Abuja: Nigeria and China have strengthened their diplomatic ties through the 2025 Culture and Tourism Festival in Abuja, where both nations showcased music, dance, fashion, and art as symbols of unity, friendship, and economic cooperation. The People’s Republic of China underscored cultural heritage as a vital bridge connecting nations, tribes, and tongues towards enhanced development.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, represented by his deputy, Zhou Hongyou, emphasized the deep historical roots shared by the two nations and highlighted their growing cultural exchanges. Zhou stated, ‘China and Nigeria are both ancient civilisations with profound historical and cultural heritage. From the Great Wall to the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, from Mount Tai to Zuma Rock, our world-class cultural and natural landmarks have become vital bridges connecting our peoples and deepening our friendship.’
He further noted that cultural and tourism exchanges between the two countries are
expanding rapidly, with an increasing number of Nigerians visiting China and more Chinese nationals visiting Nigeria. Zhou added, ‘China’s cultural diversity has shaped its rich history, with over 5,000 years of history and 56 ethnic groups. As President Xi Jinping said, exchanges and mutual learning make civilisations richer and more colorful. That is exactly what today’s festival is all about.’
While expressing admiration for Nigerian culture, Zhou praised the performances at the festival, emphasizing that they highlighted the creativity and inclusiveness of both countries’ heritage. On the Nigerian side, the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, represented by Ambassador Bolaji Akinremi, stressed that cultural exchange remains a unifying force. He remarked, ‘The Nigeria-China Culture and Tourism Festival offers a unique opportunity to appreciate one another’s values, traditions, and creativity. Our histories, languages, and heritage may differ, but cultural exchange binds people
together, fosters mutual respect, and enriches our societies.’
Ambassador Akinremi added, ‘Nigeria’s cultural landscape, from the Argungu International Fishing Festival to the Ofala Festival, stands among Africa’s richest, just as China’s millennia-old traditions continue to inspire the world.’ The festival, organised by the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria in collaboration with the African Fashion Festival Vogue and the Chinese Tourism Promoters Initiative, featured music, dance, art exhibitions, fashion, and culinary displays. Diplomats from Cuba, Tunisia, Malaysia, Vietnam, the United States, Japan, and South Korea also attended the event, further underscoring its global significance.