Throughout the event, discussions revisited one central idea: the power of narrative. Speakers underscored how film is rapidly becoming a strategic asset for nations seeking to shape perception and build international relationships. This direction was echoed strongly by Dr. Ali Nuhu, Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), who urged stakeholders to view cinema not merely as an art form but as a platform for projecting national identity and forging global alliances. He emphasized that the festival’s masterclasses, co-production forums, business sessions, and diplomatic engagements were all curated to strengthen the creative value chain and to expand opportunities for Nigerian filmmakers worldwide.
That call for intentional storytelling was further amplified by Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), speaking on behalf of Nigeria’s Minister for Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy. Asika situated Nollywood’s ascent—from the VHS era of the early 1990s to its current billion-dollar stature—as evidence of how innovative storytelling can disrupt and redefine global film culture. He cautioned that Nigerians must take responsibility for narrating their own experiences, praising the festival’s new internal jury as a step toward deepening the authenticity and integrity of local storytelling.
The festival also highlighted ongoing international collaborations, with Spain reaffirming its long-standing ties to ZUMA through remarks delivered by Eva Barta, representing the Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria. She expressed optimism about future exchanges as Nigerian film delegations engage more with Spanish institutions and creators. Similar interest from China, Germany, South Africa, Iran, and other global partners reinforced the festival’s role as a meeting point for cross-continental cooperation.
A celebratory note closed the event with the screening of “Safari,” an action-drama by renowned filmmaker Obi Emelonye. Featuring Ali Nuhu, Jide Kene, and Osas Ighodaro, the film showcased the depth of Nollywood’s talent pool and offered audiences a fitting finale that echoed the festival’s dedication to elevating Nigerian cinema.
By its conclusion, ZUMA 2025 had once again positioned Nigerian cinema as a significant cultural and economic force. Stakeholders left with a shared vision: a strengthened industry that not only tells its own stories with clarity and pride but also continues to shape global cultural discourse. With expanding partnerships, a renewed commitment to storytelling, and steady industry innovation, the future of Nigerian film appears poised for even greater international influence.
Key Takeaways:
- NFC’s Vision: Dr. Ali Nuhu spotlighted film as a tool for cultural diplomacy, economic development, and global positioning.
- Nollywood’s Evolution: Obi Asika emphasized the importance of ownership in storytelling and acknowledged Nollywood’s decades-long disruptive influence.
- International Collaboration: Spain, along with other global partners, reiterated its commitment to deeper cultural and production partnerships.
- Festival Finale: The screening of Obi Emelonye’s “Safari” showcased Nollywood’s creative strength and closed the festival on an energetic note.