By: Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja
The People’s Republic of China and Nigeria have restated commitment to strengthen collaboration in the entertainment sector. The collaboration aims to cultivate a culture of peace and promotion of cultural diplomacy, as well as contribute to global efforts for a more peaceful world.
The Director China Cultural Center and Counselor of the Chinese Embassy, Mr. Yang Jianxing, stated this, at the 5th National Entertainment Peace Summit, in commemoration of World Peace Day in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
The theme of this year’s summit, “Cultivating A Culture of Peace”, connects deeply with the core of our gathering today.
Mr. Jianxing, also explained that entertainment and peace go hand in hand in taking away negative emotions, providing relaxation and promoting a sense of unity among different people despite their diverse backgrounds.
Jianxing stressed on the need to foster peace through cultural and entertainment initiatives.
“Entertainment can help alleviate negative emotions by providing relaxation and a means to forget temporary sadness. Cultural exchange is very important in promoting peace . Entertainment must be promoted to be a cultural exchange hub between the two countries towards economic development. The cooperation, entertainment between the two countries will be very important in the future. Therefore China places great importance in people to people communication and friendship through cultural exchange for global peace”. He said
He further urged all to embrace the entertainment industry, as cultural exchange through entertainment can be a powerful tool for future collaborations and hard work.
“During my period i hope to promote the entertainment industry and cooperation to be more stronger and closer. We have to deepen mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence between each other through entertainment. Our hope here at the cultural centre is to eliminate the barriers and enhance mutual understanding and recognition through cultural exchange. Chinese people love drumming and express joy through drumming”. He said
Mr. Nsikan Paul the Executive Director, while speaking at the event, said that the goal of the summit was to promote peace through entertainment while striving to sustain peace through diverse means.
“At Drum Majors for Peace, we believe that peace is more than just the absence of conflict; It is a condition of harmony that must be cultivated by intentional acts and efforts. Our group, is committed to promoting peace, inclusivity, and social cohesion through the powerful channels of entertainment, dialogue, youth development, and creative empowerment. Today, as we come together under the banner of peace, we are reminded of the immense power of creativity in shaping a better world. Through positive entertainment and meaningful dialogue, we aim to build sustainable cities and communities that are inclusive, fair, and resilient; aligning our efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 1, 2, 11, 16 and Goal 17”. He explained
Mr. Paul, further urged all to embrace the principle of tolerance.
“Our commitment extends beyond this summit.
We are dedicated to providing young people with platforms to discover, develop, and maximize their potentials, empowering them to become responsible and patriotic citizens. We are especially proud of our joint efforts to promote peace via the arts, as evidenced by our win as the Grand Prize winners of the Energy China Dance Competition, sponsored by the Chinese Cultural Center and Energy China Nigeria. As we engage in dialogue and exchange ideas about building a culture of peace, let us have the drive to act in our own communities and embrace the principles of tolerance, inclusivity, and unity. Together, we can create a future where peace is not just a goal but a way of life”. Paul added
According to the Group Managing Director, Unicorn Holdings Limited, Dr. Ayodeji Mafikuyomi, entertainment events create platforms for cultural exchange.
“Entertainment is universal language that transcends boarders and connects of all, no matter where we come from or what language you speak, through its grateful movement, dance speaks language of joy, resilience and hope, reminds us that despite our differences, We all share the same desire of peace, love and understanding. As we immerse ourselves into this performances, let us also reflect on the significance of dialog and collaboration. Events like this are more than a modern cultural showcases,They are vital. Platform for intercultural exchange where we celebrate diversity and build bridges across our differences. there is no better way to celebrate world peace day among the youths and peoples from different countries. He added
Dr. Mafikuyomi,, added that Art inspires lasting peace to distress heart.
In time like this where conflict and discord frequently arise, it is through art and shared experience like this that will inspire lasting, positive change. Each performance today goes beyond entertainment. It tells the story of hope and unity. These stories remind us that the things that unite us are far more stronger than those that divide us, let us carry forward the deeper meaning of this festival, let it serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring us to foster understanding, collaboration and respect in our communities, and in our everyday life. Festivals like this remind us of simple truth. We are one, through, dance through music, and through moment of shared joy , you can cultivate the culture of peace and transcend borders and unit us..
Other highlights of the event were music performance, Cultural display and award presentation .
The National Entertainment and Peace Summit, was organized by China Cultural Center in Nigeria n partnership with the the Drum Majors for Peace, to commemorate World Peace Day, 2024, with the theme , “Cultivating A Culture of Peace”
