Abuja, Jan. 25, 2025- Mr Oraeluno Raphael Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering trade and tourism relationship between Nigeria and China.
Raphael made the remark in his goodwill message to mark the Chinese New Year Temple Fair on Saturday in Abuja.
According to him, the relationship between Nigeria and China is steeped in history, marked by mutual respect and shared aspirations.
“Just as the snake sheds its skin to embrace new beginnings, our bilateral ties continue to evolve, reflecting our commitment to wisdom and transformation.
“This year, as we celebrate the Lunar New Year, we are reminded of the importance of nurturing our cultural connections, which serve as a bridge between our peoples.
“Both Nigeria and China boast rich and diverse cultures, with deep historical roots that resonate through our contemporary contexts.
“From the vibrant festivals of Nigeria to the colourful traditions of China, we find common ground in our values of family, community and respect for our elders,” he said.
He also appreciated the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria for its unwavering support to the country and ministry.
“The goodwill that China has extended towards Nigeria in various sectors, particularly in culture and tourism, has been instrumental in enhancing the both countries bilateral relationship.
“The collaborative efforts in cultural exchanges, art exhibitions, and tourism initiatives have not only enriched our societies but have also created avenues for economic growth and development.
He congratulated the government of the People’s Republic of China, the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and the entire Chinese community in Nigeria on the celebration of the 2025 Chinese Temple Fair.
“It is my great pleasure to join the government of People’s Republic of China and the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and the entire community of China in Nigeria to celebrate the 2025 Chinese Temple fair also known as the spring festival.
“It is one of the extensive recognised festivals in Chinese culture,” he added.
He also reaffirmed commitment to promoting and strengthening the bilateral cultural ties between Nigeria and China.
“We are dedicated to implementing policies and programmes that foster cultural exchange, support artistic collaborations and enhance Tourism opportunities.
“We envision a future where our cultural interactions flourish, creating a network of shared experiences that benefit both nations,” Raphael said.
In his remarks, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Yu Dunhai revealed that the Year of the Snake in the Chinese Zodiac, starting on Jan. 29, 2025, heralds a significant chapter in the thriving relationship between China and Nigeria.
He also noted that the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation acted as a catalyst for elevating the strategic partnership between China and Nigeria.
“Following a successful meeting between the two heads of state, the countries pledged to enhance cooperation across various sectors, exemplifying a model of mutual benefit and Win-Win collaboration for the Global South.
“The commencement of the forecast Vision Action Plan in 2025 signals a new era of progress and collaboration between China and Nigeria.
“Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s recent visit to Nigeria further solidified the commitment to expanding cooperation and implementing key agreements made at the highest levels of leadership,” he said.
Yu also congratulated Nigeria for officially joining the BRICS group as a partner country, a move that not only bolsters Nigeria’s social and economic development prospects but also augments cooperation within the BRICS framework.
“We believe that the inclusion of Nigeria, as the most populous and largest country in Africa, is a testament to the country’s growing influence on the global stage,” he said.
The highlight of the event was performances by top artists from Beijing, together with their Nigerian counterparts and more than 20 snack stands in the food court with over 90 Chinese delicacies.
