The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has underscored the growing role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening relations between Nigeria and China, as diplomats, government officials, artists and students gathered in Abuja for the opening of the “Hello Nigeria—2026 Panda Painting Interactive Experience.”
Speakers at the event described cultural exchanges as critical tools for deepening mutual understanding, promoting friendship and fostering people-to-people connections between both countries, particularly as Nigeria and China mark 55 years of diplomatic relations.
In his opening remarks, the Minister, Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Zhou Hongyou, said the initiative was designed to serve as a bridge between Chinese and African cultures through art.
“The giant panda is known as a living fossil of the earth, a flagship species for global biodiversity conservation, and a friendly envoy of Chinese culture,” Zhou said.
He explained that the panda symbolises peace, inclusiveness and harmony in Chinese culture, adding that the exhibition combines the cultural heritage of Sichuan Province, the panda’s homeland, with Africa’s artistic vibrancy.
“The Panda Painting Interactive Experience uses panda painting as an artistic bridge, blending the image of the panda with contemporary artistic creation, bringing together the intangible cultural heritage of Sichuan, the panda’s homeland, and the vibrant colours of Africa,” he said.
Zhou noted that 2026 is significant for both countries as it marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the China-Africa Year of People-to-People and Cultural Exchanges.
He also highlighted China’s decision to grant zero-tariff treatment to 53 African countries with diplomatic relations with Beijing, saying the policy would create opportunities for Nigerian products to access China’s vast consumer market.
“Culture serves as a bridge for connecting hearts, while the youth represent the hope for carrying forward friendship,” Zhou stated.
According to him, the Chinese Embassy and the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria plan to expand cultural programmes for young people, including Chinese language and culture salons, traditional festival celebrations, artist exchange initiatives, study opportunities in China, as well as food and film festivals.
“We believe that these efforts will enable more seeds of China-Nigeria friendship to take root, blossom and bear fruit in the hearts of our peoples,” he added.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Abdulkarim Ozi Ibrahim, described the event as a practical demonstration of how cultural diplomacy can unite nations.
“Today’s Panda Painting Interactive Experience is a wonderful demonstration of how cultural diplomacy can strengthen relationships, promote shared values, and create lasting bonds among nations,” he said.
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Ibrahim noted that art transcends language, geography and social differences, enabling people from diverse backgrounds to connect through creativity and imagination.
He described the panda as a global symbol of peace, friendship, harmony and environmental consciousness, adding that the programme offers participants an opportunity to appreciate Chinese culture while celebrating universal human values.
“Nigeria and China continue to enjoy a longstanding relationship built on mutual respect, cooperation and shared aspirations for development,” he said.
The Permanent secretary further reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote intercultural dialogue, artistic innovation, cultural tourism and international partnerships.
On his part, the Director-General of the National Gallery of Art, Ahmed Bashir Sodangi, said the arts remain one of humanity’s most powerful instruments for fostering understanding and building bridges across cultures.
“This event exemplifies the enduring value of cultural exchange and the important role that creativity plays in bringing people together in a spirit of mutual respect and appreciation,” Sodangi said.
He described the panda as China’s national treasure and a globally recognised symbol of peace, friendship and ecological conservation.
“The National Gallery of Art commends the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China for its continued commitment to cultural diplomacy and people-to-people engagement through the arts,” he added.
Sodangi added that cultural initiatives such as the Panda Painting Interactive Experience contribute significantly to strengthening the longstanding bilateral relationship between Nigeria and China while promoting international cooperation, dialogue and peace.
The event featured interactive panda-themed painting activities involving students, artists and cultural enthusiasts, providing a platform for artistic expression and cross-cultural engagement between the two nations.
