The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai has described tea as a symbol for cultural diplomacy, peace, connection, and mutual respect.
He made the comment at “2025 Tea for Harmony Yaji Cultural Salon” in Abuja, Nigeria.
Speaking further at the “tea for Harmony Yaji Cultural Salon” with the theme “Tea in Nature’s Whisper: Aroma of Picturesque Jiangnan,” Ambassador Dunhai underscored the shared cultural values between the two countries.
“China and Nigeria have many common cultural values, and tea represents harmony, connection, and respect.
“This platform allows us to interact more deeply with the Nigerian people, exchanging not just beverages, but values and ideas,” he said.
The Envoy re-emphasised China’s readiness to partner with Nigeria in value-added agricultural production, especially through tea-related trade, agro-processing, and cultural tourism initiatives.
He said during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to China in 2024, an agreement was signed to increase Nigeria’s agricultural exports to China as such they are keen on strengthening tie as well as boost the value of tea from the Mambila Plateau in Taraba State.
“Last year, our leaders convened in Beijing during the FOCAC Summit and agreed to upgrade our bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, thereby opening a new chapter in our bilateral relationship.
“We are presently implementing the “Ten Partnership Actions for Modernisation to Deepen China-Africa Cooperation (2025-2027)” with 53 African countries, including Nigeria, where cultural exchange is a vital component.
The year 2026 has been designated as the ‘China-Africa Year of Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy, Dr. Muhktar Yawale, expressed Nigeria’s eagerness to harness the creative and economic opportunities offered by tea culture.
“These initiatives align with our ministry’s mandate to promote creative economy growth through intercultural dialogue. As we savour the delicate aroma of Jiangnan’s finest teas today, let us also envision a future where Nigeria and China co-create opportunities in the creative sector.
He highlighted the country’s commitment to promoting tea-themed tourism, artisanal enterprises, and rural development.
“We are supporting creative industries centered around tea. By promoting festivals and developing tea-themed tourism, Nigeria can tap into the global tea economy while preserving local culture,” he said.
Permanent Secretary, Federal Capital Territory Social Development Secretariat, Ms. Olubunmi Olowookere, described tea as “a symbol of peace and patience,” emphasizing its role in transcending boundaries and bringing communities together.
For the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Culture and Creative Economy, Gabriel Saleh Zock who expressed support for initiatives that position culture as both a source of identity and an engine for economic growth said “Tea for Harmony – Yaji Cultural Salon” not only spotlighted tea as a shared cultural symbol but also reaffirmed the deepening ties between Nigeria and China through culture, commerce, and community.
“This event is an eye-opener. We must put in place laws that strengthen cultural identity and also position culture as an economic driver.”
The lawmaker while describing the Nigeria-China relationship as a win-win situation said China’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s developmental growth, including building railways and roads and improving the economy can not be over emphasised
The event has dignitaries from the diplomatic community, government officials, students, cultural stakeholders, and media professionals in attendance to experience traditional tea ceremonies, cultural performances, and in-depth discussions on the economic and cultural significance of tea.
The event featured a range of cultural performances, including elegant Yue Opera and pipa music by Chinese artists, as well as Chinese calligraphy and painting exhibitions and experience sessions.
