FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has declared Abuja is not only Nigeria’s political headquarters but also a fast-rising continental capital for arts, culture, film and creative expression.
The minister made the assertion at the closing ceremony and award night of the 2025 Zuma International Film Festival held at the Chida Event Centre, Utako.
This was contained in a statemeent by Austine Elemue, Special Adviser on Media to the minister of state on Saturday.
Mahmoud said Abuja’s creative energy has expanded beyond government institutions, positioning the city as a centre that now attracts filmmakers, investors, tourists and global audiences seeking authentic African narratives.
“This festival strengthens our cultural footprint, supports local businesses, boosts film production and training, and places Abuja firmly on the global creative map,” she stated.
The minister noted that more countries are recognising cinema as a potent instrument of soft power, national branding and diplomatic influence, stressing that Nigeria must continue to advance its creative edge.
“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,” Mahmoud added.
She commended the organisers, filmmakers, actors, producers and investors for sustaining the 15th edition, describing the showing as a testament to talent, innovation and dedication powering Nigeria’s film economy.
Reaffirming the federal government’s commitment under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Mahmoud said the administration will continue to promote investment-friendly regulations, infrastructure support, partnerships and platforms such as the Zuma Film Festival to boost the creative economy and expand job opportunities.
Speaking on the festival’s theme: “Storytelling for Global Influence: Film as a Soft Power and Economic Force,” she said cinema remains a strategic tool for diplomacy, identity projection and economic growth, adding that Abuja is proud to co-host a platform that consistently showcases Nigerian brilliance to the world.
Earlier, Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) and host of the festival, Dr. Ali Nuhu, said the sustained impact of the sector on Nigeria’s creative landscape continues to inspire the corporation’s commitment to annually hosting Zuma.
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“We have been transported into the world of creative excellence with nothing short of exceptional experiences,” Nuhu said.
He hinted at plans to elevate the 2026 edition, with strengthened co-production networks, international conversations, industry partnerships and bigger incentives for filmmakers.
“From the success so far, we intend to use Zuma 2026 and those thereafter to sustain conversations, strengthen partnerships, boost co-production, and create opportunities to connect, promote and reward excellence,” he stressed.
The night climaxed with awards presented across multiple categories, including Best Filmmaker, Best Foreign Film, Best Sound, Best Children’s Film and Best Content Creator.
