Emmanuel Ochayi
The 2023 annual China-Nigeria Cultural Fiesta held at the China Cultural Center in Abuja witnessed a fusion of Chinese and Nigerian traditions.
The event was a harmonious celebration of the diverse cultures of China and Nigeria. Students from 12 public schools competed in Chinese and Nigerian dance categories.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe event, organized by the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and the Secondary Education Board of Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is a testament to the growing cultural exchange between the two nations. The Cultural Fiesta has evolved into a “well-known cultural brand,” according to Li Xuda, the cultural counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria.
Students, adorned in elaborate Chinese and Nigerian costumes, captivated the audience with their performances, transitioning between the graceful Chinese fan dances and the spirited rhythms of Nigerian traditional dances. The applause that echoed through the China Cultural Center was not just for the impressive displays but for the bridge that had been constructed between these two nations through the universal language of art and culture.
“This is a truly exciting experience for me. I am glad to have not only witnessed this but have also competed and won,” said Gift Paul, a student of the Government Day Secondary School in Dutse. Her school clinched the top prizes in both the Chinese and Nigerian dances, demonstrating the profound impact of cultural exchange on young talents.
For many of the participants, the lack of Chinese language teachers posed a challenge. Yet, their love for Chinese culture drove them to perfect their performances through watching videos and practicing tirelessly. “They just downloaded videos of Chinese songs and dances, and they watched videos and practiced over and over again,” explained Yakubu Ibrahim, a member of the China-Nigeria Alumni.
Martha Fortune, whose school won the top prize in the competition, confessed to not fully understanding the lyrics of the Chinese songs. However, she expressed that the experience felt like “an interesting story,” highlighting the power of art and dance in transcending language barriers.
Bright Abovi, a teacher from the Government Day Secondary School in Dutse, felt a deep connection to Chinese culture through this event, saying, “Anytime we do this program, I always see myself like a Chinese man. In my color, I am a Nigerian man, but in my mind, I think like the Chinese people.”
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The China-Nigeria Cultural Fiesta is not just a competition; it symbolizes a deepening cultural exchange and people-to-people interaction between China and Nigeria. As the event continues to flourish, it exemplifies how culture plays a pivotal role in the historical process of national independence and revitalization for both nations.
In a world often marked by divisions and misunderstandings, the annual Cultural Fiesta stands as a shining example of how the arts can transcend borders, fostering harmony, and understanding. It’s a celebration of the unity between two diverse cultures that resonate with the spirit of togetherness, reminding us that in the language of dance and music, we can find common ground and build bridges that span continents.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
