3 - Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy in Sino-Nigerian Relations: Rethinking Economic and Cultural Globalization

Paper Abstract: Over time, Sino-African partnerships have grown stronger through economic cooperation and diplomacy as a foreign policy tool, which appear as an alternative to the imperialistic legacies of Western nations in Africa. Although China's economic diplomacy is well documented, little is known about its cultural diplomacy that has risen at nearly the same pace. Much like its economic initiatives, China's cultural diplomacy also targets African countries, with an annual allocation of 5–6 million Chinese Yuan. This study seeks to interrogate whether China's presence in Africa, particularly Nigeria, is driven more by genuine economic cooperation or by a subtle pursuit of cultural dominance. While experts have focused extensively on China's economic diplomatic relations, the impact of cultural diplomacy on African local culture has been negligible. This study investigates how Chinese culture has influenced local cultural preferences in Nigeria through various channels: the proliferation of Chinese cuisine and restaurants in major cities; the establishment of Confucius Institutes in Nigerian universities and their impact on language and education; the popularity of Chinese fashion in local markets; the influence of China Global Television Network (CGTN); and the proliferation of Chinese mobile phones and digital devices. While this growing eco-cultural interaction has substantially challenged Western cultural dominance in Nigeria, it also raises important questions about the future of Sino-Nigerian relations. Scholars have described China's approach as either a ‘charm offensive’ or a form of ‘soft power,’ sparking debates over whether the alliance will lead to prosperity or dependency. This study ultimately examines whether China’s development assistance is shifting from poverty alleviation to the promotion of its cultural values, and the implication that this action may have for Nigeria's cultural identity.