Festival: Chinese vows to develop Nigeria, boost local customs, traditions

By David Usman 

The China Communications Construction Company, CCCC, has vowed to massively mobilize support for the development of Nigeria’s local customs, traditions and promote local engagement in the country.

The Project Manager, Jin Haibing, in a statement signed and issued to newsmen shortly after joining the residents of Nchatancha Nike Community in Enugu State to celebrate New Yam Festival, which coincided with China’s Mid-Autumn Festival.

Haibing noted that the festival brought the staff of CCCC and local residents together to brainstorm on ways to boost local cultural traditions and strengthen friendship through cultural exchange.

The New Yam Festival, known as Iri Ji in Igbo culture, is one of the major traditional celebrations among the Igbo people. 

It marks the harvest season and expresses gratitude, as well as hopes for peace and prosperity. Similarly, China’s Mid-Autumn Festival is traditionally associated with family reunion, harmony and good wishes. 

Although rooted in different cultures, both festivals reflect a shared appreciation for harvest, happiness and a better life.

The event featured traditional prayers, goodwill messages, cultural displays, traditional dances and the ceremonial presentation of new yam. 

CCCC staff and community members also interacted with one another and shared local food in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Community representatives expressed appreciation for CCCC’s long-standing involvement in local infrastructure development, its engagement with the community and its support for local development.

Over the years, CCCC has continued to promote local engagement in Nigeria.

 Alongside its infrastructure projects, the company respects local customs and traditions, participates in community and cultural activities, and maintains close ties with local residents.

The joint celebration provided an opportunity for people from different cultural backgrounds to come together, deepen mutual understanding and strengthen friendship. 

CCCC said it will continue to engage with local communities in Nigeria, fulfil its social responsibilities and contribute to stronger people-to-people ties and cooperation between Nigeria and China.