By Queen Kunde
Abuja is fast becoming the creative heartbeat of Africa, not just Nigeria’s political centre, according to the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud.
She made the statement at the closing ceremony and award night of the 2025 Zuma International Film Festival held at the Chida Event Centre in Utako, Abuja.
Mahmoud said the annual festival has helped expand the city’s cultural presence, attract visitors, support local businesses, and strengthen film production and training. She added that more countries now see film as a tool for shaping global narratives, promoting culture, and boosting economic growth.
“Our stories have travelled far beyond our borders, carrying our values, humour and resilience,” she said. “Nollywood has become one of the world’s most powerful cultural exports, influencing fashion, tourism, language and global perceptions of Nigeria and Africa.”
She praised organizers, filmmakers, actors, and producers for making the 15th edition of the festival a success.
Mahmoud reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to supporting the creative sector under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. She highlighted efforts to provide better infrastructure, build partnerships, encourage investment, and sustain platforms like the Zuma Film Festival.
Speaking on the festival theme, “Storytelling for Global Influence: Film as a Soft Power and Economic Force,” the Minister said film continues to play a critical role in diplomacy, cultural promotion, and national development. She noted that the FCT Administration is proud to co-host a festival that showcases Nigeria’s diverse talent to the world.
Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Film Corporation, and host of the festival, Dr. Ali Nuhu, said the impact of the creative sector keeps motivating the corporation to strengthen the festival each year.
He restated the commitment to improving Nigeria’s film industry and expanding cinema culture. “We have experienced creative excellence,” he said. “From our success so far, we will use Zuma 2026 and future editions to deepen conversations, build partnerships, boost co-production, and promote excellence.”
The ceremony ended with awards presented to outstanding filmmakers, content creators, children’s films, foreign films, sound designers, and others.