Stephanie Okereke Linus – Head of Jury for ZUFF 2024

Today marks a significant milestone in our journey towards enhancing Nigeria’s vibrant film industry, Nollywood, through our flagship event, the Zuma International Film Festival. As we announce the 14th edition themed “Digital Renaissance: Embracing the Future,” we reaffirm our commitment to stakeholders, the government, and our global partners.

I extend my deepest appreciation to the Hon. Minister of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, for her unwavering support, and to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for being a major co-hosting partner. Special thanks to the Honourable Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, and the Hon. Minister of State – FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, for providing an enabling environment for the festival.

The Zuma International Film Festival is more than an event; it’s a movement that promotes Nigeria’s cultural and creative economy. The festival creates jobs, empowers youth, and fosters collaboration across borders. This year, we highlight the transformative power of digital technology in filmmaking, with over 3120 film submissions from countries including Nigeria, Iran, India, the USA, Spain, and France.

I am therefore pleased to announce the Head of Jury for ZUFF 2024. She is none other than the award-winning filmmaker and actress, Stephanie Okereke Linus; whose creative engagement has inspired many within and beyond our shores. Along with other distinguished film experts as Jury members, their task of processing and selecting winning entries remain very vital.

 

The festival highlights include:

• Zuma Film Festival Light up Night and Opening Ceremony- holding on 1^st December, 2024 at 6pm here at Jabi Lake Mall.
• NFC Annual Film Lecture: To be Delivered by His Excellency, Vice President Kashim Shettima (GCON), themed “Digital Ecosystems: Redefining African Cinema.”
• Artificial Intelligence in Filmmaking Session: Featuring Malik Afegbua on AI’s role in storytelling.
• Free Film Screenings: Across selected venues in Abuja.
• Film Trade & Finance Forum: With Michael Auret discussing co-production opportunities.
• Emerging Talent Segment: Focused on young filmmakers.
• Women in Film Forum: Empowering women’s voices in the industry.
• Zuma Award Night: Celebrating excellence in filmmaking.

 

Acknowledgments and Gratitude: Our heartfelt thanks to our partners and sponsors, including:

Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA)

Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy

Jabi Lake Mall

Netflix

Vento Furniture

Istanbul Restaurant

Air Peace

The Seven-Up Bottling Company

Checkers Custard

Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and other media organizations.

 

Special thanks to the incredible teams at the Nigerian Film Corporation and FCTA, and to our Festival Consultant, Mr. Mykel Parish.

Thank you to the vibrant Nigerian press for your continued support. Your role in amplifying the voice of our industry is vital. We look forward to seeing you at ZUFF 2024, where we will celebrate the power of film to transform lives, shape cultures, and inspire future generations.

Thank you for your time and presence today.

 

Dr. Ali Nuhu

Managing Director/Chief Executive

Nigerian Film Corporation