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The Taijiquan Day event was held in Abuja on March 18, bringing together more than 300 participants to deepen cultural and people-to-people exchanges between China and Nigeria. Under the theme “China–Nigeria Good Partners”, the event was hosted by the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria and co-organized by the Chinese Wushu Association. It was attended by government representatives, cultural dignitaries, martial arts practitioners, and members of the public from both countries.
In his remarks, Yang Jianxing, Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria and Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy, underscored the profound historical and cultural value of Taijiquan as a cherished gem of traditional Chinese culture with worldwide appeal. He noted that Taijiquan was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2020.
Yang further highlighted that at its 43rd session in November 2025, the UNESCO General Conference formally designated March 21 annually as International Taijiquan Day, marking the first UN-recognized international day named after a martial art. The date coincides with the spring equinox, symbolizing natural balance and embodying Taijiquan’s philosophy of harmony between humanity and nature. He expressed hope that such events would enable more Nigerians to appreciate the cultural depth of Taijiquan, strengthen interpersonal exchanges, and consolidate the public support base of the China–Nigeria Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Nigerian officials highlighted the event’s significance, stating that Taijiquan combines physical exercise and mental well-being, fitting modern people’s needs. They encouraged local youth to learn and practice Taijiquan, calling for its wider promotion in communities and schools.
The event featured Taijiquan demonstrations by local practitioners, along with cultural performances integrating Chinese and Nigerian art forms. It further deepened mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples, laying a solid foundation for closer bilateral cultural ties.
