In a vibrant display of cultural exchange and unity, the Chinese community in Lagos, on Saturday, united with Nigerians to celebrate the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the New Year festivities usher out the old year and are meant to bring luck and prosperity.
The event, with the theme “One World, One Spring, Hauxing Shines”, witnessed a colourful display of cultural dance, music, and cuisines showcasing the rich cultural heritage of both nations.
The Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture delivered captivating performances, and showcased the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.
With their vibrant costumes, energetic movements, and rhythmic beats, the troupe thrilled the audience to a blend of traditional Nigerian arts with modern flair.
Similarly, the Hauxing Kung Fu group and the Hauxing Art Troupe mesmerised the guests with their snake dance performances.
Guests were treated to sumptuous local delicacies like Eba, Egusi, Okra, Sweet and sour pork; Kung Pao chicken; chinese dumplings, Wonton, Chow mein, Dim Sum, Ma po tofu and more.
The festival featured an exhibition of Chinese and Nigerian products; food festival and a Gala Night.
Earlier, Ms Yan Yuqing, Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, described the Spring Festival as the most important traditional holiday in China.
Yuqing said the festival was not only a Chinese festival but a global one.
“The festival was to be added to the UNESCO representative list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity in 2024.
“The Spring festival has gradually become a cultural heritage shared by people worldwide. It has also become a cultural bank that treasures mutual understanding, and the trust is built,” she said.
Also, Dr Eric Ni, Chairman of the Chinese Industrial and Commercial Enterprise Association, reaffirmed the Chinese community’s commitment to supporting vulnerable members of the Nigerian society, pledging their continued assistance to those in need.
Ni, also the Chairman of Hauxing Art Troupe, appreciated Nigerians for their cooperation and support for Chinese nationals over the years.
He said to further celebrate the Chinese New Year, the community will be launching a charity project tagged “Together Fight Against Hunger”.
He explained that this project will have the Chinese community support no fewer than 30 low income Nigerian families with N100,000 each and foodstuff.
He said that this would help in cushioning the effect of economic hardship in Nigeria.
“We are not going to relent in supporting more Nigerians. We will be giving out educational scholarships, we will help more people with cataract operation and even help the orphanages,” he said.
The Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Mrs Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, highlighted some of the achievements of the state owing to the good relationship between Nigeria and the Chinese government.
Salu-Hundeyin advised the two countries to imbibe the spirit of unity, compassion, dedication, and determination.
“The Lekki Free Trade Zone continues to stand as a shining example of the synergy between Lagos State and Chinese investors, driving industrialisation and job creation.
“The transformative Lagos Blue and Red Rail Mass Transit line projects have revolutionised transportation infrastructure in Lagos state, boosting mobility and economic activity. Thank you, China, for your collaboration.
“The theme of the festival aligns seamlessly with our vision in Lagos state, reminding us of the limitless possibilities when we unite for common goals.
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“Ladies and gentlemen, as we celebrate Chinese New Year, let us reaffirm our dedication to the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Lagos State, Nigeria, and China.
“Let us carry with us the spirit of unity, compassion, dedication, and determination. Let us try to build a world where diversity is celebrated, kindness and empathy prevail, and every individual is valued and respected,” she said.
Zhang Yi, Minister-Counselor, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria, said, “May the friendship between Nigeria and China last forever.
“We are filled with confidence and patience as we look forward to the upcoming year of the snake. In Chinese culture, snake symbolises longevity, good fortune wisdom, and prosperity.
“In 2025, China will successfully complete its 45-year plan and commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.”
Similarly, a member of the House of Representatives, who is also the Chairman, House Committee on Nigeria-China Relations, Jaafaru Yakubu, noted that China had been a steadfast partner of Nigeria, contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth.
“Let us continue to work together to achieve our common goals and strengthen the bond of friendship,” he said.
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Sikiru Obarayese
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