The Chinese Cultural Center in Abuja on Tuesday hosted a China-Nigeria Wushu Exhibition that emphasized discipline, self-control, and moral character rather than violence, as martial artists performed before diplomats, students, and youth leaders.
Speaking at the event, the Counselor and Director of the China Cultural Center in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, said Chinese martial arts are rooted in values that encourage peace and harmony, not conflict.
“A set of martial arts is not about advocating fighting, but rather about stopping the move of fighting,” he said. “Chinese martial arts reflect the philosophical wisdom of harmony between man and nature, and harmony in diversity.”
Yang explained that every movement in Wushu is intended to develop balance, patience, humility, and responsibility among practitioners. According to him, the exhibition was designed to show Nigerian youths that martial arts can serve as a tool for personal growth and character building rather than aggression.
The Wushu showcase also marked the beginning of a month-long series of cultural activities at the center. Upcoming programmes include the “Chinese Language Bridge” competition, youth art exhibitions, and exchange initiatives aimed at connecting young Nigerians and Chinese through education and creativity.
Yang noted that the programmes are focused on strengthening ties between the younger generations of both countries by promoting shared values and mutual understanding.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of Programmes at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Abiodun Ogidan, commended the Chinese Embassy for using culture as a means of deepening bilateral understanding.
He highlighted the ongoing collaboration between FRCN and the Chinese Embassy through the weekly Mandarin and cultural programme, Nao Ni Hao, which airs across more than 47 FRCN stations and zonal channels nationwide.
According to Ogidan, the programme has helped expose Nigerians to Chinese language, tourism, innovations, and cultural traditions, while strengthening the longstanding friendship between both nations.
“This partnership has provided an invaluable platform for showcasing China’s culture and achievements to Nigerians, while fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of the enduring friendship between the two countries,” he said.
He reaffirmed FRCN’s commitment to sustaining the programme as part of efforts to promote stronger people-to-people relations between Nigeria and China.
The exhibition concluded with calls from stakeholders for greater use of culture, sports, and media as tools for character development and international cooperation. Participants stressed that true strength lies in discipline, while real victory comes from living in harmony with others.
