The Jamaican government has expressed interest to pursue a collaborative effort with the Nigerian entertainment industry especially on film and animation. This was made known by the Jamaican envoy to Nigeria, Mr Lincoln Downer during his courtesy visit to the Nigerian Minister of Art and Culture, Hanatu Musawa in Abuja. Downer revealed that his country has a keen interest in collaborating with the Nigerian entertainment industry as they are one of the leading industries in Africa, and therefore his country will be interested in the joint effort.
He noted that Nigeria and Jamaica had a long relationship as his country had received a lot of support from the Nigerian government through technical eco-programme which has facilitated in trades like Batik and jewellery making.
In his statement which was released through the Minister’s aid, Nneka Anibeze, Downer explained;
“There is lots of scope for collaboration, particularly in area of film and animation.
“We are hoping that sometime in the future, this collaboration can be expanded. We also note that Nigeria and Jamaica are in a very close relation when it comes to entertainment.
“A lot of Nigerian entertainers like Burna boy and Wizkid, have come to Jamaica, and even Victor Thompson who was in Jamaica last month. We are looking forward to these sorts of exchange between both countries and see how we can establish a framework for deeper collaboration between the two countries.
“On Monday, we celebrated 54years of establishment of diplomatic relation between Nigeria and Jamaica.
Downer added, “We are interested in a joint collaboration with Nigeria because we recognise Nigeria not only as the cultural hub of Africa but of the globe. We also have a rich culture so we are interesting in forging a stronger alliance with Nigeria.
In her response, Musawa welcomed the idea where she expressed interest in the collaboration and looking forward for the agreement to be developed.
She revealed that Nigeria has already have IDICE programme, which provide financial support for creative industry.
According to the Nigerian minister, “There is natural partnership between Nigeria and Jamaica especially in art and culture.
She expressed readiness for the exchange in the audio-visual production proposal by her Jamaican counterpart.
She said, “We are looking forward for discussing other opportunities that can support creative in the industry.
In his contribution, Director of international Cultural Relations, Mrs Zainab Ali-Biu, sought Jamaica’s support for proposing an international day for Afrobeat music to UNESCO. NAN.
