• Zuma International Film Festival 2024 begins in Abuja
Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy Minister Hanatu Musawa has said the film cinema remains a tool for promoting national unity.
Musawa, who spoke at the ongoing 14th edition of the Zuma International Film Festival (ZUFF) in Abuja, said the film cinema is a special form of art that fosters unity among people from diverse backgrounds.
This year’s five-day ZUFF with the theme: Digital Renaissance: Embracing the Future, started on December 1 and ends today. It highlights the transformative role of technology in the evolution of cinema.
The minister, who was represented by the Special Adviser to the President on Creativity, Mr. Prince Baba Agba, expressed optimism about the festival’s role in achieving the “Destination Nigeria 2030” vision.
She said: “Film cinema has a very special place. It’s a special form of art. It helps us come together. It helps us communicate who we are, tell our stories, and learn more about each other.
“So, I would just encourage everyone to please participate fully.”
The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), Dr. Alli Nuhu, described the cinema as a tool for cultural exchange and societal change.
Nuhu, who also doubled as the Chairman of the festival’s Central Planning Committee, said: “Cinema, from the Nigerian perspective, is more than just entertainment. It is a profound collective activity that celebrates heritage and fosters global unity.”
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The NFC boss noted that the theme for this year’s festival underscored the pivotal role of digital technology in connecting Nigerian filmmakers to global audiences.
He described the “Digital Renaissance” as a call to leverage emerging technologies to enhance storytelling and amplify Nigerian voices worldwide.
“It is a call to adapt to the changing landscape of digital media, harness the power of technology to tell our stories, showcase our culture, and promote our values. By doing so, we can truly embrace the future.
“Digital technology has not only democratised filmmaking, giving a voice to the voiceless, but it has also expanded the horizons of our imagination, allowing us to explore new realms and push the boundaries of our creativity.” Dr. Nuhu said.
The NFC boss praised the Nigerian film industry for its economic impact and cultural contributions, bolstered by events like the ZUFF.
“Our unwavering commitment to hosting this festival annually is a testament to the belief in the transformative power of cinema. The economic impact of past editions has sparked increased interest and stakeholder participation in Nigeria’s film industry. The support from our domestic and international partners has been instrumental in achieving the festival’s objectives.”
Dr. Nuhu urged practitioners to always tell stories that unite the country.
“Let us tell stories that matter; stories that heal, inspire, and unite,” he added.
The NFC boss noted that with an impressive programme and a strong focus on innovation, this year’s festival promised to set a new benchmark for celebrating African cinema on the global stage.