The 2024 Zuma International Film Festival (ZIFF) in Abuja launched with unparalleled glamour on December 1st, marking the highly anticipated premiere of Mai Martaba. As Nigeria’s official submission for the 2025 Academy Awards (Oscars), the film has already generated significant local and international buzz, solidifying its place as a landmark achievement in Nigerian cinema.
The premiere was more than a showcase of cinematic excellence—it was a powerful affirmation of Nigeria’s growing prominence in the global film industry. The star-studded event drew an impressive array of dignitaries, diplomats, and celebrities, reflecting the cultural and diplomatic significance of the occasion.
Prestigious Attendance
The opening night saw a remarkable turnout of high-profile guests, including Her Excellency Amb. (Prof.) Olufolake Abdulrazaq, First Lady of Kwara State and Chairperson of the Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum (NGSF), whose support was instrumental in making the event a success.
Key dignitaries included: Dr. Richard Montgomery CMG, British High Commissioner to Nigeria; Abdullah M. Abu Shawesh, Ambassador of Palestine to Nigeria; Shri G. Balasubramanian, Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria; Humphrey Geiseb, Namibian Ambassador; Svein Bæra, Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria; Geoffrey Onyema, Former Minister of Foreign Affairs
Thomas Schlesinger, MSc., Austrian Ambassador to Nigeria; Representatives from the Chinese, Portuguese, and Saudi diplomatic missions; Officials from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Entertainment and Industry Luminaries
Nigerian entertainment stars and creative leaders were also in attendance. Prominent figures like actor and filmmaker Francis Duru, actress Asabe Madaki, and filmmakers Dimbo Atiya and Charles Novia added their voices to the evening, showcasing unity within the nation’s creative community. Rising stars such as Bright Wonder, alongside the Executive Director of KADIFF, Audu Kashim Israel, emphasized Nigeria’s growing influence on the global stage.
Dr. Ali Nuhu, Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation, and Dr. Shuaibu Husseini from the National Film and Video Censors Board joined the celebration, highlighting the Nigerian film industry’s expanding achievements.
Adding to the vibrancy of the night were popular on-air personalities from Cool FM, Wazobia FM, and Nigeria Info, whose energy kept the excitement alive among attendees.
The premiere offered audiences a personal connection with the stars behind the film. Lead actors Ghali Abdallah DZ, Fatima Mohammed, Maryam Usman Shuaibu, Muktar Aminu Haruna, and Murtala Aliyu were joined by producers Dan Chris Ebie and Aliyu Ahmad, as well as director Prince Daniel. They shared behind-the-scenes insights, enriching the audience’s appreciation for the artistry and dedication that brought the film to life.
The overwhelming success of Mai Martaba’s premiere set the tone for ZIFF 2024 and positioned Nigeria’s cinematic industry for greater international recognition. With its Oscars entry and acclaim, Mai Martaba serves as a powerful emblem of Nigeria’s cultural and creative ascent.
The premiere of Mai Martaba at the Zuma International Film Festival will be remembered as a historic milestone, bringing together dignitaries, filmmakers, and fans to celebrate the best of Nigerian cinema. As the industry continues its remarkable rise, this event reaffirms Nigeria’s bright future on the global stage.