Nigeria and China have deepened their cultural and diplomatic ties through the China Women’s Film Festival, an event celebrating women’s creativity, resilience, and storytelling as vital tools for cross-cultural understanding and empowerment.
At the opening ceremony held in Abuja, the Nigerian Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim — represented by her Special Assistant on Creative Economy, Mrs. Rukkayah Mohammed — commended the Chinese Embassy and the China Cultural Centre for sustaining the festival, describing it as a “bridge of friendship and creativity” between both nations.
“This festival holds special significance as it coincides with the global reflection on the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark framework that has shaped three decades of advocacy for women’s rights, gender equality, and empowerment,” the minister said.
She added that the event aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places people at the center of national development through initiatives that promote women’s economic empowerment, strengthen family systems, and protect vulnerable groups.
“Deepening collaboration with China holds immense promise. China’s success in leveraging culture, technology, and social innovation offers valuable lessons for Nigeria,” she noted.
Reflecting on her recent visit to China, the minister shared her admiration for the country’s innovation and work ethic.
“From Beijing to Sichuan, I was amazed by the speed and innovation of the Chinese people. I joked that Nigerians must learn kung fu — not to fight, but to match the pace of Chinese innovation,” she said.
Lawmakers Back Women’s Inclusion in Governance
Chairman of the House Committee on Culture and Creative Economy, Hon. Gabriel Zock, reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to promoting gender inclusion and advancing Nigeria’s creative industries.
“We are working to amend the constitution to reserve 30 percent of political seats for women by 2027. Our committee is also developing a five-year strategic plan to position culture and creativity as engines of economic growth,” Zock said.
He emphasized the transformative power of women’s stories and cross-cultural exchange.
“When women tell their stories, society evolves. When nations exchange culture, peace and prosperity follow,” he said, describing the China Women’s Film Festival as “an embodiment of global cooperation and cultural diplomacy.”
China Reaffirms Support for Global Gender Equality
In his remarks, Zhou Hongyou, Minister at the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, highlighted China’s global efforts to promote gender equality, ahead of the Global Women’s Summit in Beijing.
“Women are the backbone of every society — our mothers, sisters, and daughters. China remains committed to working with Nigeria and other countries to build a world where women and girls enjoy equal opportunities in education, work, and leadership,” Zhou said.
Also speaking, Mr. Yang Jianxing, Director of the Chinese Cultural Centre in Nigeria, expressed optimism that the film festival would deepen bilateral ties and inspire a new generation of women filmmakers.
Cinema as a Tool for Cultural Diplomacy
Our Diplomatic Correspondent reports that the China Women’s Film Festival provides a platform for showcasing inspiring stories of women who exemplify leadership, creativity, and resilience.
The event featured cultural performances including dance, poetry, songs, and a film screening of Dumping Queen, spotlighting narratives that challenge stereotypes and promote women’s voices in global conversations.
