In a heartwarming display of festive spirit and cross-cultural friendship, the Chinese community in Lagos brought joy to approximately 2,000 Nigerian children from low-income families at a special Christmas and New Year celebration. The event, held on 23 December 2025, was organized by the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Lagos, alongside the Chinese Industrial and Commercial Enterprises Association and the Association of Chinese Women in Nigeria.
Building Bridges Through Festive Tradition
Addressing the gathering, the Consul General of China in Lagos, Ms. Yan Yuqing, stated that the annual celebration has become a cherished tradition. She emphasized its role in uniting the Chinese community with Nigerian children during the festive season, despite the physical distance between the two nations. Ms. Yuqing used the occasion to shed light on several impactful humanitarian initiatives spearheaded by the Chinese community in Nigeria.
She specifically mentioned the "Together Fight Against Hunger" Charity Program, which has provided essential food supplies to over 1,000 individuals from vulnerable households, with a focus on women and children. Another key initiative, "Renewed Hope, Rebirth from the Light," has successfully restored vision for more than 400 people suffering from cataracts. The Consul General assured that these compassionate programs would continue to operate.
Education Championed as Key to the Future
Ms. Yuqing directly encouraged the children in attendance to view education as their fundamental pathway to a brighter future. She urged them to dedicate themselves to their studies and aspire to careers in diverse fields such as teaching, science, and diplomacy. Furthermore, she motivated them to learn about China's history and culture, positioning them as future ambassadors of the enduring friendship between Nigeria and China.
This sentiment was strongly echoed by Adeniyi Saliu, the Executive Director of Lagride Nigeria Limited. He commended the Chinese community and the Consulate for their unwavering commitment to fostering strong ties between both countries. "This is the season of gifting, and the greatest gift you can give yourselves and your future is Quality Education," Saliu told the children. "The dedication you show in your studies today will open doors you cannot yet imagine tomorrow."
Scholarships and Sustained Community Support
The Chairman of the HuaXing Arts Troupe Nigeria, Dr. Eric Ni, reinforced the community's dedication to supporting education and cultural exchange. "As we celebrate the children at Christmas, let us remember that they need to get all that they deserved, because the future of this country and the world falls on them," Dr. Ni stated.
True to this commitment, the event featured the presentation of scholarships and awards to 20 cultural students. Dr. Ni confirmed that this initiative is a regular part of their efforts to support their host communities and nation. Additionally, through the "Together Fight Against Hunger" program, food items were distributed to 80 students from low-income families.
The celebration was further animated by vibrant cultural performances from the HuaXing Arts Troupe Nigeria, adding a layer of artistic exchange to the charitable and educational focus of the day. The event stands as a testament to the growing people-to-people connections that underpin the bilateral relationship between Nigeria and China.
