The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has highlighted the growing impact of the Zuma International Film Festival (ZUFF), noting that the annual event is helping to expand cultural exchange, attract investment, and enhance the creative value chain from conception to cinema distribution.
Dr. Ali Nuhu, Managing Director of the NFC, made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the 15th edition of ZUFF on Monday in Abuja. Nuhu, who also serves as the festival’s chief executive chairman, explained that this year’s theme, “Storytelling for Global Influence: Film as a Soft Power and Economic Force,” underscores the role of film beyond entertainment.
He said the festival continues to reflect the identity of Nigerians as storytellers, cultural custodians, and creative innovators whose voices resonate across continents.
“Gathering here today is an affirmation of that identity,” he said, adding that the influence of Nigerian and African stories on global culture has never been stronger.
According to Nuhu, Nigerian narratives circulating across borders and digital platforms are shaping global conversations, generating curiosity, and creating avenues for new partnerships.
He described this as a blend of diplomacy, heritage, and economic strategy, reflecting how nations use storytelling to build bridges and shape global perceptions.
He reaffirmed that the festival is designed to strengthen the creative value chain, adding that this year’s edition was curated to deepen the process from development to distribution.
Activities include masterclasses, co-production sessions, exhibitions, discussions, national day showcases by foreign embassies, and free film screenings—all aimed at expanding opportunities for industry practitioners.
Nuhu expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, the FCT Administration led by Barr. Nyesom Wike, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musawa, and other partners for their support.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the National Assembly Committees on Art, Culture and Creative Economy, as well as international partners from China, Germany, Spain, Iran, and South Africa.
He thanked sponsors, guilds, and associations for their commitment, noting that their support continues to drive the growth and global relevance of the festival.
“As this edition opens, I encourage filmmakers, investors, policymakers, scholars, and enthusiasts to fully engage with the conversations and creative exchanges that ZUFF offers,” he said.
Also speaking, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa—represented by Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC)—commended the international participation in this year’s festival. She expressed pride in Nollywood’s evolution, noting that its growth was built on disruption and resilience.
Asika urged industry pioneers to document the history of Nollywood to ensure their achievements are properly recorded. Speaking further as NCAC DG, he called for stronger government support to encourage broadcasters, producers, and media organisations to spotlight the story of Nollywood itself—not just the stories Nollywood creates.
Dr. Shaibu Husseini, Director-General of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), emphasised that film should be recognised as both soft power and an economic driver. He encouraged stakeholders to explore ways to expand Nigeria’s global presence through cinema.
The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Nigeria, Mr. Gholamreza Mahdavi Raga, said the festival fosters cultural connections and strengthens global relationships. He noted that Iran participated with two films and an educational webinar to share its artistic heritage and support emerging filmmakers.
Mr. Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Center, also highlighted the power of film to enhance mutual understanding and deepen friendships across nations. He congratulated the NFC for hosting the festival and expressed optimism that this year’s edition would strengthen cultural ties.
The 15th edition of ZUFF opened with renewed optimism, reinforcing its role as a platform where global creativity, partnership, and cultural diplomacy continue to flourish.