By Mustapha Salisu
As the world ushers in the Chinese Lunar New Year, members of the Chinese community in Kano today, joined millions globally to mark the festive occasion with joy, prayers, and cultural unity at Red China Restaurant.
Speaking during the celebration on New Year’s Eve, Ms. Jiang Jun, a Chinese businesswoman from Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, who is based in Kano, described the celebration as one of China’s most important festivals, symbolizing togetherness, renewal, and goodwill.
According to her, the Chinese New Year’s Eve dinner, known as the “reunion dinner” is a cherished tradition where family members and friends gather to eat, drink, exchange blessings, and pray for a prosperous year ahead.
“At this very happy moment, we send our most sincere wishes to our family members and all our good friends, hoping that everyone will have a prosperous and healthy New Year with good fortune. Happy Horse New Year,” Ms. Jun said.
She noted that the annual celebration goes beyond cultural borders, as Chinese residents in Kano now share the joy of the New Year with their Nigerian partners and friends.
“Every year, we celebrate together with our Nigerian customers and friends. Tomorrow marks Da Nian Chu Yi—the first day of the Chinese New Year—and we will host both Chinese and Nigerian guests at our home to celebrate, pray, and bless each other,” she added.
Ms. Jun highlighted the strong ties between Kano and China, noting that many Chinese nationals are engaged in various sectors of the state’s economy, including agriculture and manufacturing.
“Kano and China enjoy a very good relationship. Many Chinese are doing business here, some in agriculture, others in factories and we maintain close and friendly cooperation,” she emphasized.
She extended heartfelt New Year wishes to the people of Nigeria, particularly residents of Kano, as well as to her relatives and children in China.
On his part, Mr. Lok, Manager of Red China Restaurant in Kano, described the Chinese New Year as a deeply rooted cultural heritage that dates back more than 5,000 years, adding that it remains one of the most cherished celebrations among the Chinese people.
Mr. Lok explained that some Chinese nationals working in Kano could not travel home to China for the celebrations because of their business commitments, noting that some remain behind to keep their companies running.
He expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality of the Kano people, noting that the city has become a second home for many Chinese residents.
“Our people really enjoy living in Kano. The people here are friendly, and we all live together like brothers. Although some people in China are still hesitant to come, I can say that Kano is very supportive and more comfortable for us compared to some southern areas like Lagos,” he said.
According to him, the cultural similarities between Kano and Chinese traditions make the environment more welcoming and familiar.
“The culture here is quite similar to Chinese culture, which makes it easier for our people to adapt. So, we gather here as one big family to celebrate the Chinese New Year,” he added.
