The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has affirmed that the nation’s capital, Abuja, is not just the political capital but also a growing hub for arts, culture, and creative expression.

The Minister made this statement at the closing ceremony and award night of the 2025 Zuma International Film Festival, which was held at the Chida Event Centre in Utako, Abuja.

She emphasized how the festival enhances the city’s cultural footprint, attracts visitors, supports local businesses, and promotes film production and training. Mahmoud noted that nations have increasingly recognized the film industry as a critical tool for shaping narratives, strengthening diplomacy, promoting cultural identity, and driving economic prosperity.

According to Dr. Mahmoud, the impact of Nigerian storytelling is vast: “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.”

She commended the organizers, filmmakers, actors, and producers for their dedication to making the 15th edition of the festival a resounding success. Reaffirming the federal government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Mahmoud affirmed ongoing support for the creative economy.

She outlined efforts to foster a conducive environment for filmmakers through infrastructure improvements, partnerships, investment-friendly regulations, and platforms like the Zuma Film Festival. While speaking on the festival’s theme, “Storytelling for Global Influence: Film as a Soft Power and Economic Force,” Mahmoud noted its relevance in today’s world where film is increasingly recognized as a vital tool for diplomacy, cultural promotion, and economic growth.

She informed her audience that the Federal Capital Territory Administration remains proud to co-host the Zuma International Film Festival, which continues to highlight the brilliance and diversity of Nigerian talent on the world stage.

Earlier, in his remarks, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Nigerian Film Corporation and host of the Zuma International Film Festival, Dr. Ali Nuhu, noted that the positive impact the sector exerts on Nigeria’s creative ecosystem continues to inspire the corporation in hosting the annual event. He used the occasion to reaffirm the commitment to better Nigeria’s film industry for the promotion and growth of film production and cinema activities.

Dr. Nuhu expressed satisfaction with the event’s quality: “Obviously, we have been transported into the world of creative excellence, with nothing short of exceptional experiences.” Looking ahead, he stressed their intent for the future: “From the success so far, we intend to use Zuma 2026 and those thereafter, to sustain conversations, strengthen partnerships, boost co-production, creating perfect opportunity to connect, promote and reward excellence,”

The highpoint of the event was the presentation of awards to the best filmmakers, content creators, best children’s film, best foreign film, best sound, among other categories.