Abuja, Nigeria – China has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cultural, tourism, education, and creative economy cooperation with Nigeria, signaling a new phase in bilateral relations aimed at enhancing mutual understanding and development.
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, made this known during the celebration of the United Nations International Tea Day over the weekend. The event, themed “Tea for Harmony – Yaji Cultural Salon,” featured a series of performances and exhibitions showcasing Chinese heritage, including Yue Opera, pipa music, calligraphy, and traditional painting.
Highlighting the growing cultural diplomacy between both nations, Ambassador Yu emphasized the increasing significance of Chinese tea culture in connecting civilizations, noting that 2024 saw the introduction of Hainan Baisha tea into the Nigerian market.
He described the event as a prelude to the upcoming “China-Africa Year of Cultural Exchange” in 2025, part of the broader Ten Partnership Actions for Modernization — a three-year initiative (2025–2027) to strengthen China-Africa cooperation across various sectors, including culture.
“The Embassy remains committed to advancing cultural, tourism, educational, and creative collaborations to deepen the friendship between our peoples,” Yu said.
Referencing the 2023 meeting between the Presidents of China and Nigeria in Beijing, the Ambassador highlighted the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He underscored culture as a central pillar of this relationship, citing examples of mutual learning: Nigerian students studying Chinese tea art and opera, while Chinese volunteers in Nigeria promote Mandarin and immerse in local cultures.
“Tea symbolizes peace, connection, and mutual respect,” Yu noted, adding that shared cultural values between the two countries can foster deeper dialogue and unity.
He further expressed China’s readiness to support Nigeria in value-added agricultural production, tea-related trade, agro-processing, and cultural tourism.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Nigeria’s House Committee on Culture and Creative Economy praised the initiative, describing culture as both a foundation of identity and a potential economic powerhouse. He emphasized the need for legislation that would strengthen cultural industries and enhance Nigeria’s global cultural presence.
Dr. Muhktar Mohammed, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy, also pledged Nigeria’s support for creative ventures centered around tea, suggesting that tea festivals and tea-themed tourism could open new economic opportunities while preserving cultural heritage.
Ms. Olubunmi Olowookere, Permanent Secretary of the FCT Social Development Secretariat, described tea as a symbol of “peace and patience” that fosters cross-cultural unity.
Similarly, Dr. Mohammed Bulama, Director General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), represented by Alhaji Suleiman Musa, emphasized the role of media in projecting Nigeria’s cultural values to a global audience.
As China and Nigeria continue to strengthen their diplomatic and cultural bonds, events like the Yaji Cultural Salon underscore the power of soft diplomacy in building bridges across continents.
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