On June 6, 2024, the vibrant city of Lagos played host to a spectacular celebration of the Dragon Boat Festival, a traditional Chinese holiday that resonates with themes of unity, culture, and athleticism. The event, meticulously organized by the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos in collaboration with the Huaxing Art Troupe, took place at the renowned Shaolin Kungfu Chinese Restaurant in Festac, Lagos. This festival not only showcased Chinese traditions but also highlighted the growing cultural ties between China and Nigeria.

The Dragon Boat Festival, known as 端午节 Duānwǔ jié in Chinese, is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. It commemorates the life and death of the famous Chinese scholar 屈原 Qūyuán. The festivities typically involve dragon boat races, eating sticky rice dumplings (粽子 Zòngzi), and various cultural performances.

In Lagos, the event was a rich tapestry of cultural exchanges, featuring traditional Chinese music, dance performances, and, of course, the thrilling dragon boat race. Among the numerous highlights of the day was the art competition, which drew participation from young talents eager to display their artistic prowess.

One of the most remarkable moments of the competition was when Samuel Kalu Goldman, a student from Efe Best Chinese Training School (EBCTS), clinched the second position. His China-Nigerian family outstanding artwork captivated the judges and audience alike, earning him a cash prize of 300,000 Naira. Samuel’s achievement was not just a personal triumph but also a testament to the growing influence of Chinese cultural education in Nigeria. His participation and success underscored the significance of cross-cultural learning and the opportunities it creates for young Nigerians. Due to the remarkable display of talent coming from EBCTS overtime, Chinyere Melody Ugwu one of Efe Best Chinese Training School (EBCTS) outstanding student was specially invited to present a Chinese Song at this year Dragon Boat Festival.

The Consul General, in her address, emphasized the importance of such events in strengthening the cultural bonds between China and Nigeria. She praised the participants for their enthusiasm and creativity, noting that events like these provide a platform for mutual understanding and cooperation. The presence of the Huaxing Art Troupe, with their mesmerizing performances, added a touch of authenticity and grandeur to the celebration.

Samuel Kalu Goldman’s recognition as one of the most outstanding young artists at the festival is a significant milestone. His journey with EBCTS has evidently equipped him with the skills and confidence to excel on such prestigious platforms. This achievement not only highlights his talent but also the quality of education and training provided by institutions like EBCTS, which are pivotal in fostering cultural diplomacy.

The Dragon Boat Festival in Lagos was more than just a celebration; it was a vibrant exchange of cultures, a testament to the enduring friendship between China and Nigeria. As the festival came to a close, the spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect lingered, promising even greater collaborations in the future.