FCTA will continue to support local content creators — Wike

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has assured participants at the Zuma Film Festival that the FCT Administration will continue to support local filmmakers in nurturing homegrown talents.

The Minister, who stated this at the closing ceremony and award night of the Film Festival, held in Abuja over the weekend, pledged the administration’s commitment to make the festival bigger in the coming years.

Wike, who was represented by the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, identified the Zuma International Film Festival as a catalyst for economic prosperity.

Wike also promised the administration’s readiness to implement plans aimed at elevating the festival’s status for economic benefits in the territory.

The Minister also appreciated all the filmmakers, actors, producers, and everyone involved in the creation of the work of art, which has helped to foster the spirit of cultural convergence.

“We will continue to provide platforms, resources, and opportunities for budding filmmakers within the FCT, fostering an environment conducive to creative expression and innovation.

“We also seek to amplify the reach and prestige of the Zuma Film Festival on the global stage. This will attract more attention, participants, and investments, thereby augmenting the festival’s economic benefits for the FCT.” Wike stated.

Meanwhile, ‘Face to Face’, a star-studded Nollywood thriller, emerged as the Best Film, while Kenneth Okolie won Best Actor in the film at the grand finale of the 2023 edition of the Zuma Film Festival (ZUFF).

Ace actor Kenneth Okolie won Best Actor for his lead role in the film directed by Robert Peters, featuring Freddie George, Gbenro Ajibade, Tamara Eteimo, Jeffrey Innocent, Dustin Wilkes, and Danelle Korsak, among other cast members.

Set in the city of Lagos, ‘Face to Face’ tells the story of everyday challenges average Nigerians face in their quest for survival.

According to the festival jury, a total of 3,340 films were received from all over the world, of which 20 short films, 19 feature-length films, and eight student films were shortlisted.

Other films shortlisted included six documentary films, 10 animation films, and four indigenous language films.

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