Ejiro Efenudu
Culture, it seems, has a passport.
This message came to life at the Golden Panda International Cultural Forum, where Nigeria’s Minister for Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, delivered a powerful speech on the transformative role of cultural exchange.
She highlighted how global hits like Black Myth: Wu Kong and Ne Zha 2 showcase China’s ability to set new standards in storytelling and animation. China’s blend of vision and innovation is turning the country into a beacon for global cultural excellence.
Musawa’s remarks set the tone for Nigeria’s growing ambition to project its creative industries on the global stage. Speaking to an audience of international delegates, she stressed that culture is not confined by borders but is instead a living force that can unite people, reshape global narratives, and drive innovation.
Culture as a Universal Bridge
At the forum, Musawa underscored that culture is more than heritage and tradition — it is a dynamic tool for diplomacy, creativity, and economic empowerment.
“Culture is unique. It crosses borders, unites hearts, and reshapes narratives,” she said, echoing the ministry’s vision of culture as a universal bridge in today’s interconnected world.
Her statement reflected Nigeria’s determination to use cultural assets not only to celebrate identity but also to build bridges across nations and continents. By positioning Nigeria as a leader in cross-border storytelling, Musawa highlighted how cultural exchange can foster trust, strengthen diplomatic ties, and create new opportunities for collaboration.
Nigeria–China Collaboration on Digital Storytelling
The highlight of Nigeria’s participation at the forum was the announcement of a new cultural partnership with China. The collaboration is set to leverage digital platforms — particularly gaming, animation, and immersive storytelling — to share African and Chinese experiences with the world.
According to Musawa, this initiative is designed to bring African stories into contemporary formats that resonate with global audiences. For too long, African narratives have been told through external perspectives. By investing in co-created content, Nigeria and China aim to present authentic voices that reflect the richness, diversity, and dynamism of African societies.
Gaming and animation were emphasized as key vehicles for this exchange. With younger generations across Africa and Asia deeply engaged in digital media, both countries see an opportunity to use creativity as a tool for education, entertainment, and cross-cultural understanding.
Reframing Africa’s Global Identity
At the heart of Musawa’s remarks was a call to rethink Africa’s image on the world stage. For decades, the continent has often been portrayed through stereotypes of conflict, poverty, and instability. However, through creative storytelling, Nigeria and its partners hope to highlight Africa’s innovation, resilience, and vibrant cultures.
Forum participants echoed this vision, acknowledging that storytelling is not just about entertainment but also about shaping perceptions. A film, a video game, or an animated series can spark curiosity, build empathy, and alter how audiences view a people or a nation.
Musawa stressed that African stories, told with nuance and authenticity, can serve as powerful tools for cultural diplomacy. They can also open economic opportunities by attracting global interest in African talent, content, and markets.
Creativity as an Engine of Growth
Beyond cultural diplomacy, the forum emphasized the role of creative industries in economic development. In Nigeria, the creative economy — from Nollywood and Afrobeats to fashion, gaming, and digital media — has become one of the fastest-growing sectors.
The Nigerian delegation pointed out that investing in storytelling platforms not only helps preserve heritage but also generates jobs, builds skills, and strengthens industries that can compete globally. By tapping into the opportunities of gaming and animation, Nigeria is seeking to create new pathways for young creators, designers, and entrepreneurs.
China’s own success in building a robust creative industry provides a model for collaboration. By sharing expertise, technology, and distribution networks, both nations hope to create content that travels beyond borders and influences global audiences.
The Role of the Golden Panda Forum
The Golden Panda International Cultural Forum has become a prominent stage for discussing the role of culture in global cooperation. The 2025 edition brought together policymakers, artists, industry leaders, and academics from across the world to explore how creativity can serve as a driver of peace, understanding, and sustainable growth.
Nigeria’s participation reaffirmed its commitment to shaping international dialogue on culture and creativity. Musawa’s remarks highlighted the importance of partnerships that not only celebrate diversity but also build a shared sense of humanity.
Nigeria’s Global Cultural Ambition
By stepping into this partnership with China, Nigeria is sending a clear message: it intends to be at the forefront of global cultural conversations. The country’s creative sector is no longer seen as a domestic industry but as a global export with the power to influence how the world views Africa.
Musawa’s vision aligns with Nigeria’s broader strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil and natural resources. With its young population, digital talent, and thriving creative industries, the country sees culture not only as a soft power tool but also as a sustainable economic engine.
Conclusion
The Golden Panda Forum reinforced that culture is not just about preserving traditions but about building bridges, sparking innovation, and reshaping global narratives. Through its partnership with China, Nigeria is positioning itself as a champion of cross-border storytelling, using creativity to amplify Africa’s voice on the world stage.
