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The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) and the China Film Administration are exploring a strategic partnership to expand film distribution between Nigeria and China, improve market access and strengthen regulatory cooperation.
The discussions took place during a visit by a Chinese delegation led by Mr Bai Yimin, Chairman of HuaXia Film Distribution Ltd. Co., to the NFVCB office in Abuja.
Receiving the delegation, NFVCB Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr Shaibu Hussein, expressed the Board’s readiness to collaborate with Chinese film industry stakeholders to facilitate the distribution of Nigerian films, particularly Nollywood productions, in China while expanding the Nigerian market for Chinese films.
Husseini said the partnership could increase Nollywood’s international reach, create commercial opportunities for filmmakers and distributors, and promote cultural exchange through cinema. He affirmed the Board’s willingness to enter into appropriate agreements to advance mutually beneficial cooperation.
He, however, emphasised that all distribution arrangements involving Nigeria must comply with the country’s regulatory framework. He urged the delegation to work with duly registered Nigerian distribution companies and consult the Board to verify the registration and regulatory status of prospective partners.
Discussions covered theatrical distribution, licensing, intellectual property protection, regulatory cooperation and technical knowledge exchange. Both sides explored ways to simplify legitimate cross-border distribution, improve market access and strengthen understanding of film classification requirements in their respective countries.
Husseini also requested support from the Chinese delegation in providing modern film classification infrastructure to enhance the Board’s operational capacity and statutory responsibilities.
He noted that technical assistance and knowledge exchange would strengthen institutional capacity amid rapid technological changes in the global film industry.
The meeting further examined regulatory challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI), digital distribution platforms and the online circulation of unclassified films. Both sides acknowledged the need for closer cooperation to promote responsible content distribution, regulatory compliance and intellectual property protection.
In his remarks, Bai expressed the delegation’s willingness to explore practical measures to strengthen film distribution between both countries, expand market access and deepen bilateral engagement through audiovisual content.
As a follow-up, the Chinese delegation invited Husseini to visit China for further discussions on film distribution, licensing, classification, technological advancement and professional knowledge exchange.
Other members of the delegation were Mr Xu Yang and Mr Shang Xiao Meng of China Film Distribution; Mr Yang Gang, Chief Executive Officer of Tai Ge Film Company; and Mr Luo Gaocheng of Tiger Pictures Entertainment.
The meeting was facilitated by veteran filmmaker and Convener of the Abuja International Film Festival, Mr Fidelis Duker, and attended by members of the NFVCB management team.
