The Hua Xing Arts Troupe Nigeria, in collaboration with the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos and Hormony Culture Office of China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, recently organized a cultural event to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival and Nigeria Children Drawing Competition. The event aimed to foster cultural ties between China and Nigeria, showcasing artistic talent and promoting educational development.
The Festival Hotel in Festac Town, Lagos, was the venue for this vibrant cultural gathering, which saw the participation of 1,200 students from primary and secondary schools in a drawing competition. Students enthusiastically submitted their drawings, and 24 finalists were chosen to showcase their artistic skills and creativity. These finalists were rewarded with cash prizes ranging from N50,000 to N100,000.
In addition to the drawing competition, children had the opportunity to engage in various enjoyable games. Chinese Consul General Ms. Yan Yuqing, accompanied by women from the Chinese community, taught the children how to make zongzi, a popular Chinese wrapped rice dumpling, which Consul General Yuqing compared to a Nigerian delicacy called Moi-moi.
Expressing her delight at the event’s success, Consul General Yan Yuqing highlighted the significance of the Dragon Boat Festival and its role in commemorating the renowned Chinese poet and patriot Qu Yuan. She emphasized the importance of parents educating their children about patriotism and service to their country. Consul General Yuqing also underscored the shared historical and cultural heritage between China and Nigeria, and the aim of the cultural exchange was to nurture appreciation for both nations’ traditions among the younger generation.
Deputy Commissioner of Police and First Olympic Gold medalist Chioma Ajunwa-Opara, who also attended the event, emphasized the foundational role of education in personal growth, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Ajunwa-Opara highlighted the importance of nurturing creativity and sports alongside education to help children achieve their dreams and aspirations.
Chairman of the Commercial Enterprises Association and Hua Xing Arts Troupe Nigeria, Dr. Eric Ni, praised the skill, creativity, and hard work demonstrated by Nigerian children during the event. Recognizing children as the future of any nation, he pledged continued support for their education and sports development while promoting cultural exchange between China and Nigeria.
The Dragon Boat Festival, celebrated annually on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar, serves as a platform for people to come together and celebrate art, culture, and education. The recent event organized by the Hua Xing Arts Troupe Nigeria, in collaboration with Chinese entities, successfully fostered cultural exchange between China and Nigeria. Through the encouragement of education, creativity, and sports, the event aimed to create a well-rounded generation capable of contributing to both nations’ future. With continued support and collaboration, China and Nigeria can strengthen their friendship and partnership on the path of cultural appreciation and mutual understanding.
