Mr. Li Xuda, the Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy, suggested that Nigeria and China can make use of fashion shows to help the textile industry grow and improve the country’s economy.
Speaking during the first edition of the Sinoma-Nigeria Fashion Show in Abuja, organized by the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria and Sinoma Nigeria Co. Ltd., Mr. Li said that fashion shows aren’t just for fun or showing culture. They’re also a way to communicate and work together globally.
“In Nigeria and China, lots of people like to watch fashion shows which are bringing more people to engage in jobs relating to the fashion industry and promoting the purchase of textiles.
“We believe that fashion shows can contribute to building a bridge for boosting the textile industry, increase the country’s GDP and advance cooperation between China and Nigeria.
“We also think that these fashion shows will help us to discover the beauty of diverse cultures and support in building up our fashion industry to reach its potential,” Li said.
Mr. Geng Fengtao, Managing Director of Sinoma Nigeria Co. Ltd., highlighted that when the economy grows, more jobs will be available, especially in textile companies.
“We are committed to bringing our most advanced technology and continue to work with Nigerian people to promote local industries such as textile for economic development.
“Clothing is not just a material; it is a rich representation of our culture and a language that adds beauty to our lives which will remain a timeless aspect of our existence.
“I firmly believe that the Sinoma-Nigeria fashion show will effectively showcase the rich culture and also promote cultural exchange between China and Nigeria,” he said.
Mr. Muhammad Sulaiman, President of the China Alumni Association in Nigeria and the Society of Nigeria Artists, appreciated the Chinese Mission and Sinoma Nigeria for arranging the event.
He mentioned the growing demand for textiles in Nigeria, expected to be high by 2027. Sulaiman believes that if utilized well, this demand can help the textile industry in Nigeria to thrive and even export textiles globally.
At the event, different traditional and modern outfits from China and Nigeria were showcased by various models, along with cultural dances from both countries.
NAN