Nigeria and China have reinforced their expanding cooperation in culture, sports and public health following a joint celebration of the maiden International Taijiquan Day in Abuja.
The event, held under the theme “China-Nigeria Good Partners – Celebration of International Taijiquan Day,” took place on Wednesday at the China Cultural Centre. It was jointly organised with the Chinese Wushu Association.
Addressing participants, Cultural Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy, Yang Jianxing, described Taijiquan as a centuries-old martial art that has gained global recognition for its cultural and health benefits. He noted that the practice has been listed by the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and is now widely practiced across more than 180 countries.
He also pointed to the recent decision by the UNESCO General Conference to designate March 21 as International Taijiquan Day, describing it as a reflection of the growing global appreciation for the discipline’s emphasis on balance, harmony and wellbeing.
According to him, Taijiquan not only preserves cultural heritage but also supports healthier living, with benefits that include improved mental wellness and better management of chronic conditions. He added that China remains committed to strengthening cultural engagement with Nigeria, particularly through frameworks such as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.
Also speaking, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, described the celebration as a multifaceted platform that blends sport with cultural and educational values.
He said initiatives like Taijiquan Day contribute to strengthening diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China, while also offering positive engagement opportunities for young people.
Dikko praised the organisers for promoting activities that encourage healthy lifestyles and youth development, adding that Nigeria remains open to deeper collaboration with China in sports and cultural exchanges, in line with the broader development agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In her contribution, Permanent Secretary of the FCT Social Development Secretariat, Olubunmi Olowookere, highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening ties between both nations.
She described Taijiquan as more than a physical exercise, noting that its combination of movement and mindfulness makes it a valuable tool for improving both mental and physical health.
Olowookere stressed that the simplicity and accessibility of the practice make it suitable for community-based programmes, as it can be adopted by people across all age groups without the need for specialised equipment.
She urged Nigerians, particularly youths, to embrace the discipline and integrate it into schools and community activities as a way of promoting wellness, social cohesion and emotional balance.
The celebration featured demonstrations of Taijiquan, including sword and fan routines, performed by local practitioners, alongside cultural displays designed to enhance mutual understanding.
