China seeks deeper cultural ties with Nigeria to promote global peace

The government of China is seeking deeper cultural ties with Nigeria, especially in entertainment, to promote global peace.

Mr Yang Jianxing, Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria and Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy, said this while speaking at the 5th National Entertainment and Peace Summit in Abuja at the weekend.

The event organized by the China Cultural Center in Nigeria in collaboration with Drum Majors for Peace to is in commemoration of World Peace Day, 2024, with the theme “Cultivating A Culture of Peace”.

Jianxing who said cultural exchanges are important for world peace, noted that entertainment could be used to spread peace.

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He said Nigeria, like China, has a rich culture, adding that the country’s booming entertainment industry could be used to improve peace across the world.

“We are different, different countries, people, but we are the same human being. Life doesn’t always have happy moments. Sometimes we feel sad. So we need entertainment. It can make us relaxed, and we can forget sad things.

“So I think entertainment must be included in our two countries’ cultural exchange. So in my period as the director and the counsellor, I hope that, through my effort, through our efforts, the entertainment industry cooperation between the two countries will be stronger and closer,” he said.

Nsikan Paul, Executive Director of Drum Majors for Peace, said peace is more than just the absence of conflict, adding that 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.

“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

“Our commitment extends beyond this summit. We are dedicated to providing young people with platforms to discover, develop, and maximize their potential, empowering them to become responsible and patriotic citizens,” he said.