The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), says it is planning to collaborate with Saudi Arabia to explore sustainable cultural cooperation in film production.
This is contained in a statement signed by NFC’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Brian Etuk, in Abuja on Thursday.
According to him, Dr Ali Nuhu, managing director and CEO of NFC, held a meeting with Mr Ali Khalil Al-Maqeit, a representative of the Saudi Arabia Film Commission at the ongoing Berlinale Film Festival in Germany.
He said the Saudi authorities are eager to sign a cooperation agreement with Nigeria, to facilitate a robust film sector development for both countries.
“The potentials for film industry growth are vast with opportunities for co-production, talent exchange, and knowledge sharing.
“The handshake between Nigeria’s vibrant film industry and that of Saudi Arabia will enable the showcase of unique cultures of both nations.
“This significant effort is part of a broader strategy by Saudi Arabia and Nigeria to strengthen bilateral cultural relations,” he said.
He added that the two countries have moved towards the emplacement of a cooperation agreement and exciting new developments, as well as investment opportunities await Nigeria and Saudi filmmakers.
In a related development, Nuhu said Nigeria and France are collaborating to sustain film production cooperation.
Nuhu, in a meeting with Plazanet Michel, a director at the French National Centre for Cinema and the Moving Image, said the meeting was a significant step in strengthening the existing partnership.
“NFC has been working tirelessly to promote the industry and provide opportunities for Nigerian filmmakers to showcase their works globally.
CNC has equally expressed its willingness to have a delegation visit Nigeria for further need assessment engagements with the NFC for the development of the Nigerian film industry, “he said.
He said the proposed visit would provide a valuable opportunity for the two organisations to identify innovative opportunities in support of the growth of Nigeria’s film industry.
Nuhu expressed appreciation for the role CNC played in creating an enabling platform for investments in Nigeria’s creative industry.
“With the support of CNC and other international partners, NFC is set to increase its film industry promotion and development offerings”.
