The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) received approximately 3,293 entries in various categories for the Zuma Film Festival (ZUFF) at the end of October, according to Brian Etuk, Director of Public Affairs.
BMA understands that the 13th edition of the ZUFF opens its global call for entries from 15 June 15 to 15 November.
According to Mr Etuk, the figure was made available by the corporation’s data analyst, capturing the six categories of films submitted for the competition.
He said 1,822 entries were received for Short Films and Videos, Documentary Films and Videos, 584 entries and Student Film and Videos, 470 entries.
Others are Animation and Cartoons, 299 entries; Children’s Film and Videos, 83 and Feature Film and Videos, 35.
He said that the previous festival had impacted the Nigerian economy and innovation of computer-intensive entities.
Mr Etuk said since 2017, the corporation has improved its team by ensuring that the festival was held yearly, as well as making it a continental event and not a Nigeria event.
“There will be participation across the continent, starting with Morocco and then to South Africa.
“We intend to have more robust participation from those countries during this year’s edition.
“Germany, Spain, American Embassies and South Africa are on board. We hope they will pull their resources to ensure their filmmakers are part of the event.
“The MoU we signed with South Africa is yielding fruits; many South Africans have indicated interest to participate in the festival,’’ he said.
“We organise festivals to recognise and reward people who have contributed to the development of the industry.
“But we also look forward to knowing how to sustain the industry so we can pay attention to master classes and mentorship.
“Some people will mentor upcoming filmmakers and also be at the business sessions at the event,’’ he said.
