By John Azu
Nigeria and China have reaffirmed the strong socio-cultural ties between their peoples, stressing the role of culture in deepening friendship and cooperation between both countries.
The reaffirmation was made on Thursday at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja during an event titled, “Shared Moon, Shared Moment, Meet in Africa – Hunan Culture and Tourism in Nigeria.” The programme featured cultural performances by the Hunan Song and Dance Theater Troupe.
Speaking at the event, Counsellor of the China Cultural Centre, Yang Jiangxing, said Nigeria and China shared common values, including a strong appreciation for family, friendship, reunion and the pursuit of harmony.
He said the event was taking place ahead of China’s Mid-Autumn Festival in a year marking the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China.
According to him, 2026 has also been designated the China-Africa Year for People-to-People Exchanges, while both countries would mark their respective national days on October 1.
“Let us continue to build bridges through culture and friendship, bringing our people closer together, and contributing to the deepening of the China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership,” he said.
Yang said Hunan Province was home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the birthplace of Mao Zedong, founder of the People’s Republic of China.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Abdulkarim Ozi Ibrahim, said culture had the power to bring people together by transcending language, geography and differences.
Ibrahim, who was represented by a director in the ministry, Musa Alhamdu, described the programme as a celebration of friendship, cultural diversity, heritage and mutual respect between Nigeria and China.
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Olubunmi Olowokere, commended the organisers for using culture to foster closer relations between the peoples of both countries.
Earlier, at a programme marking China’s 77th National Day, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, said relations between Nigeria and China had entered a new phase of expanded practical cooperation.
He described the partnership as one built on mutual respect and shared development interests.
“Our relationship has entered the fast lane, as both countries continue to expand cooperation across economic, political and cultural spheres,” he said.
Yu also said China’s implementation of zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries from May 1 was creating new opportunities for African exports and industrial development.
Tegbe, Director-General of the Nigeria-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, said Nigeria valued China’s development experience, particularly in manufacturing, science and technology, infrastructure and economic transformation.