The Confucius Institute, University of Lagos (CI, UNILAG) on Thursday, February 26, 2026, hosted a grand celebration to mark the Chinese Spring Festival, ushering in the Year of the Fire Horse.
Themed: Blending Festive Elegance, Bridging Chinese and Nigerian Culture, the festivity was held at the Tolu Odugbemi Hall, UNILAG, Akoka. It also featured a vibrant Spring Cultural Fair.
Distinguished Attendance and Institutional Representation
The celebration attracted an array of distinguished guests, including the Acting Consul-General of China in Lagos, Wang Yue, as well as representatives of leading Chinese enterprises and organisations such as Midea Nigeria, Morgan International Heavy Industry Machinery Commercial City, Nigerian Chinese Women’s Federation, Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, China Harbour Engineering Company, China Road and Bridge Corporation, and Transsion Holdings.
The University community was well represented by faculty members and students from various departments, alongside members of the Confucius Institute led by its Chinese Director, Professor Wu Shuang, and Nigerian Director, Professor Obi Nwagwu. The Dean, Faculty of Creative Arts, Professor Steven Olusoji, represented the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, while Mrs. Adebimpe Ajelabi of the Academic Affairs Directorate stood in for the Registrar.
Prior to the formal celebration at Tolu Odugbemi Hall, the Acting Consul-General of China in Lagos accompanied by the Institute’s Chinese and Nigerian Directors, toured the Confucius Institute. The visit provided an opportunity for Wang Yue to observe CI’s teaching facilities and daily operations, as well as engage with faculty and students.
Strengthening China–Nigeria Cultural Relations
In his remarks, Professor Olusoji described the Spring Festival as a symbol of renewal, hope, family unity, and prosperity.
He noted that the Year of the Fire Horse signifies energy and forward momentum, explaining that the festival begins with the first new moon of the lunar calendar and is marked by weeks of preparation, family reunions, and symbolic traditions.
He further emphasised the growing Nigeria–China partnership, particularly in infrastructure development and cultural exchange, describing the festival as a meaningful platform for cultural diplomacy.
In her address, Professor Wu Shuang highlighted traditional Spring Festival customs and the auspicious symbolism associated with the Year of the Horse. She extended wishes for success, vitality, and prosperity in the year ahead.
Professor Wu described 2026 as a significant year for China–Africa cultural exchange, marking the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria. To commemorate this milestone, she announced that the Institute would launch a “Telling Nigeria’s Stories in Chinese” competition, encouraging students to share Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage through the Chinese language and further strengthen mutual understanding.
Also speaking, Professor Obi Nwagwu applauded University Management for sustaining a partnership that has become firmly rooted within the UNILAG community. He encouraged faculty and students to actively participate in the Institute’s programmes to deepen friendship and enhance intercultural engagement.
In his remarks, Wang Yue reviewed the positive achievements recorded in bilateral cooperation in education and culture in recent years and reaffirmed China’s commitment to expanding cultural exchanges. He commended the Confucius Institute’s vital role in fostering mutual understanding and strengthening the longstanding friendship between the peoples of China and Nigeria.
Cultural Performances and Recognition
The celebration featured a rich array of cultural performances, opening spectacularly with a traditional lion dance by the Huaxing Arts Troupe.
A group dance conveying New Year blessings drew enthusiastic applause, while a classical Chinese dance showcased the elegance of traditional aesthetics. A comic dialogue performance delighted the audience with witty exchanges, and a musical drama delivered heartfelt emotion.
A stirring bel canto solo of My Motherland resonated throughout the hall, culminating in a spirited chorus of I Believe.
The Institute also recognised outstanding students for their academic achievements, encouraging them to serve as ambassadors of Chinese language learning and cultural exchange within and beyond the University community.
The celebration not only ushered in the Year of the Fire Horse with colour and festivity but also reaffirmed the enduring cultural ties and growing partnership between Nigeria and China.
Report: Oluwatoyin Ojo-Alo
Photograph: Islamiat Akanni
