The Confucius Institute, University of Lagos (UNILAG), celebrated the 2025 Dragon Boat Festival on June 3, 2025, at Tayo Aderinokun Hall, UNILAG. The event brought together students, staff, and community members to experience Chinese culture.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Development Services), Prof. Afolabi Lesi, represented the Vice-Chancellor at the event. He acknowledged the Institute’s creative leverage of the university’s lagoon facility for the celebration of the Dragon Boat Festival in a way that is unmatched in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, the Chinese Consul- General, Ms. Yan Yuqing, congratulated the Confucius Institute and the University of Lagos management for successfully hosting the annual Dragon Boat Festival. She highlighted the festival’s significance as one of China’s four major traditional celebrations.
The Chinese Director of the Institute, Professor Wu Shuang, warmly welcomed and thanked participants for being part of the ancient celebration, with a history of over 2,800 years. She urged students of Chinese language and culture to stay committed to their studies, emphasizing the value of persistence. She ended her address by wishing all participants a delightful stay and a deeper appreciation for Chinese heritage.
The Nigerian Director of the Institute, Professor Obi Iwuagwu, stated that the institute’s mission is to spread Chinese language and culture through its non-profit initiatives.
The event was a vibrant celebration of Chinese culture, featuring a diverse range of performances including dance, poetry recitation, drama, solo and group songs, and an impressive Kung Fu display
The highlight of the culinary experience was Zongzi, a traditional Chinese delicacy made from glutinous rice and dates, lovingly prepared by Professor Wu Shuang, Director of the Confucius Institute, and enthusiastically sampled by guests.
Notable dignitaries at the event were: representative of the Registrar, Mr. Oluwaseyi Sanya from the Council Affairs Unit; representative of Bursar, Mrs. Juliana Adeeyo, Nigerian Navy personnel; the Deputy Director, Confucius Institute, Dr. Yetunde Ntekim-Rex, among others. The Confucius Institute at UNILAG was founded in 2009 as a collaborative effort between the University and Beijing Institute of Technology. The Institute focuses on promoting Mandarin language instruction, cultural understanding, and international exchange programs.
Report: Ojo-Alo Oluwatoyin
Photograph: Akanni Islamiat
