Cultural Harmony: Chinese Community Marks New Year in Lagos

On Saturday, the Chinese community in Lagos came together with Nigerians to celebrate the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, in a vibrant display of cultural exchange and unity. The celebration, reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), marked the traditional event that ushers out the old year and welcomes new beginnings, bringing luck and prosperity.

Themed “One World, One Spring, Hauxing Shines,” the festivities featured a lively blend of cultural dance, music, and cuisines, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of both Nigeria and China. The Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture delivered captivating performances, celebrating Nigeria’s diverse artistic traditions, while the Hauxing Kung Fu group and Hauxing Art Troupe mesmerized the crowd with their snake dance performances.

Guests enjoyed a delicious mix of traditional Nigerian and Chinese cuisine, including Eba, Egusi, Sweet and Sour Pork, Kung Pao Chicken, Chinese Dumplings, Wonton, Chow Mein, Dim Sum, Ma Po Tofu, and more.

The festival also included an exhibition of Chinese and Nigerian products, a food festival, and a Gala Night, which served as a testament to the cultural exchange and friendship between the two nations.

Chinese New Year: A Global Celebration
Ms. Yan Yuqing, Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, emphasized that the Spring Festival is the most significant traditional holiday in China, soon to be added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2024. She expressed that the festival has transcended national borders and become a shared cultural treasure, fostering mutual understanding and trust across the globe.

Dr. Eric Ni, Chairman of the Chinese Industrial and Commercial Enterprise Association, reaffirmed the Chinese community’s commitment to supporting vulnerable Nigerians. As part of their continued efforts, the community is launching the “Together Fight Against Hunger” charity project, aiming to support 30 low-income Nigerian families with N100,000 and food donations.

Ni also highlighted the Chinese community’s ongoing philanthropic efforts, including providing educational scholarships, supporting cataract surgeries, and assisting orphanages.

Strengthening Nigeria-China Relations
Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the Lagos State Government, praised the strong relationship between Nigeria and China, noting the collaboration between Lagos State and Chinese investors in projects like the Lekki Free Trade Zone and the transformative Lagos Blue and Red Rail Mass Transit lines. She urged both countries to continue embracing unity, compassion, and determination.

Zhang Yi, Minister-Counselor, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria, expressed his confidence in the future of the Nigeria-China partnership, symbolized by the upcoming Year of the Snake, which represents longevity, good fortune, and wisdom in Chinese culture.

In conclusion, Jaafaru Yakubu, Chairman of the House Committee on Nigeria-China Relations, reiterated the importance of strengthening the bonds of friendship between the two nations, highlighting China’s significant role in Nigeria’s economic development.