By Chukwuma Umeorah
The Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) and the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) have called for stronger cultural diplomacy between Nigeria and China through joint film productions, emphasizing the need for a formal co-production treaty to deepen bilateral ties.
Speaking at a symposium on Promoting Cultural and Economic Diplomacy Through Film in Lagos yesterday, representatives of both institutions stressed that the creative industry could serve as a vital tool for international relations, economic growth, and national development.
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Director and Research Professor at the NIIA, Femi Otubanjo, representing the Director-General, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, highlighted the global impact of Nigeria’s creative sector, noting that music and film have become powerful cultural exports. He said, “Nigerian music is now taking shape and taking over the world. Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, Rema, Asake, and the rest of them are taking over arenas and throwing thousands into their shows. Our films are selling, and so we are touching all the elements of this cultural phenomenon. They are strengthening the transfer of culture, but they are also sources of parallel economic activities.”
China’s Consul General in Lagos, Yan Yuqing, underscored the role of films in shaping perceptions and strengthening national identity. She noted Nollywood’s global recognition alongside China’s century-long film tradition, pointing to the Lagos State Government’s groundbreaking of the Lagos Film City as a sign of commitment to developing Nigeria’s creative economy. “Film is not only entertainment, but also a universal language that goes beyond boundaries. It doesn’t just entertain audiences, but also reshapes how the world sees Nigeria and strengthens the country’s cultural presence on the international stage,” she said.
Yuqing noted that China’s film industry generated 42.5 billion yuan (about $6 billion) in revenue in 2024, with domestic films accounting for nearly 79 per cent. She explained that the boom has created jobs and boosted related sectors such as tourism, advertising, fashion, and technology, while urging Nigeria to pursue similar pathways for Nollywood.
Delivering the keynote, NFVCB Executive Director, Dr. Shaibu Husseini, proposed a co-production treaty between Nigeria and China to foster collaboration. He argued that such an agreement would allow both countries to pool resources, share stories, and expand markets.
“Therefore, to promote cultural diplomacy between Nigeria and China through film, I propose a joint film production that can showcase the shared human values while highlighting the uniqueness of our cultural institution. It will be interesting to see a Nigeria and China production that explores the Igbo apprenticeship system and the Chinese philosophy of community and culture.” Husseini recommended the establishment of community cinemas to expand film access beyond urban centers, partnerships for studio construction, training in animation, and the exchange of film professionals to build technical expertise.
“I’m hoping that we can sign a proper co-production treaty that will link assets to our markets and funding as well. When Nigeria and China collaborate through film, they are not just telling stories.
They are shaping global narratives, strengthening bilateral relations, and contributing to peace and prosperity through cultural and economic diplomacy.”
Husseini added that with Nollywood recognized as the world’s second-largest film industry by volume, Nigeria stands to benefit significantly from partnerships that strengthen production quality, distribution, and global reach.
The symposium featured screenings of Nigerian films, including Ijeoma Richard’s award-winning documentary Úru ígbă bòi, highlighting the practical role of cinema in fostering cultural understanding.
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