Shaibu Husseini and Bai Yimin during the Abuja talks. Photo: NFVCB.
The National Film and Video Censors Board has held talks with Chinese film-industry representatives about expanding Nollywood distribution in China and bringing more Chinese productions to Nigerian audiences.
The discussions took place at the board’s Abuja office, according to a statement issued on 22 October. Bai Yimin, identified by the board as chairman of HuaXia Film Distribution, led the visiting delegation.
NFVCB executive director Shaibu Husseini said the board wanted closer cooperation that could give Nigerian filmmakers and distributors access to additional commercial opportunities. He also expressed willingness to enter appropriate agreements with Chinese stakeholders.
The announcement describes exploratory discussions. It does not identify a signed distribution agreement, name Nigerian films selected for release in China or provide a timetable for screenings. No sales figures or distribution commitments were disclosed.
Nollywood distribution and licensing
The proposed cooperation covers more than the movement of finished films between the two countries. The participants discussed theatrical distribution, licensing, technical knowledge and closer contact between regulatory authorities.
Husseini said arrangements involving the Nigerian market must comply with domestic rules. He urged the delegation to work with registered Nigerian distribution companies and consult the board about the regulatory status of prospective partners.
That requirement places licensed local distributors within the proposed commercial arrangements. The board’s account does not announce an exemption from classification or registration requirements for films entering Nigeria.
The talks also addressed the acquisition of rights and the need for clear licensing procedures. Participants discussed protecting intellectual property while reducing obstacles to legitimate distribution across national borders.
For Nigerian producers seeking another overseas outlet, the proposal remains at the stage of developing relationships and possible arrangements. The statement does not establish that individual productions have secured access to Chinese cinemas or other platforms.
Husseini also requested Chinese support for modern film-classification infrastructure. He linked the request to strengthening the board’s capacity as technology changes how audiovisual material is produced and circulated.
Artificial intelligence, digital platforms and the online circulation of unclassified films formed part of the discussions. The two sides considered regulatory cooperation and exchanges of expertise alongside the proposed expansion of distribution.
Bai expressed willingness to explore practical cooperation between stakeholders in both countries. The Chinese delegation invited Husseini to China for further discussions about distribution, licensing, classification and technological development.
The invitation provides a proposed next stage for the engagement. The announcement does not give a date for that visit or say that the infrastructure requested by the Nigerian board has been funded or supplied.
The NFVCB regulates film classification and licenses distribution and exhibition activities in Nigeria. Its responsibilities cover locally produced and imported works, making regulatory compliance a separate requirement from any commercial negotiations between producers and distributors.
The board’s published services include licences for distribution, exhibition, premises and online activities. Its classification system provides age ratings and consumer guidance for approved audiovisual works.
Veteran filmmaker Fidelis Duker, convener of the Abuja International Film Festival, facilitated the Abuja meeting. Other delegation members named by the board included representatives of China Film Distribution, Tai Ge Film Company and Tiger Pictures Entertainment.
