FG Sets OSCARS Target For Nigerian Films As Zuma Film Fest Begins December 1–5

The Federal Government said that it has kick started moves to ensure that Nigerian films are qualified enough to win the International Academy Awards, commonly known as the OSCARS among other Internationally rated Awards.

The Presidency stated this through its Ministry of Art , culture and Creative Economy , Tourism and the Nigerian Film Corporation, NFC on Tuesday during a news conference to unveil activities for the upcoming 14th edition of the Zuma International Film Festivals, ZUFF, slated for Dec. 1 to Dec. 5 themed “Digital Renaissance: Embracing the Future”.

The conference had the presence of Hon. Minister of State FCT, Dr. Mariya Bunkure; Director General, National Gallery of Art (NGA), Ahmed Sodangi; Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Juan Ignacio Sell represented by the Embassy’s Cultural Adviser, Mrs. Eva Barta; DG National Troupe of Nigeria, Khaltume Gana; DG National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Mr Otunba Biodun Ajiboye; Representative of the US Embassy, Bella Anne Ndubuisi; Managing Director, Ventnor Furniture, Mr. Sadiq Mahmood; DG National Film and Video Censors Board, NFVCB, Dr Shaibu Hussein represented by its Senior Staff Peace Ononobi.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John highlighted the objectives of this year’s edition in which she harped on the ingenuity of Nigeria’s film practitioners.

She expressed optimism that Nigerian Films would soon clinch international rated Awards such as the OSCARS.

She said; “We are really blessed, hardworking and creative and we can go Global, with some of us here especially the Minister have been to CAN Film Festival, the Grammys and I’m sure she has gone to the OSCARS also and I am hoping that one day films that come out of Nigeria will go Global and we will achieve at least one OSCAR.

“Nigeria has been producing movies in CDs, about 10 to 12 a day, until things changed, especially when Funke Akindele came out with ‘Jenifa’, she did an amazing job,”

“Another is Bolanle Austin Peters and I was amazed by the quality of work that we have in the film Industry,” she said.

Leveraging on Ade-John’s position as Minister of Art , culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa said that the Ministry is working on projects in collaboration with the NFC, Hollywood and Nollywood practitioners which will lead to the production of films of international standards.

She said; “We are really planning a number of projects within the next two years and we will be speaking to Mr. Ali Nuhu and we are working with Hollywood and Nollywood practitioners.

The Minister also lauded the NFC’s initiative to sustain and improve each festival edition.

She spoke on the importance of the Film Festival; “Film Festivals and Markets provide a unique opportunity to bring the various players in the sector together and significantly impact the local film industry. They are critical to fostering collaboration and enabling the development and commercialisation of projects”.

NFC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Dr Ali Nuhu, disclosed that no fewer than 3,120 film submissions have been received by the Corporation, NFC, in response to the upcoming Zuma International Film Festivals, ZUFF.

According to Mr Nuhu, NFC, this year, has highlighted the transformative power of digital technology in filmmaking, with over 3,120 films submissions from countries including Nigeria, Iran, India, USA, Spain, and France.

Mr Nuhu, who also presides as the Chairman of the Central Joint Committee of ZUFF, described the annual festival as a platform that facilitates the promotion of Nigeria’s cultural values and creative economy.

“Today’s event marks a significant milestone in our journey toward enhancing Nigeria’s vibrant film industry (Nollywood) through the flagship event of the festival.

“We reaffirm our commitment to stakeholders, the government, as well as their global partners,” he said.

He further expressed gratitude to Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, for her unwavering support toward the festival, as well as the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, for being a major co-hosting partner.

He also thanked the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, and Minister of State FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, for providing an enabling environment for the festival.

According to Mr Nuhu, Zuma International Film Festival is more than an event due to its movement in the promotion of Nigeria’s cultural and creative economy.

“The festival creates jobs, empowers youth, and fosters collaboration across borders,” he added.

Nuhu also announced veteran award-winning actress Stephanie Okereke-Linus as the Head of Jury for ZUFF 2024, stressing that her creative engagement had inspired many within and beyond their shores.

“Along with other distinguished film experts as Jury members, their task of processing and selecting winning entries remains very vital.

“The festival highlights include: Zuma Film Festival Light up Night and Opening Ceremony; NFC Annual Film Lecture with the theme: “Digital Ecosystems: Redefining African Cinema”.

“Others are Artificial Intelligence in filmmaking session, featuring Malik Afegbua on AI’s role in storytelling; free film screenings across selected venues in Abuja as well as Film Trade & Finance Forum among others,” he said.

Mr Nuhu commended the media for its continued support and vital role in amplifying the voice of the industry.

“Looking forward to seeing you at ZUFF, where we will celebrate the power of film to transform lives, shape cultures, and inspire future generations”.

Festival Director Oyelade Halima in her welcome address, said ZUFF had evolved into a global platform, bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, and film lovers to showcase the best of African and international cinema.

“Our theme this year, “Digital Renaissance: Embracing the Future,” captures the transformative power of the digital age, focusing on how young creatives can leverage technology to shape their futures.

“This theme celebrates the fusion of creativity and innovation, highlighting opportunities for job creation, wealth generation, and positioning filmmakers at the forefront of global trends,” Mrs Oyelade said.

Speaking on behalf of the Nollywood practitioners ,President of the Actor’s Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas thanked the Federal government for immensely supporting the Industry within the last one year saying they’ve never had it this good.

Managing Director, Vento Furniture, Mr. Sadiq Mahmood Host of the event, expressed delight in the partnership.

According to him the festival with the theme represents the very heart of expression, Cultural exchange and tailored storytelling values that resonate deeply with the company.

Source:- Thesunng