China, Nigeria Mark Historic Day With First International Taijiquan Day.

By Ferdinand Olise

The Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Mr. Yang Jianxing, has underscored the importance of culture as it aligns with the philosophical concept of harmony between man and nature.

Speaking on Wednesday at the China-Nigeria Good Partner Celebration of the first International Tiajiquan (Tai Chi) Day in Abuja, Mr. Jianxing said the event aims to showcase the unique charm and profound heritage of Tai Chi, sharing excellent traditional Chinese culture and a scientifically healthy lifestyle with the people of Nigeria.

Taijiquan also known as Tai Chi is one of the Chinese Wushu (martial arts) with a history of hundreds of years. In December 2020, Taijiquan was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

It is a unique symbol of traditional Chinese culture, showcasing a natural and harmonious lifestyle, and practiced by hundreds of millions of people in more than one hundred and eighty countries and regions around the world.

Speaking on the health benefits of Taijiquan, Mr Jianxing said scientific research shows that Taijiquan has significant effects on improving chronic diseases and enhancing mental health, and that its concept of “prevention of disease” is being incorporated into the global public health system.

“In November 2025, the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference adopted a resolution designating March 21st as International Taijiquan Day. This not only echoes the natural rhythm of the spring equinox, a balance of day and night, of temperature, but also aligns with the philosophical concept of “harmony between man and nature” in Taijiquan.

“This is the first international day in the UN system named after a martial arts discipline, signifying the widespread global recognition of the important value of Taijiquan. This event, held on the eve of the first International Taijiquan Day, aims to showcase the unique charm and profound heritage of Taijiquan, sharing excellent traditional Chinese culture and a scientifically healthy lifestyle with the people of Nigeria.

“Today at the event, local martial arts enthusiasts from Abuja will perform wonderful Taijiquan, Taiji sword, and Taiji fan demonstrations for us, and share their experiences with everyone. Meanwhile, to celebrate the first “international Taijiquan Day,” we have also prepared a variety of cultural exchange programs between China and Nigeria.

“2026 marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria, and is also the “China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. Over the past 55 years, political mutual trust between the two countries has deepened, economic and trade cooperation has yielded fruitful results, people-to-people exchanges have become increasingly close, and we have supported each other in international affairs, making the friendship between China and Nigeria ever stronger.

“China is willing to work with Nigeria to ensure that this major initiative is implemented and takes effect as soon as possible, using tariff reductions to boost trade, multiply people’s livelihoods, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic and social development, working together on the path to modernization.

“In 2026, we are willing to work with Our Nigerian friends to continue to earnestly implement the outcomes of the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, solidly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state during the summit, build more exchange platforms, promote cultural exchanges between China and Nigeria”, he said

The Permanent Secretary, Social Development Secretariat of the FCTA, Mrs. Olubunmi Olowokere, said the principles of Tai Chi offer a powerful antidote as it is a moving meditation, a perfect synthesis of physical health and mental wellness, which aligns with the mandate of the Social Development Secretariat.

“Today, we celebrate Tai Chi. Tai Chi is a moving meditation, a perfect synthesis of physical health and mental wellness. In our fast-paced world, where stress and lifestyle-related illnesses are on the rise, the principles of Tai Chi offer a powerful antidote. This is where the mandate of the Social Development Secretariat aligns perfectly with the spirit of this celebration. Our core responsibility is the welfare, empowerment, and well-being of the Residents of the Federal Capital Territory. We are constantly seeking innovative and accessible ways to improve the quality of life for our people, from youth development to the care of the elderly, and gender inclusion”, she said.

The event featured several displays of cultures, several performances including Taijiquan teaching, demonstration and interactive session.