By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.

In a bold cultural diplomacy move, the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has officially launched the Chinese Ambassador’s Cup Wushu Championship, also known as the Nigeria–China Friendship Cup — a martial arts event aimed at deepening cultural ties through the ancient art of Wushu.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Mr. Yang Jianxing, Director of the Chinese Cultural Centre, emphasized the deep appreciation the Chinese people have for Wushu and how the sport now serves as a bridge of friendship between the two nations.

“This is more than just a competition,” Yang said. “It is a gathering of spirits, a cultural celebration, and a message of peace, discipline, and unity between China and Nigeria.”

Dr. Mykel Enedawa, Patron of the FCT Wushu Association, reminded the press that Wushu is not just about combat but also about values such as respect, discipline, and integrity — qualities he believes are essential in building Nigeria’s next generation of leaders.

“Wushu teaches us to be better humans, not just better fighters,” Dr. Enedawa emphasized. “This competition brings together athletes from all 36 states and gives even beginners a platform to shine.”

Yang added that, in a rare move for grassroots sports in Nigeria, the Chinese Embassy is sponsoring not only travel and accommodation for participants but also cash rewards.

Additionally, in a show of strengthened diplomatic ties and empowerment for the winners, the following prizes will be awarded:

1st Prize: ₦500,000
2nd Prize: ₦300,000
3rd Prize: ₦200,000
Consolation prizes will also be given for effort and perseverance.

“This is one of the first times athletes will be financially rewarded for Wushu in Nigeria,” said Dr. Enedawa. “It’s a huge morale boost.”

The event is open to Wushu enthusiasts of all levels — from seasoned competitors to new learners. Participants will compete in six divisions, including:

Tai Chi
Traditional Forms
Creative Forms
Group Demonstrations
Sanda (Combat) – ages 17+
Children’s Categories – ages 5+

“This is grassroots sports development in action,” said one official. “We’re building the future of martial arts in Nigeria,” Dr. Enedawa noted.

He also announced the event dates and venue:

Preliminaries: October 29, 2025
Finals and Closing Ceremony: October 30–31, 2025

To ensure fairness and standardization, a referee training course will be held before the event, following international Wushu regulations with slight local adjustments.

The 2025 Championship marks the second edition of the Ambassador’s Cup, with the first held in 2018. Organizers now aim to make it an annual cultural exchange.

“Cultural exchange is the soul of diplomacy,” said Mr. Jianxing. “We may have strong economic ties, but it’s our people and traditions that will carry our friendship forward.”

The event is jointly organized by:

Chinese Embassy in Nigeria
National Sports Commission of Nigeria
China Cultural Centre in Nigeria
Abuja Wushu Association

In closing, Mr. Jianxing reflected on the power of cultural exchange:

“Through Wushu, we discover discipline, confidence, and peace — values shared by both Nigerian and Chinese people. This event is a chance to learn from each other and grow together.”

This isn’t just a martial arts competition — it’s a celebration of culture, youth, unity, and mutual respect. As over 150 Nigerians** step onto the mat, the message is loud and clear: Wushu is more than a sport — it’s a shared language between nations.