- Chinese Ambassador Cui Jianchun outlines ‘DRAGON’ cooperation: Development, Revitalization, Assistance, Guidance, Opportunity, and Nationalism, strengthening China-Nigeria bonds
- National Council for Arts and Culture’s Otunba Olusegun Runsewe praises China’s cultural richness, envisions cultural exchanges for mutual growth
In a festive celebration at the Chinese Cultural Centre in Abuja, the Chinese community in Nigeria welcomed the Year of the Dragon with a commitment to fortify the bonds between China and Nigeria.
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, highlighted the significance of the dragon symbol, emphasizing its potential to enhance the relationship between the two nations. Using the acronym ‘DRAGON,’ he outlined key aspects of cooperation.
“D” stands for development, stressing the collaborative efforts of both countries to advance their nations. According to Jianchun, progress at an individual and societal level is intricately linked to national development.
“R” represents revitalization, particularly in the aftermath of the challenges posed by COVID-19. Both China and Nigeria have dedicated efforts to rejuvenate their economic sectors, fostering resilience and growth.
“A” signifies assistance, with Jianchun underlining the potential for mutual support between the African giant, Nigeria, and the Asian powerhouse, China. He believed that joint efforts would lead to further progress and development.
“G” stands for guidance, referencing the Chinese president’s initiative to foster global cooperation to reject war, violence, and crises. Jianchun believes this initiative aligns with the interests of Nigeria and the entire world.
“O” signifies opportunity, with the ambassador expressing optimism about the prospects for collaboration in the Year of the Dragon. Discussions between China and Nigeria focus on identifying opportunities for shared advancement.
“N” represents nationalism, emphasizing the importance of a shared national identity. Jianchun drew parallels between China’s diverse ethnic groups and Nigeria’s rich cultural tapestry, underscoring the significance of nationalism in fostering development and progress.
Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, praised China for showcasing its cultural richness. Highlighting the cultural diversity of both nations—China with 56 ethnic groups and Nigeria with nearly 400—Runsewe emphasized the potential for cultural exchanges to benefit both countries.
Runsewe pointed out Nigeria’s historical and heritage sites, envisioning their transformation into recreational, religious, and commercial hubs akin to the Chinese Temple Fair. Strengthening cultural ties with China, he suggested, could tap into the cultural expertise of both nations for mutual growth.
As the Chinese Lunar New Year kicks off on February 10, 2024, under the auspices of the powerful Dragon, the festivities mark a symbolic start to a year representing strength, wisdom, luck, and prosperity.