Raphael Oni
As the Year of the Horse dawned, Nigeria and China came together to celebrate 55 years of diplomatic ties, marked by mutual respect, robust cooperation, and shared prosperity. The Chinese New Year Temple Fair, held at the Chinese Cultural Centre, Abuja, was a testament to the enduring bond between the two nations.
The Director General of Nigeria China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Joseph Tegbe. In his speech, Tegbe highlighted the transformative impact of China-Nigeria cooperation. In his words, “The horse, in Chinese tradition, symbolizes strength, endurance, and progress. In Nigeria, the horse proudly adorns our Coat of Arms, representing dignity, courage, and the forward march of our people,” Tegbe said. “Nigeria reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the One-China Principle, guiding our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with China.”
Tegbe outlined key achievements, including China’s contributions to Nigeria’s infrastructure rebirth, such as the ongoing rail revolution and landmark projects like the Lekki Deep Sea Port. He also highlighted the National Integrated Poultry Project, a $1 billion initiative aimed at enhancing food security and creating jobs.
“This project is not merely about food security, it is about jobs, dignity, and opportunity for Nigerians,” Tegbe emphasized. He also mentioned the revitalization of Ajaokuta Steel Complex, which promises to transform Nigeria’s economic trajectory and position the country as a leading manufacturing and innovation hub in Africa.
Chinese Chargé d’Affaires Zhou Hongyou echoed these sentiments, emphasizing people-to-people exchanges. “The Spring Festival conveys values of peace and harmony,” he said. “We have exchanged students, engaged in joint scientific research, and set up more ‘China Corners’ programs in schools.”
Hongyou highlighted collaborations in culture, tourism, and education, including the successful launch of the Chinese-language radio program “Ni Hao! China”. He also mentioned the upcoming China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, which provides an opportunity to deepen exchanges and cooperation.
As Nigeria and China look to the future, both nations are optimistic about their partnership. Tegbe emphasized the importance of delivering tangible benefits to citizens, saying, “For our partnership to thrive sustainably, it must deliver real benefits to Nigerians and Chinese alike.”
Hongyou concurred, stating, “We look forward to working with friends from all sectors in Nigeria to build a high-level community with a shared future, further deepen political mutual trust and mutual support, and enhance exchanges and cooperation in the field of people-to-people and cultural exchanges.”
The celebration was not limited to speeches; it featured vibrant cultural performances, including traditional Chinese music and dance, and a photo exhibition showcasing Chinese Spring Festival culture and tourism. Attendees also enjoyed authentic Chinese cuisine and participated in interactive games and activities.
As the event drew to a close, it was clear that the China-Nigeria partnership is stronger than ever. With a shared vision for the future, both nations are poised to gallop forward, driven by mutual respect, cooperation, and a commitment to shared prosperity.
The Year of the Horse promises to be a momentous one for China-Nigeria relations, with both nations set to deepen their strategic partnership and explore new areas of cooperation. As Tegbe put it, “May the Nigeria-China partnership continue to gallop ahead, delivering prosperity to our nations and strengthening the bonds of friendship between our peoples.”
Hongyou echoed this sentiment, saying, “May the friendship between the Chinese and Nigerian peoples gallop forward like a fine horse, moving bravely ahead and shining even more brilliantly in 2026!”
The Chinese New Year Temple Fair was a resounding success, showcasing the warmth and camaraderie between China and Nigeria. As both nations look to the future, their partnership is set to reach new heights, driven by mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared vision for prosperity.
