Nigerian and Argentine firms have signed an agreement to invest in co-production of a film that will be based on the life of a Nigerian-Argentine woman, María Remedios del Valle.
María (1768–1847) also known as the “Madre de la Patria” (Mother of the Homeland) was a soldier who fought in the Argentine War of Independence.
She was widely recognized for her contributions to the independence of the nation.
The signing of the agreement between Mr Pablo Cesar, a film producer and professor of cinema in Argentine University and Mr Hayatu Muhammed, CEO of Trovec International Limited, took place at the Argentine Embassy in Abuja in the presence of the country’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs Maria Del Carmen Squeff.
The film titled, “Homeland Mother” would be shot in Argentina and Nigeria and in two versions, Spanish and English for film festival and commercial purpose respectively, Mr Cesar said after the signing ceremony.
He said the film is expected to cost five million dollars.
In his remark, Mr Muhammed said the production of the film would help in educating Nigerians, especially students, on the contribution of a Nigerian origin to Argentina’s freedom.
“Who would ever think that a woman of Nigerian origin made a huge impact in the struggle for the country’s independence?
“Such an important piece of Argentine history should not be kept in the cupboard. It should be brought to the world,” he said.
Mr Muhammed expressed believed that the film would also strengthen the relationship between both countries.