Nigeria and China Strengthen Creative Ties Through Major Film and Literature Agreement

Nigeria and China have expanded their cultural and creative cooperation following the signing of a strategic agreement between the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and the China Movie Channel (CMC). The partnership is set to facilitate content exchange, film co-productions, professional training, and technology transfer between both nations.

The agreement was formalized on Friday during the China-Nigeria Film and Literature Symposium at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja. The event brought together diplomats, government officials, filmmakers, authors, and broadcasters to explore how literature and media can deepen bilateral ties as both countries celebrate 55 years of diplomatic relations.

Speaking at the symposium, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, described the deal as a milestone in advancing cultural exchange and mutual understanding. He highlighted the strength of both nations’ creative sectors, noting China’s production of over 700 films annually alongside Nollywood’s status as the world’s second-largest film industry, producing more than 2,000 films each year.

Ambassador Yu also pointed to growing literary exchanges, noting that works by prominent Nigerian authors like Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie are gaining popularity in China, while Chinese literature and web novels continue to attract young Nigerian readers.

Representing the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Permanent Secretary Abdulkarim Ibrahim emphasized that the collaboration aligns with national policies to harness the creative economy for job creation and growth.

NTA Director-General Salihu Dembos echoed these sentiments, noting that the partnership serves as a practical bridge between the two countries aimed at delivering measurable outcomes in joint film productions, capacity building, and digital media expansion.

The symposium featured interactive discussions among writers, broadcasters, and directors, concluding with a screening of the Chinese film Blades of the Guardians.