By Stanley Onyekwere
The Minister of state for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu , has declared that the forthcoming Zuma film festival would boost tourism and investment opportunities in Abuja, the nation’s capital city.
She said the FCT Administration will leverage on windows of cooperation with the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) to harness the opportunities created by the festival to develop abundant local talents in the city.
Aliyu, who made this assertion yesterday while briefing newsmen, ahead of the 12th edition of the festival slated for 1st to 5th of May (next month), in Abuja, disclosed that Abuja was rapidly garnering a reputation as a pleasant tourist destination with its rich cultural mix, beautiful sights and a bustling entertainment industry.
Represented by Mr. Samuel Atang, the Director Operations, Planning and Strategy in the office of the FCTA Permanent Secretary, the Minister disclosed that the administration intend to use the festival to further ensure sustainable development of the indigenous film industry.
According to him: “ We use the programme to develop our indigenous film industry with the ultimate aim of making Abuja, the film and creative hub for Africa using the festival as a catalyst.
“The collaboration between the FCTA and the NFC will not only ensure a bigger and better Zuma Film Festival but will also provide residents of Abuja investment opportunities in the nation’s creative economy”.
On his part, the NFC’s Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, , Dr. Chidia Maduekwe said the collaboration between NFC and FCTA will bring about total transformation of the film, cinema and tourism activities of the nation especially within Abuja.
“At the NFC, we are resolved to deepen and develop the Nigerian Film industry. Within the broad and specific mandate of developing the Nigeria film industry, NFC remains committed to engaging its key partners at all levels”, he said.
The MD also noted that adequate security measures have been put in place for the safety of visitors within and outside the country, for the seven days festival.
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