Nigerian, Chinese authors collaborate to deepen cultural ties
Nigerian and Chinese writers have expressed readiness to collaborate on literary projects to strengthen cultural ties and mutual understanding between both countries.
They stated this at the August edition of the Reading and Writers Dialogue of the Abuja chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) on Sunday.
The dialogue, which was held at the Mamman Vatsa Writers Village, featured renowned Chinese novelist and poet, Mr Zhu Shanpo, as Guest Writer for the month.
The event, with the theme, “The Influence of Literature on Human Progress in China and Nigeria,” brought together authors, students and literary enthusiasts from both countries.
According to the literary scholars, Nigeria and China have rich cultural and literary heritage, with an array of writers whose works are celebrated across the world.
They said a partnership aimed at sharing literature, translation of works and stories would play significant roles in promoting understanding and people-to-people relationships between the two nations.
The Chairman of ANA Abuja, Chukwudi Eze, said the dialogue was a convergence of two great civilizations whose histories have been shaped by the penetrating power of storytelling, scholarship, and culture.
According to him, the theme of the event seeks to celebrate not only books and writers, but also the transformative influence of ideas to shape nations, bridge cultures, and inspire generations.
“Literature has always been humanity’s greatest archive. It preserves memory, questions injustice, celebrates diversity, nurtures imagination, and inspires innovation.
“Long before diplomacy found expression in treaties, literature was already fostering understanding between peoples. It reminds us that while languages may differ, our hopes, struggles, dreams, and aspirations remain remarkably alike.
“Today, ANA Abuja is proud to stand at the forefront of that noble tradition by creating a platform where Chinese and Nigerian literary voices can engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange ideas, and build lasting friendships,” he said.
Eze said the forum was a testament to the growing and mutually beneficial relationship between ANA Abuja and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.
According to him, the dialogue is an opportunity to learn from one another, celebrate our shared humanity, and deepen the bonds of friendship between Nigeria and China.
“May today’s conversations inspire new research, fresh collaborations, literary exchanges, translation projects, and enduring partnerships that will benefit generations of writers and readers in both countries,” he said.
In his presentation, the guest writer, Shanpo, highlighted the deep cultural and literary heritage shared by China and Nigeria..
According to him, contemporary literary voices in China and Nigeria need to work together and share ideas that will strengthen cultural ties between them.
“Since my early days, I anticipated and longed for my visit to Africa, especially to Nigeria, such a beautiful and great nation.
“Today, it gives me great pleasure and delight to participate in such a symposium together with my counterparts and authors in Nigeria,” he said.
Shanpo lauded renowned Nigerian writers such as Wole Soyinka and Chinua Achebe, whose works have continued to inspire readers across the world.
Apart from sports, I am more interested in Nigerian literature, because I know that Nigerian literature has a very strong presence in the western world.
“In 1986, the most famous author, Wole Soyinka, won the Nobel Literature Prize, which has a very great impact in China.
“Another great writer is Chinua Achebe, with his most famous work, Things Fall Apart, that has become most popular with writers and authors in China,” he said.
Newsmen report the the dialogue also featured a discussion panel, moderated by Udenta O. Udenta, a writer and Professor of Communication and Cultural studies.
Members of the panel included author and human rights activist, Sen. Shehu Sani,Prof Razinat Mohammed and Mr Yuan Jianxing, Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria.
In his remarks, Jianxing said Literature bridges cultural divides through sharing of historical narratives.
According to him, there is a need for Chinese and Nigerian authors to work together through cultural and academic exchanges and capacity building initiatives.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to student writers and poets.