By Mercy Peter
The Tai Chi also known as Taijiquan is fast gaining ground in Nigeria.
Nigeria on Wednesday joined the rest of the world to mark the globally recognised International Taijiquan Day in Abuja under the theme “China-Nigeria Good Partners.”
The occasion provided Nigeria and China the opportunity to reinforce and deepen their cultural and diplomatic relations as Tai chi became a vehicle for public health, social wellbeing and cross-cultural exchange.
The event brought together government officials, cultural representatives, sports administrators and enthusiasts from both countries in a vibrant display of cooperation and shared values.
Speaking at the event, the Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, described Tai Chi as a globally recognised symbol of Chinese heritage with centuries-old origins.
According to him, the martial art has evolved into a widely practised wellness discipline with over 400 years of history, gaining international appeal for its gentle movements and health-enhancing properties.
He noted that its global relevance was further cemented when it was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2020.
Yang explained that Tai Chi promotes harmony between the body and mind, as well as between humans and nature—values that resonate across cultures. Today, he said, the practice is embraced by hundreds of millions of people across more than 180 countries and regions.
He highlighted the significance of International Taijiquan Day, observed annually on March 21, describing it as a landmark development within the United Nations system.
“This is the first international day named after a martial arts discipline, reflecting its global importance and the value it brings to health and human wellbeing,” Yang said.
He added that the Abuja celebration, held on the eve of the inaugural global observance, was designed not only to showcase Chinese culture but also to deepen mutual understanding between Nigeria and China through people-to-people engagement.
The event also underscored broader diplomatic milestones, including 55 years of relations between Nigeria and China in 2026. Yang referenced recent economic initiatives announced by Xi Jinping, particularly tariff-free measures for African exports, which he said would enhance trade and improve livelihoods across the continent.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, emphasised the intersection of sport, culture and diplomacy in the Tai Chi initiative.
“It is a convergence of culture, history, education, health and lifestyle—all in one event—and it is also a sport,” Dikko said, reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to supporting collaborations that strengthen Nigeria-China relations.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat at the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Olubunmi Olowokere, described Tai Chi as more than physical exercise, calling it “a moving meditation” with significant public health benefits.
“In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and lifestyle-related illnesses are increasing, Tai Chi offers a powerful remedy,” she said.
Olowokere noted that the discipline aligns closely with the Secretariat’s mandate on welfare and community development, stressing its accessibility and inclusiveness.
“It has no barriers—it can be practised by young and old, men and women alike. It promotes balance not only physically, but mentally and emotionally,” she added.
She urged Nigerians to adopt Tai Chi more broadly by integrating it into schools, communities and recreational centres as a means of building a healthier and more socially cohesive society.
The event featured live demonstrations by local practitioners alongside cultural exchange activities, highlighting the role of grassroots engagement in strengthening bilateral ties.
Participants were given firsthand experience of Tai Chi’s flowing movements and meditative techniques, reinforcing its growing appeal as both a wellness practice and a bridge between cultures.
