Mrs. Ikerionwu Edith, Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in Beijing, China, has called for greater use of sports diplomacy to enhance Nigeria’s international image and strengthen bilateral relations.
Edith made the call in a statement issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on Thursday.
The statement was issued on the sidelines of a reception organised by the embassy in honour of Nigeria’s victorious football team at the 26th Flames Beijing World Cup in China.
The Flames Beijing World Cup is an amateur, community-focused tournament designed to attract participants mainly from the African diaspora in China and other international amateur teams.
She described Nigeria’s victory as an outstanding achievement that reflected not only success on the pitch but also the resilience and unity of Nigerians.
“Football remains a universal language capable of bringing people together across cultures and continents. The Nigerian team has used sports as a platform to tell a positive story about Nigeria to the world,” she said.
Edith assured that the embassy would continue to support initiatives that promote Nigeria’s image and strengthen relations among Nigerians in China.
She commended the team for demonstrating teamwork, discipline, and determination throughout the competition, adding that their performance had enhanced Nigeria’s reputation among participating countries and international observers.
Also speaking, Mr. Raymond Delmut, representing the Office of the Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, praised the embassy for celebrating Nigerian excellence abroad.
He presented a book he authored to the embassy as part of efforts to promote intellectual and cultural diplomacy among Nigerians in the diaspora.
The 2026 edition of the tournament attracted officials of the Nigerian Embassy and members of the Nigerian student community in China.
