expressed gratitude to sponsors and partners for making the festival’s vision possible.