The Chinese community in Nigeria on Friday awarded scholarships to no fewer than 63 Nigerians.

The scholarships were awarded as the community celebrated its 2022 Mid-Autumn Festival, the upcoming Chinese National Day and Nigeria’s Independence Day in Lagos.

The event, which was opened by the Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, had dignitaries from all walks of life.

“I am happy to be celebrating the two countries’ relationship today; this is indeed a platform for a reunion for all,” Mr Cui said in his remarks.

Also, the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China, Chu Moaming, urged Nigerians and the Chinese community to be committed to promoting friendly relations between the two countries.

Eric Ni, chairman, Chinese Industrial and Commercial Enterprises Association, said the scholarships were given in appreciation of the beneficiaries’ outstanding performance in the study of Nigerian and Chinese cultures.

Mr Eric noted that each student had been given N100,000 to aid their studies of Chinese and Nigerian cultures.

“Today, we are giving scholarships to another 63 Nigerian students in arts and culture,” he said. “This we will continue to do in supporting the good relations between China and Nigeria.”

Mr Eric said that as a way to continue the Chinese corporate social responsibility initiative, a new orphanage home had been opened in Ogun.

Musa Sadiq, commander, 81 Division Garrison, assured intending tourists and investors of utmost security.

Mr Sadiq said the security agents in Nigeria were determined to ensure a secure environment for all as they continue to work tirelessly in achieving this.

Ikechukwu lkoh, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, called for increased collaborations between China and Nigeria in agriculture, infrastructural development, technology, health, culture and others.

Some of the beneficiaries were Esther Fashina, Ayi Mudashiru, Daniel Idowu, Esther Akinsuru, Israel Akintobi, Yinka Akinola, Ibrahim Musa and Ngozi Mba.

Ms Fashina, who speaks both Chinese and English languages fluently, appreciated the kind gesture extended to her, urging her colleagues in Nigeria on the need to be multilingual.  

(NAN)