China to showcase 35 films, TV series in Nigeria

China will showcase 35 Chinese films, TV series, and documentaries in Nigeria before the end of 2024 as part of efforts to project the Chinese culture.

The Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria, Mr Yang Jianxing, disclosed this at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Chinese Film and Television Broadcast Month in Nigeria, hosted by the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria and organised by StarTimes Nigeria in Abuja.

The event was 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.

Through the medium of Chinese film and television works, the event aimed 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 between the two civilizations and enhancing people-to-people connections between China and Nigeria.

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“In today’s era of globalization and information technology, film and television works have become vital tools for people from different countries to gain a deeper understanding of each other’s history, cultural traditions, values, and contemporary social developments.

“The exhibition month will take place from November to December. During this period, we will showcase 35 Chinese films, TV series, and documentaries through various television and online platforms, including NTA Entertainment, NTA Hausa, AsoTV, IndependenceTV, MuhasaTV, ST DadinKowa, ST SinoDrama, and ST Kungfu.

“These works encompass various aspects of Chinese cultural life, reflecting the emotions, dreams, and aspirations of the people. This is not only a visual feast but also a heartfelt exchange,” he said.

While noting that China and Nigeria have rich histories and vibrant cultures, he said that cultural exchange and cooperation were essential driving forces for advancing bilateral relations between the two countries.

“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,” Mr Yang Jianxing said.

Speaking, Mr Joshua Wang, the CEO of NTA-STar TV NetworK, said the festival was a testament to their shared love for storytelling, appreciation for diverse cultures, and commitment to strengthening the bonds between the two nations.

He said, as the leading digital TV operator in Nigeria, serving 4.5 million subscribers, StarTimes had done a lot to promote the cultural exchange between China and Nigeria.

The Minister of Art, Culture, Creative Economy, and Tourism, Patricia Roberts, said the Ministry is committed to supporting and fostering cultural exchanges and collaborations, adding: “Through initiatives like the China-Africa Goods Partners programme, we can strengthen the bonds between our nations, promote mutual respect and appreciation, and pave the way for a more interconnected and harmonious World.”