BBC World Documentary on Nigeria “My Country” by Funmi Iyanda & Chris Dada kicks off with “Lagos Stories” This Weekend

“My Country” a three-part documentary on Nigeria produced and hosted by Funmi Iyanda will be broadcast on BBC World this Saturday, October 2nd 2010.

To commemorate Nigeria’s 50th anniversary, the BBC will air this three-part documentary that captures people and conversations around Nigeria. Embark on an epic journey around Nigeria and discover authentic Nigerian stories told from the Nigerian perspective. “My Country” has captured the heart and spirit of the Nigerian people, engaging them in eye-opening and down to earth conversations about their unique Nigerian experience.

The documentary features the stories of various Nigerians – from ordinary citizens going about their business to celebrities in unusual but natural settings – capturing discussions that range from the hard hitting stories of the day to the every day challenges of Nigerian life.

The documentary is directed by award winning director Chris Dada.

The first part of the documentary “Lagos Stories” will air on BBC World this weekend.

Synopsis for Lagos Stories

This is an in-depth look into one of the most fascinating and populated cities in the world. For many outsiders, the city of Lagos is chaotic & daunting, and inspires a mixture of fear and admiration. Yet for the people who call it home, they manage life and living in this would be urban jungle with gusto and verve.

This episode reveals the complexities of life in the city’s expanding landscape and the challenge of leadership. We are introduced to the man charged with the herculean task of organizing Lagos, and in doing so is changing the face of Nigerian leadership. We also hear from a legendary cult hero who has unwittingly become the voice of the downtrodden and disenfranchised Lagosian motorcycle riders.

Finally the episode delves into the lives of some “seemingly” impoverished yet astonishingly proud and resilient people whose self-sufficiency and enterprise is truly inspirational.

For eight years, Funmi Iyanda produced and hosted Nigeria’s most acclaimed studio talk show, New Dawn, before launching Talk With Funmi. Funmi Iyanda wanted to create a platform where authentic Nigerian stories told by Nigerians could be heard. “I truly believe that nobody can tell our stories the way we can. It is time for Nigerians to tell our own stories with knowledge, intellect, creativity and truth.”

“Lagos Stories” airs on BBC World on Saturday 2nd October 5:10am & 6:10pm with a repeat showing on Sunday 3rd October 11:10am and 12:10am
Don’t miss part 2 & 3 airing on BBC World: October 9th – 05:10am & 6:10pm and October 16th – 05:10am & 6:10pm respectively.