The Mid-Autumn Festival, one of China’s most cherished cultural celebrations, became a platform for deepening Nigeria–China relations as both nations highlighted the power of cultural diplomacy in shaping stronger bilateral ties.
Speaking at the festival in Abuja, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, Yu Dunhai, described cultural exchange as a “vital bridge” for fostering cooperation and mutual understanding between the two countries.
“The Mid-Autumn Festival is not only about family reunion and happiness, it is also a heartfelt expression of our warmest wishes for the China–Nigeria friendship,” the envoy said.
The event, which brought together senior Nigerian government officials and a visiting troupe of artists from Shenzhen, featured traditional opera, dance, martial arts, acrobatics, and performances inspired by classic Chinese poetry.
Dunhai praised Shenzhen, the home city of the performers, as an example of China’s transformation from a fishing village into a global hub of technology and culture, noting that its vibrant creative scene reflects a blend of tradition and innovation.
Highlighting people-to-people connections as the foundation of sound international relations, he added: “Friendship, which derives from close contact between peoples, holds the key to state-to-state relations.”
Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, echoed the Ambassador’s views, stressing that Nigeria and China share cultural values rooted in family, thanksgiving, and community life.
“The Mid-Autumn Festival speaks of harvest, reunion, and blessings. These values are not foreign to us in Nigeria. This shared appreciation forms a powerful bridge between our peoples,” Muhammad said.
He further noted the symbolic significance of both countries marking their National Days on October 1, describing the coincidence as “a reminder of aligned destinies and shared aspirations for development and progress.”
Muhammad also underscored the role of Nigeria’s creative industries in cultural diplomacy, pointing to film, music, fashion, and visual arts as key platforms for global engagement.
“Events like this are not just social gatherings; they are vital tools of diplomacy. The creative economy serves as a dynamic engine, showcasing the talent and spirit of our people to the world, including our friends in China,” he said.
Both officials agreed that Nigeria–China cooperation must expand beyond trade and infrastructure to embrace culture and people-to-people understanding.
Closing his remarks, Muhammad proposed a symbolic toast adding “Let us celebrate the harvest of our growing friendship, and may the bond between our two nations grow ever stronger.”
