The Nigerian government said the annual Zuma International Film Festival (ZUFF) has proclaimed its reputation as Nigeria’s most prestigious platform for celebrating creativity, talent, and the transformative power of storytelling.
Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Mariya Mahmoud, stated this at the closing and award night of the 2025 Zuma International Film Festival in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
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According to her, the Federal Capital Territory Administration is proud to co-host this remarkable festival, which continues to position Abuja as the cultural heartbeat of our nation.
She added that the Zuma Festival is to showcase Nigerian talent, boost local businesses, and promote film training. Related efforts include the Abuja Art Fair, signalling the city’s rise as a deliberate creative hub with art centres and residencies.
Mrs 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.
She said, “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 added.
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.
“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. So, let us use this power intentionally, responsibly and boldly,” she said.
The Minister congratulated the award recipients, adding that their work is not only to entertain them, but also to elevate the nation’s voice on the global stage.
“To those who did not win tonight, your contributions remain invaluable. Keep pushing boundaries, keep telling our stories and keep lighting the path for future generations.
“As this festival comes to a close, I encourage all stakeholders to continue building collaborations, nurturing young talents, investing in innovation, and exploring new frontiers, particularly in animation, streaming, documentary filmmaking, and digital storytelling, she explained.
“The 2025 Zuma International Film Festival has been a showcase of brilliance, diversity and possibility. Let us leave here inspired to strengthen the Nigerian story and amplify our soft power through film,” she stressed.
Also speaking, the Minister for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, congratulated the creators, producers, sponsors, and delegates for making the event a powerful celebration of storytelling, culture, and hospitality.
She said the festival has made the creative sector witness amazing films and also experience the strength of stories to transcend borders, build bridges of understanding and shape the world’s view of both Nigerians and Africans.
Under this year’s theme, “Storytelling from Global Influence: Film as a Soft Power and Economic Force”, as well as the master class, it has reaffirmed what we have not known: that cinema is beyond the global stage.
“Cinema is beyond entertainment. It is our diplomacy, heritage, voice and a vital engine for economic growth.
Through both narratives and creative excellence, Nigerian filmmakers continue to use the power of film as a tool for cultural diplomacy and economic transformation,” she said
Musawa said that the festival was a testament to growing global influence and to Nigeria’s universal stories.
“Zuma Film Festival is reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a centre of African storytelling and as a rising hub for international collaboration, co-production, and creative enterprise, just as you can see from the various people in the hall.
To our filmmakers, your vision, courage and commitment continue to define the evolving contours of our creative industry,” she added.
The Minister urged everyone to join forces in building a film industry that reflects the richness of Nigeria’s heritage, culture, empowers the youth and women and projects the country’s shared humanity.
She was represented by the Director-General of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Culture, Aishat Augie.
In his remarks, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Nigerian Film Corporation and host of the Zuma International Film Festival, Dr Ali Nuhu, noted that the positive impact the sector exerts on Nigeria’s creative ecosystem continues to inspire the corporation in hosting the annual Zuma International Film Festival.
He used the occasion to reaffirm the commitment to bettering Nigeria’s film industry for the promotion and growth of film production and cinema activities.
“Obviously, we have been transported into the world of creative excellence, with nothing short of exceptional experiences.
“From the success so far, we intend to use Zuma 2026 and those thereafter to sustain conversations, strengthen partnerships, and boost co-production, creating a perfect opportunity to connect, promote, and reward excellence,” he stressed.
The high point of the event was the presentation of awards to the best filmmakers, content creators, best children’s film, best foreign film, best sound, and others.