Nigeria and Brazil have launched a high-profile cultural and audiovisual exchange centered in Lagos. Orchestrated by the Office of the Vice President of Nigeria in partnership with Filmhouse Group, the visit of a senior Brazilian delegation from June 23–26 marks a turning point in transatlantic cultural cooperation.
Led by officials from Brazil’s Ministry of Culture and industry leaders, the delegation’s itinerary included visits to Filmhouse Cinemas – IMAX Lekki (West Africa’s largest cineplex), the Oba of Oniru’s Palace, John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture, Terra Kulture, and Lekki Arts & Crafts Market . These cultural landmarks underscored shared heritage—particularly Yoruba influences—in Brazil’s Afro-Brazilian fabric.
Highlighting the event, Filmhouse Group CEO Kene Okwuosa described both nations as “cultural siblings” united by storytelling. “Storytelling is our bridge to unite nations, spark economic growth, and shift global perceptions,” he told Channels TV 1.
Nigeria and Brazil share centuries-old bonds, tracing back to the transatlantic slave trade. The Yoruba people’s language, spiritual practices, and art traditions were carried to Brazil and remain central in Afro-Brazilian religious and cultural life . George Maha of ApexBrasil remarked, “I am Nigerian. I was born in Lagos… that connection matters. It’s time we embraced it more deliberately” .
The visit follows November 2024’s negotiations at the G20, where both countries drafted a bilateral audiovisual co-production agreement . Under this framework, producers from Nigeria and Brazil can co-develop, finance, and distribute joint projects, benefit from cross-border incentives, technical collaboration, and artist exchanges.
For Nigeria, the agreement aligns with President Tinubu’s “Destination 2030” plan, aiming to generate two million jobs and significantly boost GDP through creative-sector growth . Meanwhile, Brazil—poised as the Guest of Honour at Cannes 2025—is cementing its status as a global co-production hub, with over 500 deals across 13 countries and revenue nearing $1 billion annually .
“This partnership affirms Nigeria’s commitment to telling our stories on a global stage and working with like‑minded nations to elevate African and Afro‑Brazilian narratives,” said Nigeria’s Minister of Culture, Hannatu Musa Musawa .
Filmhouse Group, a major force in West African cinema, with a network of multiplexes and production arms, is leading the charge . Brazilian firm RM Cia 360, represented by CEO Rachel Maia, also pledged active collaboration: “Nigeria has quality, and so do we. Let’s build something meaningful together”.
Implementation of the co-production agreement will commence via a bilateral task force, joint funding opportunities, talent exchange schemes, and training partnerships in areas like cinematography, animation, and post-production . With a shared Yoruba cultural foundation, future co-productions are expected to delve into pan‑African and Afro‑Brazilian narratives.
Cultural diplomacy: Reinforces Afro-global identities while boosting soft power.
Industry growth: Nigeria gains access to Brazilian funding and distribution; Brazil taps into Nollywood’s production capacity.
Economic returns: Co-productions may open new markets and revenue streams for filmmakers and investors.
Industry experts caution about regulatory and financial hurdles, such as securing funding mechanisms and IP protections. Yet, the momentum behind this initiative, backed by government and private players, signals a promising shift toward sustainable cultural partnerships.
As Nigeria and Brazil strengthen their creative alliance, they are not only bridging continents but igniting a new era of storytelling, economic collaboration, and cultural unity—a landmark in 21st-century diplomacy and cinematic expression.