FCT Minister Dr. Mariya Hails Abuja’s Growing Influence in Arts, Film at Zuma Festival
FCT Minister Dr. Mariya Hails Abuja’s Growing Influence in Arts, Film at Zuma Festival
FCT Minister Dr. Mariya Hails Abuja’s Growing Influence in Arts, Film at Zuma Festival
Abuja is increasingly asserting itself as more than just Nigeria’s political capital—it is becoming a thriving center for arts, culture, and creative expression, FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has said.
Speaking at the closing ceremony and award night of the 2025 Zuma International Film Festival at Chida Event Centre, Utako, Abuja, Dr. Mahmoud highlighted the festival’s role in enhancing the city’s cultural footprint, attracting visitors, supporting local businesses, and promoting film production and training.
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She emphasized the global influence of Nigeria’s film industry, noting, “Our stories have travelled far beyond our borders, carrying with them 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.”
Dr. Mahmoud commended the organizers, filmmakers, actors, and producers for their dedication in making the 15th edition a success and reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to support the creative economy. She outlined ongoing efforts to foster a conducive environment for filmmakers through infrastructure improvements, partnerships, investment-friendly regulations, and platforms like the Zuma Film Festival.
On the festival’s theme, “Storytelling for Global Influence: Film as a Soft Power and Economic Force,” the Minister stressed the importance of film as a tool for diplomacy, cultural promotion, and economic growth, noting that the FCT Administration is proud to co-host the event, which continues to showcase the diversity and brilliance of Nigerian talent globally.
Earlier, Dr. Ali Nuhu, Managing Director/CEO of the Nigerian Film Corporation and host of the festival, remarked on the sector’s positive impact on Nigeria’s creative ecosystem. He reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to advancing film production and cinema activities. “From the success so far, we intend to use Zuma 2026 and future editions to sustain conversations, strengthen partnerships, boost co-production, and create opportunities to connect, promote, and reward excellence,” he said.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards across multiple categories, including best filmmakers, content creators, children’s film, foreign film, and best sound, celebrating outstanding achievements in Nigerian cinema.
FCT Minister Dr. Mariya Hails Abuja’s Growing Influence in Arts, Film at Zuma Festival
