Chinese delegation of artistes in Nigeria to promote cultural exchange – Amb. Yu

The Chinese delegation of artistes from Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, arrived in Nigeria to promote cultural exchange between the two countries.

The delegates made an appearance on Thursday in Abuja as part of a celebration marking the Mid-Autumn Festival, with the theme, “A Moon-ment to Remember,” organised by the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and the China Cultural Center in Nigeria (CCCN).

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Yu Dunhai, said that the festival is a cultural bridge that strengthens friendship between people.

“China’s Mid-Autumn Festival falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. It is a special day that really captures the Chinese spirit of family reunion, harmony, and mutual support.

“On this day, we enjoy mooncakes while admiring the full moon, sending our thoughts and best wishes to family and friends who aren’t by our side,” he said.

He stressed that cultural exchange plays a vital role in bilateral relations.

“Friendship, which derives from close contact between peoples, holds the key to sound state-to-state relations,” he said.

Yu also highlighted Shenzhen’s transformation from a fishing village to a global hub with a population of 18 million and a GDP of over 500 billion dollars, saying its blend of modern innovation and cultural creativity mirrors China’s broader development story.

Mr Li Qiangqiang, Deputy Director-General of Shenzhen Bureau of Culture, Media, Tourism, and Sports, noted that the festival coincided with China’s upcoming National Day, making the dual celebration even more meaningful.

“In spite of the immense geographical distance, the cultural bond has fostered a heart-to-heart connection between us.

“Today’s event stands as both a vivid reflection of the cultural exchanges between our two nations and a heartwarming testimony to the friendship between the people of Shenzhen and Nigeria,” he said.

Li praised Nigeria’s cultural richness, citing its over 250 ethnic groups and centuries of artistic heritage.

He also reaffirmed Shenzhen’s commitment to cultural collaboration.

“Cultural exchange is a dialogue of the heart and the cornerstone of friendship. Through our joint efforts, cultural interactions between Shenzhen and Nigeria will become more frequent and profound.”

Representing Nigeria, Dr Mukhtar Muhammad, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, said the event shows shared values between both nations.

“The theme for today’s event aligns with me, the people of China and Nigeria, with their mutual respect and love, celebrate together the Mid-Autumn Festival, a festival symbolising harvest, reunion and blessings,” he said.

He drew parallels between Chinese and Nigerian traditions of harvest and family unity, stating that “this shared appreciation for life’s most precious gifts forms a powerful bridge between our peoples,” he said.

Muhammad also noted the historical coincidence that Nigeria and China both mark their National Days on Oct. 1, describing it as “a powerful symbol” of aligned aspirations.

“As we share in the tradition of enjoying mooncakes and admiring the beauty of the moon, let us be reminded of the light that shines on both Nigeria and China.

“Let this light guide us towards greater cooperation, not just in commerce and infrastructure, but in the profound realms of culture, art, and human understanding,” he said.

Guests were also treated to a photo exhibition depicting the transformation and vibrancy of Shenzhen, China’s “window” of reform and innovation.