By Nkechi Eze
The spirit of friendship and cultural exchange between China and Nigeria came alive on Sunday as the grand finale of the Good Partners of China and Africa – 2025 Chinese and English Singing Competition lit up the China Cultural Centre in Abuja. The colourful evening brought together diplomats, artists, and music lovers in a vibrant celebration of shared creativity and cross-cultural harmony.
Jointly organised by the China Cultural Centre and the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, with Eighteenth Company International Limited as the event organiser, the competition showcased an inspiring fusion of languages, rhythms, and emotions. Contestants from both nations performed songs in Chinese and English, weaving together melodies that reflected the beauty of cultural diversity and mutual appreciation.
At the end of the captivating contest, Glory Livingstone emerged winner in the Chinese category, with James Augustine and Onyinye Chioma taking second place, while Yang Xin, Shen Lili, and Zhu Xiangyang shared third position. In the English category, Zhang Ji claimed the top spot, followed by Lu Yongbin and Wang Jiayi in second place, while Liu Yiming, Ekpete Edima Friday, and Igwe Okezie jointly took third place.
The top three winners in each category received cash prizes of ₦400,000, ₦300,000, and ₦200,000 respectively, while other participants were honoured with consolation prizes for their outstanding performances and creativity.
In his remarks, Mr. Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Centre, described the event as a “cultural bridge” connecting the people of China and Nigeria through the universal language of music.
“Music has the power to unite hearts and cultures,” he said. “Chinese folk and pop music embody the spirit of the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers, while Nigeria, the heartbeat of African music, brings the vibrant rhythm of Afrobeat and the deep traditions of its diverse ethnic heritage.”
Yang highlighted that the friendship between China and Nigeria has thrived for more than five decades, grounded in mutual trust, equality, and shared development goals. He noted that cultural exchange remains a cornerstone of this enduring relationship, helping to strengthen people-to-people ties and understanding.
“This event reflects the vision of the People-to-People Exchange Partnership Action proposed by President Xi Jinping at the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation,” he explained, adding that platforms such as the singing competition help cement the foundation of friendship and collaboration between both nations.
He further commended the contestants for their talent and enthusiasm, urging them to serve as “ambassadors of culture and friendship,” spreading the spirit of unity beyond music and across borders.
Also speaking, Mr. Cui Gwangzhen, Director-General of the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, lauded the organisers and participants, noting that the annual competition has evolved into a key platform for cultural dialogue. He said the initiative continues to foster greater appreciation of both countries’ artistic heritage and deepen the bond between Chinese and Nigerian communities.
The evening concluded with resounding applause, symbolising not just the success of the competition but also the growing symphony of friendship, understanding, and cultural partnership between China and Nigeria.
