China has highlighted music as a powerful tool for fostering mutual understanding and strengthening people-to-people ties between China and Nigeria.
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This was emphasized at the grand finale of the “China-Africa Good Partners 2025 Chinese-English Singing Competition” held in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
The 2025 competition, part of ongoing cultural initiatives by the Chinese Embassy and the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, is viewed as a soft diplomacy effort aimed at deepening mutual understanding while showcasing the unifying power of art.
The event, attended by diplomats, cultural officials, and art enthusiasts, celebrated the fusion of Chinese and Nigerian musical expressions as a symbol of lasting friendship.
Opening the event, Chinese Embassy Counselor in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, described cultural exchange as a vital avenue for building trust and strengthening bilateral relations.
“Music transcends borders, and song is a bridge connecting hearts. Today’s competition is not merely a vocal contest but a dialogue between Chinese and African cultures, and a testament to friendship that transcends mountains and seas.”
Yang stressed that through cultural diplomacy, China has been engaging with Africa, using it as a central pillar that complements economic and political cooperation.
“Cultural exchange is a crucial link in promoting the steady and long-term development of bilateral relations. This competition serves as a window into the harmonious interplay of our cultures and strengthens the belief that mutual appreciation can lead to lasting friendship.”
According to him, over the past 54 years, China and Nigeria have nurtured a relationship built on equality, mutual respect, and shared development.
“Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 54 years ago, China and Nigeria have remained good brothers who respect each other and treat each other as equals, and good partners who seek mutual benefit and win-win development,” he said.
He further explained that the competition reflects the goals of the “People-to-People Exchange Partnership Action” proposed by President Xi Jinping during the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2024.
“By allowing different languages to blend in melodies and different cultures to resonate through exchange. we are reinforcing the foundation of public goodwill that underpins the China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership.”
The Chinese Envoy described them as “ambassadors of cultural understanding” whose performances have strengthened the bond between both nations.
“Each and every one of you is a winner. Your voices express love for life and friendship, allowing us to feel the joy of closer ties between our peoples.”
On his part, the President, China Alumni Association of Nigeria, Muhammed Sulaiman, commended the initiative for its role in advancing China-Nigeria relations through soft diplomacy.
“This is not just a competition it is a profound way of cultural exchange. Over the years, China and Nigeria have built a smooth and enduring relationship, and events like this help to strengthen those bonds.”
He suggested that future editions of the event should incorporate performances in Nigerian indigenous languages alongside Chinese and English songs, describing such inclusion as an opportunity to enhance cultural understanding.
“Perhaps one day, we will not only hear English and Chinese songs but also Nigerian languages. That will tie us even closer together.”
Mr. Sulaiman commended the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria for providing a platform that consistently promotes mutual respect and cooperation between both nations.
“This initiative shows the strength and unity that cultural diplomacy can foster. It must continue to grow.”
The highlight of the event came were announcement of winners in both the Chinese and English song categories, celebrating the talent and cultural blend of contestants from both countries.
For the Chinese Category, Glory Livingston emerged as the overall winner, James Augustine took second place, while Yang Xin, Shen Lili, and Zhu Xiang Yang jointly clinched the third position.
For the English Category, Zhang Ji won the top prize for his outstanding vocal performance. Lu Yongbin and Wang Jiayi secured second position, while Liuyiming, Ekpety Edima, and Igwe Okezie shared the third-place spot.
The winners were presented with awards and certificates in recognition of their artistry and contribution to promoting cultural understanding between China and Nigeria.
The event came to a close with a group performance by all the finalists, symbolizing, the harmony of two peoples united by song, friendship, and shared aspiration.