Africa-Press – Nigeria. The Lagos-based Huaxing Arts Troupe Nigeria stormed the premises of Federal Housing Primary School and Awoyaya Primary School, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Thursday, to entertain and educate the pupils on China and Nigeria’s robust cultural heritage.
The event featured different onsite school activities such as cultural dance, martial arts display, musical drama, and other cultural performances. It was a moment of fun and excitement for the pupils, who trouped out in their numbers to experience their local and Chinese cultural flavour.
The highlight of the event was the momentary entry of the Lion Dance troupe, which spontaneously sparked excitement from the pupils, including invited parents. The artistry display of the performers also ignited thunderous applause from the pupils. Other Chinese cultural performances included the Waist Drum Performance, Kung Fu display and Lady Dancers. The pupils of both schools performed Farmers Dance, Traditional Wrestling Dance and more.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Eric Ni, Chairman, of Huaxing Arts Troupe, restated China’s commitment to supporting young children to further spur improved educational development.
“Today, we have witnessed the power of cultural exchange, as our talented HuaXing Arts Troupe showcased the vibrant and mesmerizing Chinese cultural dances, while the students of these esteemed schools brought forth the rich and diverse tapestry of Nigerian culture,”
Dr. Ni said. “It is through these exchange programmes that we learn to appreciate and celebrate our differences, fostering understanding and unity among our nations.
“I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the immense contribution that the Chinese community has made to Nigeria’s educational landscape through scholarships and various educational initiatives. The Chinese community has provided countless opportunities for Nigerian students to pursue their dreams and aspirations.
“Education is the gateway to a brighter future, and we are committed to continuing our support in this crucial area. However, today’s event is a testament to the fact that our contributions extend beyond education. Culture is a powerful tool that connects people, transcending borders, and language barriers.
“It is through cultural exchange that we can truly appreciate the beauty and richness of each other’s traditions. By sharing our cultural heritage, we build bridges of understanding and friendship.
“I am immensely proud of the performances we have witnessed today. The dedication, talent, and passion displayed by each and every performer is truly commendable. It is through their hard work and commitment that we are able to experience the magic of cultural diversity,” he said.
The Huaxing Arts Troupe Nigeria, consisting mainly of Nigerian dancers, is a leading advocate of cultural exchange between China and Nigeria and is proficient in traditional Chinese and Nigerian dance styles. They collaborated with the China National Traditional Orchestra in August for a dazzling event of cultural fusion named “Sharing Chinese Harmony, Performing Nigeria China Symphony.” The troupe excels in traditional dance from both China and Nigeria.
The troupe’s performance was well-received by the pupils, who were able to learn about Chinese culture without having to travel to China. The troupe, courtesy of Chinese Community in Lagos, also donated money to select pupils of the schools to stimulate learning while stationery was supplied to both schools.
Also present were Mr Otuere Donatus, Head Teacher, Victoria Island Lagos; Mrs Ajibola, Head Teacher, Awoyaya Primary School; Mrs Williams, Head, Resource Centre; Mr Abass, Head, Computer Centre and Mrs Okafor, Head Teacher, Federal Housing Primary School.
Federal Housing Estate Housing Primary School performed the Farmers’ Dance to show the importance of dignity in labour. The Head Teacher of the school, Mrs. Okafor Francisca Onyebuchi and Mrs Ajibola, Head Teacher of Awoyaya Primary School thanked the Chinese Community for this cultural exchange program and support to the growth of education in Nigeria.
“The cultural exchange program is an excellent initiative that has opened the window of opportunity for our pupils to gain firsthand knowledge and interact with the Chinese cultural heritage,” Mrs Okafor said.
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