Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima will deliver the keynote address at the Zuma International Film Festival, focusing on the impact of digital technologies on African cinema.

The Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has announced that Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima will deliver the keynote address at this year’s Zuma International Film Festival (ZUFF), organised by the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC).

The highly anticipated lecture, titled “Digital Ecosystem: Redefining African Cinema,” will examine the growing influence of digital technologies in reshaping the African film industry and its implications for job creation, wealth generation, and regional trade.

Also read: Zuma film festival kicks off December 1 – 5, 2024

“The world is increasingly captivated by our talent and our stories, and the vice president’s lecture will address the crucial role of the digital ecosystem in revitalising African cinema.

The Nigerian government is actively creating an enabling environment through supportive policies, international agreements, and digital platforms,” Musawa stated.

Shettima’s address will explore how Nigeria can position itself as Africa’s creative hub while establishing a global cultural footprint. Following the lecture, an interactive discussion will feature a panel of distinguished experts from across the continent, focusing on the opportunities and challenges the digital age presents for filmmakers and creatives.

Musawa also expressed gratitude to key collaborators, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, for their contributions to the festival’s success. She highlighted the important role Abuja is playing in establishing itself as Nigeria’s creative and cultural heart, thanks to initiatives like ZUFF.

“Abuja is fast becoming a centre of creativity and tourism through our new initiatives and partnerships with the FCT ministry,” she added, urging attendees to explore Lagos during the December festivities as both cities grow into global cultural and creative hubs.

The Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, underscored the connection between storytelling and tourism, stating, “Every location has a story, and through film, we’ve translated these stories into entertainment that attracts youth and women alike.” She expressed pride in Nigeria’s increasing global recognition, citing her recent trip to South Korea, where Nigerian films were received enthusiastically.

“I am confident that Nigeria will achieve global recognition, and I believe we will one day win an Oscar,” she said, emphasising the growth of the film industry since the 1980s. “Our creativity and hard work will take us far, and we are only scratching the surface of what we can achieve,” she added.

The Minister of State for the FCT, Mahmoud, echoed similar sentiments, praising the Zuma Film Festival for its role in fostering collaboration, inspiration, and cultural exchange. “This festival goes beyond cinematic creativity. It is a vibrant platform that bridges cultures and sparks important conversations,” she noted.

Mahmoud expressed optimism that the festival would leave a lasting impact beyond the current administration, with each year contributing to the growth of Nigerian and African cinema.

Additionally, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation, Dr. Ali Nuhu, announced that filmmaker and actress Stephanie Okereke-Linus will serve as the head of the jury for ZUFF 2024.