A Chinese delegation from “The Center of China, Hometown of Huangdi (Yellow Emperor), Kung Fu Zhengzhou” and “Chinese Taste Grand Canal Food Workshop” has arrived in Nigeria to strengthen cultural ties between the two nations. The delegation’s visit coincided with the celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival, titled “A Moon-ment to Remember,” organized by the Chinese Embassy and the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria (CCCN) in Abuja.
Mr. Yang Jianxing, Director of CCCN, emphasized the significance of cultural exchange in building bridges between China and Nigeria. He highlighted performances by artists from Zhengzhou, Henan, featuring the renowned Shaolin Kung Fu, Quju, and Yuju operas, along with demonstrations of Chinese pyrography and clay sculpture. Artists from Jinhua, Zhejiang, are also contributing through lectures on medicinal cuisine, Wuju opera performances, and displays of traditional embroidery.
“Through these exchanges, we aim to deepen mutual understanding and friendship between our peoples, providing a solid foundation for the long-term stability of the China-Nigeria strategic partnership,” Mr. Yang stated. Nigerian artists, in turn, showcased folk songs, dances, and even Chinese Kung Fu, reflecting the vibrant cross-cultural collaboration.
Zhao Hengkang, Vice Secretary-General of the Zhengzhou Municipal People’s Government, noted that their cultural troupes have performed in over 80 countries across five continents, with the goal of promoting global cultural engagement. He also pointed to the growing potential of Zhengzhou as a major cultural tourism destination, driven by China’s 144-hour visa-free transit policy and the Belt and Road Initiative.
Currently, around 100,000 Chinese nationals reside in Nigeria, many from Henan Province, playing key roles in strengthening bilateral relations. Some, like Kong Tao and Zheng Xiaopeng, have been honored with the title of “Emir” by Nigerian traditional rulers.
James Sule, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, represented by Madam Zainab Biu, welcomed the delegates, underscoring the importance of culture as the heartbeat of any nation, representing its values, history, and spirit. He expressed optimism about the continuing cultural exchanges between China and Nigeria, which have been ongoing since the 1990s.
