Participants at a cross-section of the 13th Zuma Film Festival (ZFF) held on Friday at the International Conference Centre in Abuja. Image: NANThe Federal Capital Territory's (FCT) Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed the administration's pledge to develop and encourage talent for the FCT's long-term economic success.
This was said by Wike on Friday at the inauguration of the 13th Zuma Film Festival (ZFF), which took place in Abuja.
The Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, the FCT Administration, and the Nigerian Film Corporation collaborated to organize the festival, which was scheduled to take place from December 1 to December 8.
The minister, accompanied by Mr. Adesola Olusade, Permanent Secretary of FCTA, stated that the city's local economy was greatly benefited by the partnership with the film company.
He recognized the critical role that the film industry plays in forming a community's identity and encouraging cross-cultural communication.
He says there are a lot of benefits to the relationship outside the entertainment industry.
"Our residents are being exposed to a plethora of artistic expression, cultural diversity, and thought-provoking narratives that challenge perspective and enable dialogue," Wike stated in reference to the festival.
In addition to fostering the growth of domestic talent, the partnership is giving up-and-coming filmmakers a stage on which to display their artistic vision.
"As a result, the FCT creative sector stands to benefit economically and culturally from the expansion of allied sectors and more job possibilities.
"Let us celebrate the ability of film to transcend boundaries, celebrate diversity, and spark conversations that inspire positive change as we begin this year's festival."
He exhorted the pertinent parties to seize the opportunity for the collaboration to enhance Abuja's creative and cultural landscape.
In addition, Wike stated that the festival provided a venue for important industry connections in addition to exhibiting Abuja talents.
He suggested networking with other filmmakers, producers, and enthusiasts to accomplish this, working together and sharing ideas that might lead to fresh and creative ventures.
In the center of the Federal Capital, this festival has a distinctive place. It enhances not just the creative energy but also the economy and cultural relevance that shine across the nation's capital.
Given how interconnected the globe is today, the festival's theme of "Cultural Convergence" makes sense.
The minister stated, "It highlights the ability of cinema to transcend boundaries, unified diverse cultures and foster a sense of shared understanding and appreciation."
The event, according to Mrs. Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, gave Nigeria's rich cultural diversity the much-needed stage.
The minister, through her Senior Assistant on Film and Music, Mr. Baba Agba, urged Nigerian filmmakers to seize the chance to showcase and capitalize on the nation's artistic heritage.
Mr. Juan Sell, the Spanish ambassador to Nigeria, stated that his nation had participated in ZFF on multiple occasions and vowed to keep up its support for the Nigerian film industry.
Sell declared that Spain would stick by Nigeria's strength in terms of creativity and cultural variety.
The Nigerian Film Corporation's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Chidia Maduekwe, announced that the festival will continue as a yearly national event.
The 13th edition of ZFF, according to Maduekwe, Chairman of the Planning Committee, would feature some of Nigeria's best audio-visual, cultural products, initiatives, and exhibitions in the creative industries.
The ZUFF 2023 events and activities have been carefully planned to provide the most possible chances for moviegoers, decision-makers in government policy, financial specialists, filmmakers, exhibitors, and value chain participants.
"This will push our joint efforts to create the economy out of the industry and challenge our inner creative brains and innovative skills,” he said.