The Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, has officially announced the start of the 2024 Zuma International Film Festival (ZIFF) at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday.
Musawa lauded the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) for its dedication to the festival, noting that film festivals are vital in elevating local film industries and positioning them on the global stage.
She stressed that ZIFF 2024 will play a crucial role in fostering collaboration and innovation in Nigerian filmmaking.
A statement by the special Adviser on Media and Publicity quoted the Minister to have stated,
“Film festivals drive collaboration and development in the industry. ZUMA helps to spotlight our country’s film industry internationally. We are fully committed to making ZUMA a premier festival that showcases Nigeria’s talent and places us at the forefront of global filmmaking,” Musawa said.
The statement indicated that 2024 festival, themed Digital Renaissance: Embracing the Future, will focus on how digital technology is reshaping the film industry.
Musawa emphasized that the festival is aligned with the government’s goals of job creation, investment attraction, and fostering innovation in the creative sector.
The Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John, expressed confidence that Nigerian films will soon achieve global recognition, stating, “I hope that Nigerian films will one day win prestigious awards like the Oscars.”
Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Mariya Mahmud, urged the Nigerian film industry to create lasting frameworks that will outlive the current administration and continue to contribute to its growth.
Nigerian Film Corporation’s Managing Director, Dr. Ali Nuhu, highlighted the festival’s significance, stating, “ZIFF is a milestone in the growth of Nollywood and Nigeria’s creative economy. It empowers youth, creates jobs, and builds cross-border collaboration.”
He revealed that over 3,120 film submissions have been received from countries including Nigeria, Iran, India, the USA, Spain, and France.
The 2024 Zuma International Film Festival will take place from December 1-5, 2024, at Jabi Lake Mall in Abuja. The event will feature a variety of activities, including an Annual Film Lecture by Vice President Kashim Shettima, discussions on Artificial Intelligence in Filmmaking, a Women in Film Forum, and the prestigious Zuma Award Night.
With its strong international presence and the theme of digital transformation, ZIFF 2024 promises to be a landmark event for filmmakers, industry professionals, and investors.