China, Nigeria Strengthen Trade, Cultural Ties

China has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening trade and cultural ties with Nigeria, aiming to surpass the current trade volume of over $20 billion.

This initiative was highlighted by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Yu Dunhai, during the Chinese Lunar New Year celebration in Abuja, themed “Year of the Golden Snake.”

Speaking on bilateral relations, Ambassador Yu highlighted the potential for collaboration between the two nations.

“Nigeria is a major African country with global influence and a key partner in BRICS. Last year, the trade volume exceeded $20 billion, and we see significant potential to further enhance it,” he said.

He referred to last year’s forum for China-Africa cooperation as a pivotal moment for both countries to further their economic ties.

“We are eager to implement agreements reached during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

“China looks forward to working with it to implement the 10 Action Partnerships that will benefit citizens of the two countries,” Yu stated.

He underscored Nigeria’s position as China’s largest engineering contract recipient and its status as the second-largest export market in Africa.

The ambassador also emphasised the importance of cultural and people-to-people exchanges as pillars of the relationship, noting that these ties were elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership during President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to China.

The Lunar New Year celebration brought together over 2,000 attendees from both countries, featuring cultural performances, food displays, and dances.

Also Read: Nigeria-China Trade Volume One of the Highest in Africa -VP Shettima

During the celebration, Yu also spoke to the cultural significance of the Lunar New Year, highlighting its themes of hard work, intelligence, and happiness. He expressed hopes that the Year of the Snake will usher in peace and prosperity for both Chinese and Nigerian citizens.

Mr. Xu Zhen Tao, Deputy Director of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, echoed Yu’s sentiments, noting the long-standing friendship between China and Nigeria. He highlighted how the Belt and Road Initiative has strengthened China-Nigeria relations while promoting stability and development across Africa and beyond.

On Nigeria’s side, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Mr. Raphael Obi, invited Chinese investors to explore Nigeria’s vibrant creative and cultural sectors.

“The arts, culture and tourism are very vast sectors in Nigeria. We’re inviting the people of China to come and share those things that make them special in the world to share with us.

“The goodwill that China has extended towards Nigeria in various sectors, particularly in culture and tourism, has been instrumental in enhancing our bilateral relationship.

“The collaborative efforts in cultural exchanges, art exhibitions, and tourism initiatives have not only enriched our societies but have also created avenues for economic growth and development. As we celebrate this new year, I would like to reaffirm our commitment to promoting and strengthening the bilateral cultural ties between Nigeria and China,” Obi said.

The Director of the Centre for Contemporary China-Africa Research, Professor Sheriff Ghali Ibrahim, noted that the Lunar New Year celebration symbolizes cultural integration, promoting mutual learning and appreciation of each other’s heritage.

The Lunar New Year will be celebrated on January 29, marking the start of the Year of the Snake, a time for reflection and unity across cultures.