By Folarin Kehinde

In a bid to deepen cultural understanding and strengthen people-to-people ties between China and Nigeria, China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC) recently organised a Dragon Boat Festival cultural exchange programme at its Enugu New Town Road Project site.

The event, themed “Zongzi Aroma Spreads Warmth, Jointly Building the Silk Road,” brought together Chinese and Nigerian employees who celebrated the traditional Chinese festival while sharing aspects of their respective cultural heritage.

As part of the programme, participants watched a bilingual documentary highlighting the history and customs of China’s Dragon Boat Festival. Nigerian staff members also introduced their Chinese colleagues to the traditions and significance of the Igogo Harvest Festival.

The exchange revealed common values shared by both cultures, including patriotism, gratitude, unity and the collective pursuit of a better life, fostering greater mutual understanding and respect.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Project Manager, CCCC, Jin Haibing noted that the event aligns with the objectives of the Year of China-Africa Cultural Exchange and coincides with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria.

According to Haibing , the Dragon Boat Festival celebration demonstrates how infrastructure cooperation can serve as a platform for stronger people-to-people connections, while reinforcing the friendship and collaboration between Chinese and Nigerian workers contributing to the development of critical infrastructure in Nigeria.

A major highlight of the event was a food preparation session during which Nigerian employees taught their Chinese counterparts how to make Okpa, a popular delicacy widely enjoyed in southeastern Nigeria. The interactive activity encouraged teamwork, cultural learning and friendship among participants.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to localisation and community engagement, stressing that beyond delivering quality infrastructure projects, it remains dedicated to promoting cultural exchanges, skills development and community support initiatives.

At the conclusion of the programme, both Chinese and Nigerian workers penned goodwill messages, expressing hopes for successful project delivery, family wellbeing and enduring friendship between the two countries.