By Favour Ulebor, Abuja

The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria have restated their commitment to deepen China–Nigeria relations, using cultural exchange to promote health and cooperation.

At an event on Wednesday in Abuja during the celebration of International Tai Chi Day,
aimed at promoting wellness, cultural understanding and people to people ties, Director of the China Cultural Centre and Counsellor at the Embassy, Yang Jianxing, said the event also serves as a platform to implement agreements reached at the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

Speaking on the summit outcomes, Jianxing said, “In 2026, we, the Chinese Embassy and China Cultural Centre, are willing to work with our Nigerian friends to earnestly implement the outcomes of the 2024 Beijing Summit and the important consensus reached by our leaders, build more exchange platforms, and promote cultural exchanges between China and Nigeria.”

He said China is also expanding economic opportunities for African countries.

Jianxing explained that Tai Chi is not just a martial art but a health practice recognised globally.

He noted that it has been listed by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage and is widely practised.

“Last month, in his congratulatory message to the 39th African Union Summit, President Xi Jinping announced that China would fully implement zero-tariff measures on 53 African countries, including Nigeria. We are working to ensure this initiative boosts trade, improves livelihoods, and contributes to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

“Currently, hundreds of millions of people in over 180 countries and regions practise it. Taijiquan is a unique symbol of traditional Chinese culture, showcasing a harmonious lifestyle,” he said.

He added that the practice promotes balance, mental wellness and harmony with nature.

Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Malamse Dikko, said the event highlights the role of culture in diplomacy and healthy living.

“This is a convergence of culture, history, education, health and lifestyle in one event. It also enhances diplomacy and cultural exchanges between Nigeria and China,” he said.

Also speaking, Permanent Secretary, Social Development Secretariat, FCTA, Olubumi Olowokere, said Tai Chi offers both physical and social benefits.

“Tai Chi is a moving meditation, a perfect synthesis of physical health and mental wellness. It promotes balance not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Integrating a discipline like Tai Chi into community development frameworks presents a unique opportunity for the welfare and empowerment of our people,” she said.

The summit followed engagements between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, which upgraded relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Both countries are now working to strengthen cooperation in trade, infrastructure, energy, digital economy and other sectors, while aligning development plans to boost growth and create jobs.

They also agreed to deepen collaboration in artificial intelligence, agriculture and industrial development, and to support peace and stability in West Africa, the Sahel and the Gulf of Guinea.