A Nigerian lady, Linda Onyelabara, has been crowned the winner of the ‘Good Partners of China and Africa Chinese and English Singing Competition in Nigeria 2024.’
Onyelabara clinched first place in the Chinese category of the competition, earning a prize of N500,000.
Speaking to journalists at the event, held at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja, she shared her excitement and dedication.
“I came first in the first round, and then I was called again for the finals. I started this week to practice the song I performed today (Saturday).
“I didn’t even expect that I’m going to win the first round. So I’m so excited,” she said.
Reflecting on her journey, Onyelabara revealed she had been preparing for this moment for years. “My journey started from university, where I studied business education, but at the same time, I also did Chinese language on the side. And after which, I had an opportunity of going to China. I got this Chinese scholarship. I went to China where I did my master’s in Chinese,” she explained.
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In the Chinese category, Glory Livingston and Yang Xin secured second place, each winning N300,000, while Yang Fan, Zhang Ji, and Deng Xiu Yuan shared third place, receiving N200,000 each.
The English category saw Tan Jian emerge as the winner, also earning N500,000. Guan Xin and Wang Jia Yi claimed the second position, taking home N300,000 each, while Chen Jun, Li Wei, and Qiu Liu Liu came third, with a prize of N200,000 each.
Mr. Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and Director of the China Cultural Centre, highlighted the event’s significance. He noted, “The competition showcased the beauty of music and celebrated the enduring friendship between China and Nigeria through vibrant cultural exchange.”
