Abuja is fast emerging as a vibrant hub for arts, culture, and creative expression, beyond its role as Nigeria’s political capital, FCT Minister of State Dr. Mariya Mahmoud has declared.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 15th Zuma International Film Festival at Chida Event Centre, Utako, Dr. Mahmoud praised the festival for enhancing the city’s cultural footprint, attracting tourists, supporting local businesses, and promoting film production and training.
Special Adviser on Media, Austin Elemue in a statement quoted her to have highlighted the power of storytelling in shaping narratives, promoting diplomacy, and driving economic growth. “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 influential cultural exports, shaping fashion, tourism, language, and global perceptions of Nigeria and Africa,” she said.
Dr. Mahmoud commended organizers, filmmakers, actors, and producers for a successful 15th edition and reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to foster a thriving creative economy. She outlined ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, strengthen partnerships, and provide investment-friendly regulations to support filmmakers.
The Managing Director and CEO of the Nigerian Film Corporation, Dr. Ali Nuhu, who also hosted the festival, lauded its impact on Nigeria’s creative ecosystem, promising future editions would further strengthen collaborations, boost co-productions, and reward excellence.
The event culminated with awards recognizing the best filmmakers, content creators, children’s films, foreign films, sound design, and other outstanding contributions to the industry.
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