By Maryam Suleiman Yusuf

China highlighted its cultural links with Nigeria during Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations in Abuja, stressing the role of exchange in strengthening bilateral ties.

Speaking at the event, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Yu Dunhai said the festival symbolises family and friendship, and that cultural ties remain “a vital bridge” between the two countries.

Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Dr Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, said both nations share values centred on family and community. He also noted the coincidence that China and Nigeria both mark their National Days on 1 October, calling it a reflection of their long-standing ties.

The celebration featured performances by visiting artists from Shenzhen, including opera, dance, martial arts and acrobatics. A food fair introduced guests to mooncakes, dumplings and teas, presenting the traditions of the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Shenzhen delegation leader Li Qiangqiang spoke about the city’s transformation from a fishing village to a global hub with a GDP of more than $500bn, highlighting its cultural as well as economic development.

Counsellor Yang Jianxing, Director of the Chinese Cultural Centre in Nigeria, said joint performances by Chinese and Nigerian artists foster understanding and strengthen relations.

Several Nigerian guests welcomed the showcase. Professor Sheriff Ghali Ibrahim said it offered “a chance to understand Chinese traditions” while pointing to similarities with Nigerian culture. Banker Linda Ndukaoba Chinonye described the performances as proof that “art has no borders,” and engineer Henry Iheuko said the food gave him “a taste of China in Abuja.”

The event ended with calls for more exchanges to reinforce the relationship between China and Nigeria.