China, Nigeria deepen ties through Wushu friendship cup competition

The 2025 edition of the Chinese Ambassador’s Cup –Wushu Championship, popularly known as the China–Nigeria Friendship Cup, has been announced with a renewed commitment to using martial arts as a bridge of cultural understanding between both nations.

Speaking during the media briefing at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja, the Cultural Counselor at the Embassy of China in Nigeria and Director of the China Cultural Centre, Mr.

Yang Jianxing, described the championship as “a very meaningful and interesting event” that showcases the “beauty and spirit of Chinese Wushu culture.”

“The purpose of this event,” Mr. Yang said, “is to create an opportunity to bring people together athletes and lovers of Chinese martial arts, especially Wushu to enjoy the beauty and the spirit of the culture. We are happy that so many Nigerian friends share this love with us.”

He noted that Wushu, beyond its physical aspect, embodies values of peace, discipline, and moral strength.

“In Chinese martial culture, Wushu is not merely about mastering skills or defeating an opponent,” he explained. “It teaches self-defence and inner strength. A stronger person has the responsibility to help the weaker. That is the true way of Wushu culture.”

Yang emphasized that through Wushu, Nigerians and Chinese alike could “become stronger, more confident, and more united,” adding that the event reflects the mutual respect and growing friendship between both countries.

Mr. Yang added that the competition is jointly co-hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and the National Sports Commission, with organization led by the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria and the Abuja Wushu Association.

“We encourage more people to come and witness the event,” he urged. “However, due to limited space, interested guests will need to register online using a QR code or attend with an invitation card.”

“Through the universal language of martial arts,” Yang concluded, “we hope to continue building bridges of friendship and mutual respect between the people of China and Nigeria.”

Also speaking, Mr. Mykel Eneduwa, Patron of the FCT Wushu Association and President of the Kickboxing Federation of Nigeria, lauded the Chinese Embassy for consistently promoting martial arts as a tool for cultural exchange and youth development.

“Wushu is not just about combat,” Eneduwa stated. “It’s a sport that teaches respect, integrity, indomitable spirit, and progressive values. These are values we need to build the future leaders of tomorrow.”

He disclosed that the tournament would feature athletes from all 36 states of Nigeria and the FCT, competing across six divisions including Taijiquan, traditional forms, and creative routines.

“This tournament isn’t just about competition,” he said. “It’s also about learning values and expressing oneself through Wushu. We’ll have children and athletes from all over the country — from professionals to beginners — coming together to showcase what they’ve trained for over the years.”

Eneduwa further announced that the championship would feature cash prizes and other incentives, noting that it would be “one of the few times Nigerian athletes would be financially rewarded for their participation.”

“The first prize will be ₦500,000, the second ₦300,000, and the third ₦200,000, with consolation prizes for effort and perseverance,” he revealed. “Athletes will also enjoy free accommodation, feeding, and registration during the event.”

The two-day championship will be held on October 29 and 30, 2025, at the Package B, National Stadium, Abuja.