The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria joined their counterparts across the globe to celebrate the 2024 Spring Festival with a Temple Fair at the China Cultural Center in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria.
Hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and sponsored by the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, the celebration marked the beginning of the “Year of the Dragon”.
The event, which took place on February 3, 2024, was attended by distinguished guests including the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, Hon Ja’afaru Yakubu, Chairman, House Committee on China-Nigeria Parliamentary Relations; Cui Guangzhen, Secretary General of the China General Chambers of Commerce in Nigeria; Otumba Runsewe, Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture; Chinese owned enterprises, business leaders, members of the diplomatic community, as well as Chinese and Nigerian Nationals.
In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Cui Jianchun highlighted the significance of the Chinese New Year of the Dragon and the excellent diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria.
The Ambassador said the “Year of the Dragon” holds great cultural and symbolic significance for the Chinese because it represents auspiciousness, strength, and wisdom. He used the letters of the Dragon to characterize the relationship between Nigeria and China built on mutual respect and win-win cooperation.
He said “D” represents Development, “R” stands for revitalisation of the Economy, “A” for Assistance, “G” stands for Guardiance, “O” stands for Opportunity and “N” represents Nationalism.
“These qualities of the Dragon resonate in our diplomatic ties with Nigeria, and we look forward to further collaboration for mutual growth and development,” Mr Cui added.
In his goodwill message, Hon Ja’afaru Yakubu congratulated China on the 2024 Chinese New Year, stressing that the Temple Fair allows Nigerians to learn more about the Chinese people and their traditions. He stated that Nigeria will host a spectacular event to celebrate the 2024 Chinese New Year, symbolizing the strong and growing relationship between the two nations.
Hon Ja’afaru Yakubu emphasized the importance of events like the Chinese New Year Temple Fair in strengthening ties with China, serving as a reminder of the cultural exchange and mutual respect that underpins the relationship between the two nations. He expressed hope that the event would foster greater understanding and appreciation between Nigeria and China, serving as a stepping stone towards even closer cooperation in the future.
The celebration featured a vibrant showcase of cultural performances, musical acts, and traditional Chinese delicacies. Attendees were treated to mesmerizing musical performances, engaging games, and the exchange of symbolic gifts, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of both nations.
The Spring Festival, also known as the Chinese Lunar New Year, is celebrated by millions of people globally, marking a time of family reunions, festive traditions, and the sharing of goodwill.
See more photos below:
