Nigerian government seeks Mexico's cooperation on film industry

Mr Labaran Maku, Nigerian Minister of Information

Nigerian government seeks Mexico's cooperation on film industry

The Nigerian government has restated the need for cooperation between Nigeria and Mexico in the development of Nigeria’s film industry.

The Minister of Information, Mr Labaran Maku disclosed this recently in Abuja, the nation’s capital, when the Mexican Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Louis Shahl, paid him a courtesy visit.

Smoothening relationship

Maku said that there were lots of opportunities for the Nigerian film industry if the necessary investments were made.

He added that the growth of the industry would also benefit the Mexican film industry, which was reputed for television soaps.

Report says that the Ambassador’s visit was in continuation of efforts to smoothen relations between Nigeria and Mexico in the area of cinema.

“I want to state here that Mexico and Nigeria have a lot to share not just in the area of governance. The film industry in both countries is thriving very well and is one area we want to work to better relations between us. We produce good films just like they do in Mexico, we need to smoothen this understanding for the better. ” Maku said.

He urged the Mexican Government to invest more in developing infrastructure for Nigeria’s film industry.

Cinema culture

In his response, Shahl pledged the support of the Mexican government to develop Nigeria's film industry.

He said that Mexico was planning a training programme for Nigerian film makers in the area of cinematography as it was collaborating with relevant stakeholders to revive the cinema culture.

Drug trafficking

On the issue of the fight against drug trafficking, Maku said that Nigeria would need to share experiences with Mexico as both countries were determined to eliminate illicit drug trade.

He commended the Mexican government for its determination to fight illicit drug traffickers in spite of opposition.

NAN/Shakira