By Yemi Akinsuyi
The 13th edition of the China–Nigeria Cultural Fiesta has once again brought colour, culture, and creativity to life, celebrating the enduring friendship between the two nations as students from Federal Capital Territory (FCT) schools dazzled with outstanding performances.
The annual event, organized by the Chinese Cultural Centre in collaboration with the FCT Secondary Education Board (SEB), showcased the rich cultural heritage of both countries through music, dance, and visual arts, while promoting mutual understanding and global friendship.
Speaking at the colourful event, the Permanent Secretary, Social Development Secretariat, Ms. Olubunmi Olowookere, who represented the FCT Head of Service, commended the collaborative initiative for its continuity and sustainability over the past 13 years.
She noted that the bilateral relations between China and Nigeria have continued to grow stronger through consistent cultural engagement and mutual respect.
In her goodwill remarks, the Permanent Secretary, FCT Education Secretariat, Mrs. Joy Okeke, representing the Mandate Secretary for Education, applauded the partnership for fostering cross-cultural understanding, creativity, and character building among FCT students.
She also appreciated the Chinese Cultural Centre for its continuous efforts in engaging young learners through programs that enrich their academic and cultural experiences.
Earlier, the Director/Secretary of the FCT Secondary Education Board, Dr. Mohammed Sani Ladan, described the event as another milestone in the celebration of cultural exchange and cooperation between Nigeria and China.
He explained that the fiesta provided a platform for students to exhibit their creativity and talents, thereby strengthening bonds of friendship and mutual understanding between both nations.
Dr. Ladan commended the Cultural Counsellor, Mr. Yang Jianxing, and his team for their unwavering support, and praised teachers and students for their dedication and active participation in extracurricular activities. He reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to sustaining bilateral relations through educational and cultural programs that positively impact students.
In his opening speech, Mr. Yang Jianxing, the Cultural Counsellor and Director of the Chinese Cultural Centre, described the 2025 fiesta as a demonstration of shared values of peace, harmony, and creativity between China and Nigeria. He expressed appreciation to participating students for their impressive performances and artworks, reaffirming China’s commitment to supporting youth development, education, and cultural exchange.
Teachers and Students who participated described the event as a memorable and enriching experience that encourages artistic expression and deepens cross-cultural appreciation in a relaxed and friendly environment.
The fiesta featured two main categories of performances which are Nigerian Dance and Chinese Dance, each showcasing the beautyy and diversity of both cultures with seven schools participating for Nigerian Dance Category while eight schools participated for Chinese Dance Category.
The highlight of the event was the award presentation ceremony, to the various winners where the 1st Position in Nigerian Dance goes to Government Girls Secondary School, Dutse and Government Secondary School, Wuse Zone 3 emerged 1st position in Chinese Dance with gift of Refrigerator each.
The 2nd Position in Nigerian Dance was Government Secondary School, Gwarinpa, Same 2nd position goes to
Government Day Secondary School, Dutse in Chinese Dance with Generator each as a gift.
Government Secondary School, Tudun Wada, Wuse Zone 4 and
Government Secondary School, Nyanya clinched the 3rd positions in Nigerian Dance and Chinese Dance with Radio gift respectively.
In the Drawing Competition, students received cash prizes ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦200,000, recognizing their creativity and artistic excellence in interpreting the theme of China–Nigeria friendship.
The 13th China–Nigeria Cultural Fiesta came to a successful end with vote of thanks by the Director, Bilateral Relations, FCT Secondary Education Board, Mrs Toluwa Omolaiye who acknowledged the efforts of both the Board and Chinese Cultural Centre for the remarkable event with performances best described as outstanding from FCT Schools.
She said the cultural displays, and performances are a celebration of Unity between the two countries.
