The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has reiterated China’s commitment to strengthening cultural and sports cooperation with Nigeria, by ensuring all the needed support capable of enhancing the sectors are granted.
The Chinese Ambassador disclosed this at the Grand Finale of the Chinese Ambassador’s Cup, Wushu Championship, in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
The three-day tournament was organised by the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria in collaboration with the National Sports Commission to promote sports ties.
Dunhai also explained; “the significance of Wushu as a tool for implementing the 2023 Global Civilisation Initiative and advancing the outcomes of the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).”
“Wushu is a precious treasure of Chinese culture. It builds our bodies, shapes our character and spirit and teaches self-discipline, respect and compassion,” Dunhai said. “We are delighted to see Wushu take root and flourish in Nigeria.”
“Today’s event reflects the passion of Nigerian enthusiasts and the strong bonds between our two peoples,” he said.
According to him, Wushu will be featured at the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games, encouraging Nigerian athletes to pursue excellence and represent the country at global levels.
“This championship offers a platform not only to compete but also to embody friendship and cultural understanding,” he stated.
Dunhai also reaffirmed China’s commitment to support Wushu development in Nigeria through training exchanges and partnerships.
“We will work with the National Sports Commission and the local Wushu community to create more platforms for exchange and learning,” the Chinese Ambassador said.
“We believe Wushu can serve as a window for more Nigerians to learn about China and as a bridge to deepen the friendship between our two nations.”
“I also look forward to the day when more Nigerian Wushu enthusiasts will visit China, see famous sites like the Shaolin Temple, and experience for themselves the depth and beauty of Chinese Wushu culture,” he said.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the NSC, Shehu Dikko, commended the Embassy for sustaining the partnership and contributing to youth development.
“Wushu is gaining ground in Nigeria. With support from China, the sport is helping to create new pathways for young people to achieve their dreams,” Dikko stated.
He said; “The growing popularity of Wushu in Nigeria, promoted its inclusion in the national sport festival and its potential to provide new opportunities for youth. The federal government is committed to developing a comprehensive sports ecosystem.”
On his part, the Director-General, National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade said that the competition is a platform that inspires young people to embrace discipline, focus, and respect.
“This partnership reflects our shared vision for youth empowerment and cultural exchange between Nigeria and China”, he stressed
The Nigerian wushu athletes of the 2025 Chinese Ambassador’s Cup Wushu Championship went away with 15 trophies across five competition segments with cash prizes worth of ₦500,000 for first position (Gold), ₦300,000 for second position (Silver) and third position, which is Bronze medal got ₦200,000, respectively.
Other Activities at the tournament included:
In the Creative Form category, Henry Hendrix secured the Gold trophy, while Emmanuel Udem and Taiwo Faboro took Silver and Bronze, respectively.
The Taolu Single segment crowned Justice Unaka as Gold champion, followed by Adeyonju Miracle with Silver, and Esther Obaremi with Bronze. In Taichi, Naima Sanusi emerged Gold winner, with Nasiru Umaru taking Silver, while Hendrix added a second medal, this time Bronze.
The competitive Male Sanda category saw Goodluck Emmanuel dominate to take Gold, ahead of Kunle Awoyele earning Silver and Tarkpe Stephen who claimed Bronze. For Female Sanda, Winifred Agara clinched Gold, while Mabel Aduotukeme and Mercy Joshua finished with Silver and Bronze, respectively.
The tournament, also known as the China–Nigeria Friendship Cup, drew participants from across the country and concluded with cultural performances and the presentation of trophies and cash prizes to winners.