By: Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja
The Cultural Counselor Embassy of the Peoples Republic of China in Nigeria, Mr Yang Jianxing, says film and television works are vital tools for people from different countries to gain a deeper understanding of each other’s history, cultural traditions, values, and contemporary social developments.
Mr. Jianxing, stated this at the Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Chinese Film and Television Broadcast Month in Nigeria, organised by StarTimes Nigeria and hosted by the China Cultural Center in Nigeria.
Speaking the Cultural Counselor Chinese Embassy, explained that the Chinese film and television works, aims to showcase the unique charm of Chinese culture and the achievements of contemporary China’s economic and social development to the Nigerian public, fostering mutual learning and enhancing people-to-people connections.
“China and Nigeria, both with rich histories and vibrant cultures, share a long-standing friendship between its peoples. As the saying goes, *National relations are built on mutual understanding among people. We believe that cultural Exchange and cooperation are essential driving force for advancing our bilateral relations. Through these films and television works, we hope that our dear Nigerian friends will gain a deeper understanding of what China is and who the Chinese people are, while also appreciating the unique charm of Chinese culture and the profound friendship that the Chinese people hold for the Nigerian people. Nigeria is a cultural powerhouse with a flourishing film industry, famously known as Nollywood”, he explained
According to the Envoy: the event is part of the efforts to implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the meeting between the Presidents of China and Nigeria”, he added
On her part, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Art, Culture, Creative Economy and Tourism, Patricia Roberts , who was represented by the Director, International Cultural Relationship , Zainab Ali-Biu said the government was committed to supporting and fostering cultural exchanges and collaborations.
Cultural exchange plays a vital role in fostering understanding communication and friendship between nations. Thriugh the film and Television industry we have the unique opportunities to share stories, values and perspectives with audience from different backgrounds. This event not only showcase the diversity and creativity of Chinese cinema and television , but also provides a platform for Nigerian artists and filmmaker to connect with their counterparts in China. Let me state that the Ministry is committed to supporting and fostering these cultural exchanges and collaborations”, she said.
The Director General, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Salihu Dembos, represented by Mr. Tunji Adepoju, stressed that the event was a testimony to the collaborative stories and shared vision between China and Africa.
He added that the event it is to also celebrate not only the rich cultural narratives that both regions bring to the global stage, but also the growing partnership that nurtures knowledge, exchange culture, and tradition.
“It is clear that our story owes the power to build bridges of deepening understanding and to foster mutual respect. Through initiatives like these, we will continue to see how film and television can capture shared values, inspire future generations, and strengthen our cultural and economic bonds. The Nigerian Television Authority is proud to support this event and is committed to advancing the partnership that enriches our media landscape. Together with Star Time, we aim to provide quality content that resonates with audiences, promoting diverse voices, and enriching our community with stories that reflect both our unity and our diversity”, he said
The Chief Executive officer NTA-Star TV network, Mr Joshua Wang expressed the hope that the Chinese Nigeria cultural exchange and cooperation would be further deepened through two month launched program.
StarTimes is immensely proud to partner with the China Culture Centre in Nigeria to bring this festival to life and continue our cultural exchange tradition. This festival celebrates the deep-rooted friendship between China and Nigeria. It is a testament to our shared love for storytelling, our appreciation for diverse cultures, and our commitment to strengthening the bonds between our two nations.i hope and believe that the China-Nigeria cultural exchanges and cooperation will be further deepened through this two-month program show”, he noted.
The Film exhibition month begins from November to December. During this period, about 35 Chinese films showcase, TV series, and documentaries will be shown through various television and online platforms. These works encompass various aspects of Chinese cultural life, reflecting the emotions, dreams, and aspirations of the Chinese people.
