China has reiterated its commitment to deepening cultural and cinematic collaboration with Nigeria, describing film as an increasingly powerful tool of diplomacy between both nations.
This was the highlight at a special masterclass and screening of the acclaimed Chinese documentary Rooting at the 2025 Zuma International Film Festival in Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the Chinese Embassy, Cultural Counsellor and Director of the China Cultural Centre, Yang Jianxing, said cinema is emerging as “a growing bridge of diplomacy” and an important medium for strengthening China–Nigeria relations.
“This screening is not only a cinematic feast, but also a dialogue between civilizations and a testament to friendship,” Yang said. He added that the documentary Rooting—filmed over four years in Yunnan Province—serves as “a condensed visual chronicle of China’s poverty-alleviation efforts.”
The film follows the journey of a rural villager who is lifted out of poverty through targeted government policies. Yang noted that the storyline resonates strongly with Nigerians.
“The film’s theme mirrors the aspirations of many Nigerians who desire national development and a better life. Its authenticity and emotional depth will deeply connect with local audiences,” he said.
Yang expressed gratitude to the festival organisers and commended Director Chai Hongfang and Editor Zhou Xinxia, who travelled from China for the masterclass and screening.
He also acknowledged the support of China Harbour Engineering Company (Nigeria), describing their contributions as “tremendous.”
Yang noted that both China and Nigeria hold significant influence in global film production.
“China and Nigeria are world-renowned film-producing countries,” he said, highlighting Nollywood’s output of 2,500 films annually and China’s expansion to over 90,000 cinema screens with a 2024 box office revenue of US$6 billion.
He described the Zuma International Film Festival as “an important window for exchange and mutual learning between different civilizations.”
The Embassy also announced that another documentary, SHENZHOU 13, filmed aboard China’s space station, will be screened during the festival. Yang said such cultural exchanges will play a key role as 2026 marks the China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
“We look forward to deeper cooperation between China and Nigeria in the film industry, playing a bridging role in enhancing the friendship between our two peoples,” he added.
Representing Nigeria, Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), Ali Nuhu, praised the growing cultural ties between both countries and the opportunities it brings to the creative sector.
Nuhu highlighted that Nigeria’s partnership with China is already yielding practical benefits, particularly in training, storytelling exchange, and infrastructural support for the film industry.
Nuhu said the masterclass and screenings reinforce the festival’s mission to elevate local talent through global exposure. He noted that Nigerian filmmakers stand to gain from China’s advanced film technology, documentary expertise, and industry structure.
“This festival gives our filmmakers room to learn, innovate, and collaborate. Partnerships like this strengthen Nollywood’s capacity and open new creative frontiers,” he stated.
The NFC chief also emphasized that cultural collaboration remains a core pillar of Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements, especially with countries that demonstrate sustained commitment to mutual development.
He commended the Chinese filmmakers for travelling to Nigeria, describing their participation as a “significant gesture of cultural friendship.”
