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From Kenneth Udeh , Abuja
The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has officially announced the 2025 edition of the Zuma International Film Festival (ZUFF), reaffirming its commitment to positioning Nigeria as Africa’s leading creative hub and a global centre for cinematic excellence.
The world press conference, held on Monday at the Vento Showroom, Jabi Lake Mall, Abuja, brought together stakeholders from the film industry, government agencies, and international partners.
In his keynote address, Managing Director and Chief Executive of the NFC, Dr. Ali Nuhu said the 2025 festival scheduled to hold from December 1st to 5th in Abuja would build on its legacy as a platform for cultural exchange, investment, and global storytelling.
“Since its debut in 1993, the Zuma International Film Festival has become a living symbol of our creative pride a celebration of the stories that define us, the filmmakers who give them life, and the audiences who carry them forward,” Nuhu said.
He emphasized that film, for the NFC, transcends entertainment and serves as “memory, history, and soft power” capable of shaping global perceptions of Nigeria.
This year’s festival theme, “Storytelling for Global Influence: Film as a Soft Power and Economic Force,” he explained, underscores the importance of using film as a tool for cultural diplomacy and economic growth.
“Nigeria’s stories have travelled far from cinemas in Lagos to festivals in Berlin, Toronto, and Cairo. Our films have challenged stereotypes and proven that Africa’s creative strength is no longer a whisper it is a roar,” he declared.
According to Dr. Nuhu, over 3,156 films have been submitted for the 2025 edition from countries including Nigeria, India, France, China, South Africa, Egypt, the United States, Spain, Germany, Tunisia, and Iran.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose administration has continued to recognize the creative sector as a vital part of Nigeria’s economy, and to Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, for her steadfast support of the NFC and the creative sector’s advancement.
“When leadership invests in art, a nation invests in its identity,” he added, while also thanking the Federal Capital Territory Administration, led by Barrister Nyesom Wike and Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, for co-hosting the event.
Dr. Nuhu further urged stakeholders, investors, and the creative community to partner with the NFC in making the upcoming festival a defining moment for African cinema.
“As we begin the countdown to December 1st, I invite filmmakers, investors, and enthusiasts to join us. Together, we can make Zuma 2025 a landmark event that defines the next chapter of African cinema,” he said.
In her remarks, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, lauded the NFC for its consistency and vision in sustaining the Zuma Festival as a premier film event that drives Nigeria’s creative economy.
“Nigeria’s film industry, widely known as Nollywood, remains an asset that reflects the richness of our cultural heritage,” the Minister said. “Its impact continues to resonate across the country and beyond.”
She noted that the Tinubu administration’s unwavering support for the creative sector has strengthened initiatives such as IDICE, CLAP, and the Creative Economic Development Fund (CEDF), designed to create jobs and stimulate sustainable growth in the creative economy.
“Zuma International Film Festival is not only about cinema; it is about strengthening investment opportunities and positioning Nigeria’s film industry globally,” Musawa explained. “The theme for this year is apt—it highlights our drive to make Nigerian storytelling a global brand.”
The Minister also commended Nigerian filmmakers for their innovation and resilience, acknowledging their role in projecting the nation’s image positively worldwide.
“Our filmmakers have embraced the fast-paced digital transformation, making Nigerian storytelling compelling, exciting, and accessible to millions globally,” she stated.
Musawa announced that the 2025 Zuma Festival will feature a robust lineup of curated events, including: The NFC Film Annual Lecture, The Emerging Talent Showcase, The Film Trade & Finance Forum, Co-Production and Pitching Sessions, Daily Screenings, and The prestigious ZUMA Awards Night.
She urged the public, filmmakers, investors, and international partners to participate fully, describing the festival as a major opportunity to “reshape Nigeria’s film landscape and open new frontiers for growth.”
“Together, we can amplify the voice of Nigerian and African cinema to the world,” the Minister concluded. “I look forward to welcoming you in Abuja this December for an exciting and impactful event.”
The 2025 Zuma International Film Festival is organized by the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) in partnership with the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA). It promises to be a convergence point for filmmakers, policymakers, investors, and creative entrepreneurs across Africa and the world.
