Abuja: China and Nigeria have reaffirmed their commitment to promoting fashion as a tool for cultural exchange and growth of the creative economy. The commitment was made on Friday in Abuja at the China-Nigeria Fashion Show, organized to showcase the countries’ cultural heritage.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, emphasized that fashion offers a unique platform for cultural interaction. Jianxing stated, “Clothing is more than just attire; it is a vibrant vehicle for civilization and a universal cultural language that transcends geography.” He noted that the fashion show would enable Chinese and Nigerian clothing cultures to interact, exchange ideas, and learn from one another, potentially inspiring new fashion trends and invigorating the creative industries in both nations.
Jianxing highlighted that the event establishes a platform for dialogue between Chinese and Nigerian clothing cultures, allowing Chinese aesthetics and indigenous African art to interact and blend. He expressed optimism that continued design exchanges and greater industrial collaboration would strengthen both countries’ fashion sectors. Additionally, he pledged China’s support for expanding people-to-people exchanges and practical cooperation between China, Nigeria, and other African countries.
Mr. Abdulkarim Ibrahim, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, commended the organizers for creating this platform. Represented by Mr. Mohammed Tukura, Ibrahim emphasized that fashion remains an important instrument for cultural exchange, economic growth, and mutual understanding among nations. He noted that Nigeria’s fashion industry, driven by designers, artisans, young creatives, and entrepreneurs, could benefit from stronger engagement with China’s creative sector.
Ms. Mea Bintu, CEO of Sygnific Stitches and Fabrics, echoed the sentiment, mentioning that the fashion show provided an opportunity to deepen Nigeria’s decades-long relationship with China. The event featured traditional Chinese fashion and aesthetics, followed by Nigerian fashion and contemporary creative expressions, as well as modern designs presented by fashion models from both countries.