To mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the new China and the 64th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence, the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, in collaboration with the Chinese Community displayed cultural heritage.
The event, which celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival and 53rd Anniversary of the Diplomatic Relations between Nigeria and China, also added a rich cultural dimension to the festivities.
In her remarks, Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Ms Yan Yuging, highlighted the strong ties between China and Nigeria, just as she hailed the recent meeting between the leaders of both nations at the FOCAC summit in Beijing.
While emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation and mutual support, Yuqing said: “A new chapter should have a new intention, and a new journey should have a new spirit.
“In the process of realizing the great cause of building a strong country and national rejuvenation, in the magnificent wave of building an all-weather community between China, Africa and Nigeria, with a shared future for the new era.
“I hope that everyone will stand on a new position, anchor new goals, open up new areas, implement new measures, and create new glories
“The outstanding contributions made by overseas Chinese communities, groups and enterprises to the local economic and social development, and the loving and righteous deeds dedicated to improving people’s livelihood and helping the poor, such as the Renewed Hope, Rebirth from the Light Charity programme is remarkable.
“Our recent support on the anti-malaria campaign in Cross River State, have allowed the light of love from China to continue to shine into the hearts of the Nigerian people, shining the bright light of the love and lasting friendship between the Chinese and Nigerians.”
Also speaking, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Nigeria-China Parliamentary Relations, Mr Jaafaru Yakubu said: “The focus of Africa, Nigeria is moving towards China, and that is the reason as a committee, we are to better the relationship between Nigeria and China.
“China as the second largest economy in the world has open up to Africa and to Nigeria in particular, most especially through the Belt and Road Initiative, I will call on the attention of the African leaders to look at the deliberation, to look at the implementation of FOCAC, to look inward on how to take advantage of the pledge made by president Xi Jinping to Africa countries of about $51billion, so as to unbundle the infrastructural decay and under development happening in Africa.”
Meanwhile, Chairman of HuaXing Arts Troupe Nigeria, Dr. Eric Ni, expressed his happiness with the achievements of the Chinese Community in Nigeria just as he highlighted their contributions, including scholarships for students, support for orphanages, the construction of schools, and financial assistance for low-income earners.
Dr Ni said: “This occasion is a testament to the strong bonds of friendship and cultural exchange between China and Nigeria.
“As we come together to mark today’s event, I am happy to reflect on some of the achievements of the Chinese Community in Nigeria.
“Over the years, our community has worked tirelessly to empower and uplift low-income earners in Nigeria, while we has also awarded many scholarships to bright and deserving students across the country.
“These scholarships have enabled these students to pursue their dreams, unlock their full potential, and contribute to the future prosperity of Nigeria, let us continue to work together towards a future of shared prosperity, mutual respect, and cultural harmony.”
During the event, 40 outstanding Nigerian Arts students were awarded scholarships, while 10 cataract survivals were awarded N100,000 each.
