Ties

By Ladi

Abuja, Dec. 2, 2025- China and Nigeria on Tuesday reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cultural and film cooperation as the award-winning Chinese documentary “Rooting” screened at the ongoing Zuma International Film Festival in Abuja.

Mr Yang Jianxing Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria made this known during a special masterclass and screening led by the film’s director, Ms Chai Hongfang, and editor, Ms Zhou Hongxia, who traveled from China to participate in the event.

Yang expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Film Corporation, festival organisers, and China Harbour Engineering Company (Nigeria) Ltd. for supporting the Chinese delegation, describing the festival as an important bridge for cultural understanding.

“This is not just a cinematic event; it is a dialogue between civilisations and a testament to the long-standing friendship between China and Nigeria,” he said.

Yang also praised the dynamism of Nollywood, noting its position as the world’s second-largest film industry with about 2,500 films produced annually.

He said the Zuma Festival provides a vital platform for cultural exchange and mutual learning between filmmakers from different backgrounds.

Speaking on Rooting, he said the documentary shot over four years tells the story of a villager in Yunnan Province who escapes poverty through targeted government support.

“The narrative mirrors the aspirations of many Nigerians striving for development and improved livelihoods.

“The film’s authentic storytelling and emotional depth strongly resonate with Nigeria’s own pursuit of national progress,” he added.

Yang also announced that another Chinese documentary, SHENZHOU 13, produced aboard China’s space station, will be screened at the festival.

He said such engagements reflect the growing strength of China and Nigeria relations following the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2024.

“With 2026 designated the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, we anticipate deeper cooperation in the film industry,” he said.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of China Harbour Engineering Company (Nigeria) Ltd., Mr Wang Wenfei, highlighted the power of film as a medium for cultural bridging, human connection and shared understanding.

He said Rooting offers a genuine view of China’s development journey and the government’s commitment to improving citizens’ welfare.

Wang noted China Harbour’s 30 year contribution to Nigeria’s development, citing landmark projects such as the Lekki Deep Seaport and major road networks.

“We are honoured to be part of Nigeria’s development journey,”

“May cultural exchanges between China and Nigeria continue to flourish, and may the friendship between our two nations remain everlasting,” he said.

Mr Ali Nuhu Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) praised the partnership, noting that the Zuma Festival continues to serve as a powerful platform for international collaboration, knowledge sharing and creative innovation.

NAN reports that the screening of Rooting was one of the key highlights of the 2025 Zuma International Film Festival, which continues to attract filmmakers, creatives and industry stakeholders from across Africa and around the world.(NAN)