The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has announced that it has received 3,120 submissions for the upcoming Zuma International Film Festival (ZUFF).
The submissions, which came from filmmakers across Nigeria, Iran, India, the United States, Spain, and France, were received ahead of the festival’s 14th edition, set to take place from December 1 to 5 in Abuja.
The NFC made this announcement during a press briefing held to unveil the official logo and theme for this year’s event, “Digital Renaissance: Embracing the Future,” in Abuja.
The NFC’s Managing Director and Chief Executive, Dr. Ali Nuhu, highlighted the importance of ZUFF not only as a film festival but also as a platform that drives Nigeria’s cultural and creative economy forward.
Dr. Nuhu emphasized the festival’s impact, saying, “The Zuma International Film Festival is more than an event. It is a movement that promotes Nigeria’s cultural and creative economy. The festival creates jobs, empowers the youth, and fosters collaborations across borders.”
He noted that the 2024 edition focuses on the transformative power of digital technology in filmmaking, showcasing the potential for digital innovation in the industry.
“With over 3,120 film submissions from countries, including Nigeria, Iran, India, the U.S.A., Spain, and France, we aim to celebrate the global impact of digital filmmaking,” Nuhu added.
In a bid to ensure the highest standards for the festival, the NFC has announced that esteemed filmmaker and actress Stephanie Okereke Linus will serve as a jury member, alongside other distinguished international film experts.
The inclusion of Linus, a celebrated figure in Nollywood, is expected to bring a wealth of experience and credibility to the selection process.
Speaking at the unveiling, Nigeria’s Minister of Art and Tourism, Hanatu Musawa, expressed the significance of the festival for Nigeria’s creative industries.
“This year’s film festival is a pivotal moment for our creative ecosystem,” Musawa said.
She further highlighted that Vice President Kashim Shettima will deliver the keynote lecture at the event.
According to Musawa, the lecture, titled “Digital Ecosystem Redefining African Cinema”, will explore how digital technology is transforming the film industry.
“The lecture will address how digital solutions are driving job creation, wealth generation, and regional trade,” she explained.
“It aims to position Nigeria not just as Africa’s creative hub but as a global cultural force.”
Musawa emphasized the critical role of the digital ecosystem in revitalizing African cinema, stating, “This is a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s creative and cultural industries. The world is increasingly captivated by our talent and our stories, and the Vice President’s lecture will highlight the importance of embracing digital solutions to push our industry forward.”
She added that the Nigerian government is committed to creating an enabling environment for the creative sector. “We are implementing supportive policies, engaging in international agreements, and developing digital platforms that will allow our stories to reach global audiences,” Musawa said.
The minister also expressed her gratitude to key figures in the government for their continued support.
Furthermore, she thanked the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and the Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, for their collaboration with the NFC in organizing the festival.
“Abuja is becoming the cultural and creative heart of the country,” Musawa noted, highlighting the significance of hosting ZUFF in the nation’s capital.
The 2024 Zuma International Film Festival is expected to draw significant attention from industry professionals, filmmakers, and enthusiasts both locally and internationally.
With its emphasis on digital innovation, the festival seeks to position Nigeria as a leader in the global film industry, showcasing its talent and stories to a wider audience.
The NFC’s commitment to expanding the reach of Nigerian cinema and the government’s supportive policies are crucial steps toward achieving this goal. As preparations continue, all eyes are set on Abuja for what promises to be a landmark event for African cinema.
