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The Cultural Counsellor, China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, has said that cultural exchange is a vital component of China-Africa friendly cooperation.
Yang, who spoke during the 2026 Seasonal Life and Harmonious China Cultural Exhibition organised by the centre in Abuja, recalled that 2026 marked the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges and the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria.
He noted that China and Nigeria were ancient civilisations with long histories and splendid cultures, adding that despite the vast distance separating both countries, China and Nigeria shared rich, diverse cultural traditions and a spirit of openness and inclusiveness.
“Cultural exchange is a vital component of China-Africa friendly cooperation and serves as an important bridge for fostering mutual understanding and affinity between our peoples, as well as for promoting dialogue and mutual learning among civilizations,” Yang said.
The director further said that in recent years, exchanges in fields such as culture, education, tourism, and youth affairs had become increasingly close.
He also said that mutual understanding between nationals of both countries had deepened, and the friendship had been further consolidated, injecting continuous vitality into the development of the China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership.
“The ‘Seasonal Life and Harmonious China’ cultural Exhibition held today centers on the theme of ‘seasonal life,’ a concept rooted in fine traditional Chinese culture. Through a variety of engaging activities, including displays of the ‘Twenty-Four Solar Terms’ culture, tastings of traditional delicacies, experiences with Intangible Cultural Heritage crafts, and interactive exchanges, we invite you to explore the Chinese way of life and experience the cultural philosophy of ‘living in harmony with nature, coexisting in harmony, and sharing a beautiful life.’
“The Twenty-Four Solar Terms represent not only the crystallization of wisdom gained by ancient Chinese people through long-term observation of nature, but also an element of Intangible Cultural Heritage recognized by UNESCO. They reflect a philosophy of living in harmony with nature and embody values that emphasize respecting nature, cherishing resources, and pursuing a harmonious and beautiful life,” Yang also said.
He further said that the philosophy resonated deeply with the Nigerian spirit, which cherished nature, respected tradition, and valued family and community, forming a vital foundation for the exchange, mutual learning, and appreciation between Chinese and Nigerian civilisations.
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“Culture thrives on exchange, and civilization is enriched through mutual learning. We hope that today’s event allows more Nigerian friends to experience firsthand the charm of Chinese culture and the spiritual aspirations of the Chinese people. We also look forward to deepening cultural exchange and cooperation between our two nations and organizing a wider array of people-to-people activities, enabling our peoples to enhance mutual understanding, achieve shared development through mutual learning, and forge ahead together through cooperation.
“The Embassy of China in Nigeria and the China Cultural Center in Nigeria will continue to serve as a bridge, actively implementing the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit and the consensus reached by the heads of state of both countries. Seizing the opportunity presented by the ‘China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges,’ we will continue to host signature events such as cultural exhibitions, artistic performances, language classes, youth exchanges, and tourism promotions to further advance cultural cooperation and foster closer bonds between the peoples of China and Nigeria,” he concluded.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mukhtar Yawale Muhammed, said the concept of harmony – living in sync with the seasons and with nature – is a profound pillar of Chinese philosophy.
Muhammed also said the same principle of harmony guides the international relations participants were celebrating.
“Just as the seasons of the year bring renewal and harvest, the partnership between Nigeria and China is entering a season of unprecedented opportunity. As we speak, we are witnessing the fruits of a strategic relationship that is moving beyond trade into deep agricultural, technological and scientific transformation,” Muhammed said.
The permanent secretary, who also spoke on the ‘Communist Party of China’s (CPC) 105th anniversary: A Legacy of Transformation,’ extended warm felicitations from the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology and the Federal Government of Nigeria to the Communist Party of China on its momentous 105th anniversary of leading the affairs of the People’s Republic of China.
He stated that over the past century, the CPC had charted a remarkable course.
“We have watched with admiration as China has achieved extraordinary progress in socio-economic development, scientific and technological innovation, poverty reduction, and world-class infrastructure transformation. The “Chinese miracle” is a testament to visionary leadership and a model for developing nations, particularly in how strategic planning can catalyze technological leapfrogging,” he also said.
