Nigeria and China have taken a significant step in strengthening cultural ties, using the vibrant Lantern Festival and China-Nigeria Women’s Carnival to shine a light on women’s empowerment and a shared commitment to gender equality.
The event, held at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja, brought together dignitaries and development partners ahead of International Women’s Day.
The Chinese Ambassador, Yu Dunhai, emphasised the importance of women’s role in national progress, stating: “Women are the bond of families, the cornerstone of society and a vital force driving social development and progress.”
The celebration showcased developmental achievements, with Yu noting that 690 million women had achieved a moderately prosperous life by 2025, and that maternal mortality had dropped by nearly 80 per cent. “These figures demonstrate that without the development of women themselves and their outstanding contributions, China’s tremendous development would not have been possible,” he said.
The representative of UNESCO, Jean-Paul Ngome Abiaga, praised the event, stating: “Today is more than a festive gathering. It is a living testament to the power of culture and education to build bridges between two great nations, Nigeria and China.”
Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary, Mukhtar Yanaie Muhammad, highlighted the significance of cultural exchange. “We are gathered not just to mark a date on the calendar, but to witness the beautiful fusion of two great cultures,” he said.
The event underscored the importance of women’s empowerment. Ngome Abiaga noted: “When women are equipped, communities rise. When girls are educated, the future is transformed.”
