Minister renews call for screening of nollywood movies in China

Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information and Culture, has renewed his call for the screening of Nigerian movies in China, while Nigeria reciprocates the gesture towards Chinese movies, which are shown in the country.

The minister made the request in Abuja, recently when he received the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Zhou Pingjian, on a courtesy visit.

Mohammed said it would also be a cautious strategy to ensuring better understanding between the two countries and also create market for Nigerian movies in China.

The minister described the partnership between Nigeria and China in the area of infrastructural development as a catalyst for domestic tourism in Africa.

“I think China is a good example of how domestic tourism can propel and trigger the economy; and for domestic tourism to prosper, you need improved infrastructure.

“This is why we are so glad that China is collaborating with Nigeria in the area of infrastructure such as roads, power and railways,’’ Mohammed said.

He lauded the bilateral relations between Nigeria and China which he described as “mutual and sincere’’, adding that China remains one of the strategic partners of Nigeria because of its genuine commitment and passion towards the country.

The cultural ties between both countries, he said could further be strengthened in the areas of film and cinematography.

Mr. Pingjian said culture and people-to-people relations were parts of 10 priority areas which his country was exploring to foster relations with Nigeria, stressing that China had opened discussion with the minister towards the building of Nigeria-China Cultural Centre in Nigeria to further promote cultural ties.