Abuja Set to Host 2025 Chinese Ambassador’s Cup Wushu Championship

By our Correspondent

Preparations are in top gear for the 2025 edition of the Chinese Ambassador’s Cup – Wushu Championship, also known as the China–Nigeria Friendship Cup, scheduled to hold from October 29 to 31 at the Velodrome, National Stadium, Abuja.

The annual event, jointly organised by the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and the National Sports Commission (NSC), will feature Wushu athletes from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with winners and participants receiving cash and consolation prizes.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Mr. Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counsellor and Director of the China Cultural Centre, said the championship goes beyond competition, describing it as “a celebration of shared values, discipline, and mutual respect.”

“The purpose of this event is not just to compete but to bring together people who love Chinese martial arts to experience the beauty and spirit of Wushu,” Yang explained.

“Wushu is not about defeating others but about self-discipline, respect, and helping the weak. Through this event, we hope both Chinese and Nigerian athletes will find inspiration, confidence, and friendship.”

Yang emphasized that martial arts have for centuries served as a bridge between cultures, fostering peace and understanding among nations. He described Wushu as “a way of life that combines strength with compassion,” adding that the competition underscores China’s commitment to deepening cultural and people-to-people ties with Nigeria.

Also speaking, Mykel Eneduwa, Patron of the FCT Wushu Association and President of the Kickboxing Federation of Nigeria, commended the Chinese Embassy for its consistent efforts in promoting martial arts in the country.

“Wushu teaches respect, integrity, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit—values we need to build the leaders of tomorrow. This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about the values and lessons that come with it,” Eneduwa said.

He explained that this year’s China–Nigeria Friendship Cup will feature six divisions, including Taiji (Tai Chi), Sanshou (Sanda), team forms, creative forms, and various weight categories for both male and female participants. Eneduwa further disclosed that registration is free, while accommodation and feeding will be provided for athletes during the championship.

In his remarks, Sesan Adeboyejo, North Central Zonal Representative of the Nigeria Wushu Kung Fu Federation and official of the NSC, described the event as a “historic collaboration” in sports and culture.

“This partnership between the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Wushu Kung Fu Federation is what we have long dreamed of, and it’s now a reality. The purpose of this event is youth engagement and cultural exchange between Nigeria and China,” Adeboyejo noted.

He applauded the Chinese Embassy for its continuous support toward the development of martial arts and sports diplomacy in Nigeria, assuring that the NSC remains committed to strengthening such collaborations.

“On behalf of the Federation and the National Sports Commission, I express deep appreciation to the Chinese Embassy for organising this event and inviting us to collaborate. It’s a partnership that will leave a lasting impact on our athletes and cultural ties,” Adeboyejo added.

SummitPost Nigeria reports that the three-day championship aims to further promote sportsmanship, cultural understanding, and friendship between Nigeria and China through the ancient art of Wushu.