China-Nigeria Friendship Celebrated at 6th China-NUJ Table Tennis Tournament
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China-Nigeria Friendship Celebrated at 6th China-NUJ Table Tennis Tournament
Event Fosters Cultural Exchange and Sportsmanship Between China and Nigeria
The China Cultural Centre in Nigeria (CCCN), in partnership with the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council, recently hosted the 6th edition of the annual China-NUJ Table Tennis Tournament in Abuja.
The event brought together players from both nations, showcasing a blend of friendly competition and cultural diplomacy.
This tournament, a key initiative of the CCCN, serves as a platform for enhancing bilateral relations between China and Nigeria, with an emphasis on promoting cultural exchange and people-to-people diplomacy. Over the years, it has become one of the most anticipated events in the Nigerian sports calendar.
CCCN Director Highlights Growing Bilateral Ties
During the opening ceremony, Yang Jianxing, Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, emphasized the significance of the tournament in strengthening the ties between the two nations. He pointed out that table tennis is a widely loved sport in both China and Nigeria, making it an ideal vehicle for fostering mutual understanding.
“This tournament is not just a sporting event, but a testament to the deepening friendship between Nigeria and China,” Yang remarked. “We are committed to using sports and cultural exchange programs like this to build stronger bonds between our countries. It is through such efforts that we can promote peace, cooperation, and understanding.”
Yang also took the opportunity to express his gratitude for the support extended by the Nigerian government and people, acknowledging the warm hospitality they have received.
NUJ Chairman Applauds China-Nigeria Collaboration
The Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Mr. Patrick Osaretin Osadebamwen, also delivered an inspiring speech, recognizing the invaluable contribution of the Chinese community in the success of the event. He praised their dedication to the shared goals of both nations and expressed hope for continued cooperation in the future.
“We gather here today to compete, not just for the title, but in the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship,” Osadebamwen said. “While language barriers may exist, the language of sport transcends all. This tournament is an opportunity to learn from each other and deepen the understanding between our peoples.”
Osadebamwen highlighted the importance of the event in bridging cultural gaps and fostering international collaboration, noting that the businesses of both communities have played a significant role in enhancing bilateral engagement.
FCT Table Tennis Association Calls for Broader Engagement
The Chairman of the FCT Table Tennis Association, Navy Captain Jelani Umar, represented by Iyiola Ogundele, Deputy Director of Sports Development, FCT Sports Department, also addressed the gathering. He stressed the importance of table tennis not only as a competitive sport but also as a means of staying physically active in an age dominated by technology and sedentary lifestyles.
“Table tennis offers a simple yet effective way of keeping fit. In today’s world, where many people spend hours on their phones, engaging in a sport like table tennis is an excellent way to stay active,” Ogundele stated. He acknowledged the vital role of the Chinese Embassy in supporting the tournament, especially considering China’s global reputation for excellence in table tennis.
Plans for the Future of Table Tennis in Abuja
Ogundele further shared the FCT Table Tennis Association’s vision for expanding the sport beyond the tournament. The association aims to nurture young talent, particularly in schools, and revitalize the sport in communities across the FCT. Ogundele revealed plans to collaborate with local authorities to transform existing viewing centres into community table tennis hubs, offering both recreational and competitive opportunities for residents.
“Part of our plan is to engage with the Area Council Authorities to replace viewing centres, which have unfortunately become hotspots for illicit activities, with community table tennis centres,” Ogundele explained. “This initiative will not only help revive interest in the sport but also provide opportunities for economic empowerment through sports.”
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