Copyright tribuneonlineng
Ahead of the 15th edition of the ZUMA International Film Festival (ZUFF), scheduled to hold from December 1 to 5, 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria, the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has announced the appointment of a nine-member jury to be chaired by veteran actor and filmmaker, Ejike Asiegbu. In a statement signed by Brian Etuk, Director of Public Affairs, the NFC said the panel—comprising distinguished Nigerian and foreign filmmakers—will evaluate entries submitted in the festival’s competitive categories. Ejike Asiegbu, a former President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and current Executive Director of the Actors Charity Foundation (ACF), also serves as a board member of the Audio Visual Rights Society of Nigeria (AVRS). A graduate of the University of Port Harcourt, Asiegbu brings over four decades of experience in acting, directing, and production to his new role. Celebrated for his versatility and leadership in Nollywood, Asiegbu has featured in more than 250 films, including Oscar Heman-Ackah’s blockbuster “Finding Messiah.” Beyond the screen, he is widely respected as a culture advocate, media consultant, motivational speaker, and promoter of justice, equity, and human rights, making him one of the industry’s most influential pioneers. Speaking on the selection, Dr. Ali Nuhu, Managing Director of the NFC and Chairman of the Festival Organising Committee, described the jury as a critical component of the festival’s success. “The jury’s composition reflects the premium value and international recognition the ZUMA Film Festival has attained,” he said. “Each member brings exceptional expertise that will ensure fairness and excellence in judging this year’s entries.” Dr. Nuhu noted that the 2025 edition of ZUMA has been carefully curated to provide a broader platform for filmmakers and to deepen conversations around the strategic role of cinema in soft power diplomacy and creative economic growth. “Through storytelling, we seek to reshape global perceptions, strengthen cultural partnerships, and explore new policies that will drive sustainable film production, distribution, and exhibition across Africa,” he added. Film entries for ZUMA 2025 opened on June 4 and closed on September 5, 2025. The festival’s theme is “Storytelling for Global Influence: Film as a Soft Power and Economic Force.” Award categories include Best Picture, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Roles, Best Documentary, Best Animation, Best Foreign Film, Best Student Film, Best Sound, Best Costume, Best Indigenous Film (Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo & others), Best Short Film, Best Skit, Best Music Video, and Best Special Effects.
