Abuja Film Festival to Attract Foreign Investment – Minister

The Minister of State for Nigerian Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Ramatu Aliyu has hinted that the forthcoming Zuma Film Festival would boost tourism and strengthen investment opportunities in the nation’s capital Abuja.

Briefing Journalists ahead of the 12th edition of the festival slated next month in Abuja, the minister said the FCT Administration will leverage on windows of cooperation with the Nigerian Film Corporation to harness the opportunities created by the festival to develop abundant local talents in the city.

The Minister disclosed that Abuja was rapidly garnering a reputation as a pleasant tourist destination with its rich cultural mix, beautiful sights and a bustling entertainment industry.

Mrs Aliyu who was represented by the Director Operation Planning and Strategy, office of the Permanent Secretary, Mr Samuel Atang, disclosed that the administration intend to use the programme to further ensure sustainable development of the indigenous film industry.

According to him,”We intend to sustain using the Zuma Film Festival as a springboard. We use the programme to develop our indigenous film industry with the ultimate aim of making Abuja, the film and creative hub for Africa using the festival as a catalyst.

“The collaboration between the FCTA and the NFC will not only ensure a bigger and better Zuma Film Festival but will also provide residents of Abuja investment opportunities in the nation’s creative economy”.

On his part, the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Film Corporation, Dr. Chidia Maduekwe said the partnership between NFC and FCTA will bring about total transformation of the film, cinema and tourism activities of the nation especially within Abuja.

“At the NFC, we are resolved to deepen and develop the Nigerian Film industry. Within the broad and specific mandate of developing the Nigeria film industry, NFC remains committed to engaging its key partners at all levels” he said.

The MD said adequate security measures have been put in place for the safety of visitors within and outside the country, for the seven days festival.

Emmanuel Ukoh