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From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja
The 15th Edition of the Zuma International Film Festival (ZUMA 2025) in Abuja, Nigeria, marked a significant milestone for the country’s cinematic community, as key stakeholders gathered to discuss the future of Nigerian and African cinema as global economic and cultural powerhouses.
With the theme, “Storytelling for Global Influence: Film as a Soft Power and Economic Force,” the festival underscored the growing recognition of film as a tool not only for entertainment but also for diplomacy, heritage preservation, and economic strategy.
In his welcome address, Dr. Ali Nuhu, Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), reaffirmed the role of cinema in shaping perceptions, fostering international partnerships, and driving economic development. “Zuma is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of our identity as storytellers, innovators, and cultural ambassadors. Our stories are influencing global culture more than ever before, and this momentum continues to open doors for new collaborations,” Dr. Nuhu said, adding that the festival is a platform for discussing how film can strengthen the creative value chain from development to distribution.
Dr. Nuhu also emphasized that the festival’s curatorial efforts ranging from masterclasses and co-production forums to business sessions and national days by foreign embassies are all aimed at building stronger partnerships and creating more opportunities for Nigerian filmmakers on the global stage.
“Film is a diplomatic tool, an economic force, and a bridge for cultural exchange,” he continued, highlighting the importance of unlocking new opportunities for creatives in the industry.
Among the distinguished speakers at the festival was Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), who spoke on the significance of storytelling in shaping both the narrative of Nollywood and its global impact.
Representing Hannatu Musa Musawa, Nigeria’s Minister for Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Asika noted that Nollywood’s journey from VHS technology in 1993 to a billion-dollar industry in 2025 is a testament to the power of disruptive storytelling.
“Nollywood was a disruptor in 1992, and it continues to create waves of change in the global film industry. But we must document our own stories, or others will come and tell them for us,” Asika stressed. He also commended the introduction of an internal jury for the festival, which he said will ensure the integrity and depth of Nigerian storytelling.
Adding an international dimension to the event, Eva Barta, a representative of the Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, highlighted the longstanding relationship between Spain and the festival.
She expressed her enthusiasm about Nigerian filmmakers and delegations visiting Spain this year, hoping it would lead to deeper collaborations between the two nations’ film industries. “The relationship between the festival and Spain is long-standing, and we are hopeful that this will open up even more opportunities for cultural exchange and partnerships in the future,” Barta said.
The festival’s global appeal was further enhanced by the participation of international partners from China, Germany, Iran, and South Africa, showcasing the growing interest in Nigerian cinema as an influential force in global filmmaking.
The event also culminated in a special screening of the action-packed Nollywood film “Safari”, directed by the prolific Obi Emelonye. The movie, which featured a stellar cast including Ali Nuhu, Jide Kene, and Osas Ighodaro, offered a glimpse into the dynamic talent emerging from Nollywood. The screening was a fitting finale to the festival’s celebration of Nigerian cinema’s growing influence on the global stage.
The 15th edition of the Zuma International Film Festival has reaffirmed the importance of Nigerian cinema as a key player in the global cultural and economic landscape. With a clear focus on strengthening international relationships, fostering creative partnerships, and elevating the voices of African filmmakers, ZUMA 2025 has once again solidified its role as a central hub for discussions on the future of film, both as an art form and an economic force.
NFC’s Vision for Global Film Influence: Dr. Ali Nuhu underscored the festival’s role in unlocking opportunities for Nigerian filmmakers and exploring film as a cultural and economic tool.
Obi Asika’s Address: Highlighted Nollywood’s disruption of the global film industry and the importance of documenting Nigerian stories authentically.
Spain-Nigeria Collaboration: Eva Barta expressed hope for continued cultural exchange and partnerships between Spain and Nigerian filmmakers.
Screening of “Safari”: Directed by Obi Emelonye, the film featured leading Nollywood stars and concluded the festival on a high note.
The future of Nigerian cinema looks brighter than ever, as Zuma 2025 has once again demonstrated the immense potential of film as a global force for cultural diplomacy, economic growth, and international collaboration.
