Nigeria, China Celebrate Women, Cultural Unity at Lantern Festival in Abuja

By Iyojo Ameh

Nigeria and China have reinforced their cultural and diplomatic ties as the Chinese New Year/Lantern Festival and China–Nigeria Women’s Carnival were celebrated at the Chinese Cultural Center.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Dr. Mukhtar Muhammad, said the event underscored Nigeria’s commitment to deepening cultural and tourism cooperation with China, while recognising the vital role of women in strengthening bilateral relations.

According to him, the celebration represented more than a festive gathering, describing it as a symbolic union of two rich civilisations connected by shared values of family, community and tradition.

“We are not only celebrating the Lunar New Year; we are celebrating the enduring friendship between Nigeria and China and acknowledging the central role of women in nurturing that bond,” he said.

Dr. Muhammad described the Lantern Festival as a radiant expression of hope and renewal, noting that just as lanterns illuminate the night, women illuminate pathways to development through innovation, cultural preservation and grassroots diplomacy.

He assured that the Ministry would continue to drive policies aimed at boosting cultural exchanges, expanding tourism frontiers and empowering women, particularly in the digital and creative economy sectors.

“Our goal is to elevate Nigerian women globally, ensuring they remain visible, influential and actively engaged in shaping our shared future,” he added.

In his remarks, Cultural Counselor at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, highlighted the significance of the celebration as preparations begin for International Women’s Day.

He noted that 2026 marks 55 years of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria, as well as the “China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges,” describing the milestone as evidence of growing mutual trust and cooperation.

“Women are a vital force in advancing social progress. Over the decades, exchanges between our peoples have grown stronger, and women have played a key role in that journey,” Yang said.

He also outlined China’s advancements in promoting women’s education and entrepreneurship, reaffirming his country’s willingness to deepen collaboration with Nigeria in gender equality and cultural exchange initiatives.

The Head of Office and Representative of UNESCO Office Abuja, Jean-Paul Abiaga, described the carnival as a practical demonstration of culture’s power to foster unity and understanding among nations.

He said the programme aligns with UNESCO’s priorities on Africa and Gender Equality, particularly at a time when the global community is preparing to commemorate International Women’s Day.
“When women are empowered, societies thrive. Education and culture remain transformative tools for sustainable development,” Abiaga noted.

The event featured musical performances, cultural displays, digital empowerment exhibitions and traditional cuisines from both countries, all reflecting the theme: “Lanterns Symbolizing Light and Hope, and Women Symbolizing Strength and Creativity.”

Stakeholders at the celebration expressed confidence that sustained cultural engagement would further strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between Nigeria and China.