China, Nigeria Deepen Tourism, Cultural Cooperation

China has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening tourism and cultural cooperation with Nigeria as government officials, tourism stakeholders, and diplomats gathered in Abuja to mark the 2026 China Tourism Day.

The event, held at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja, brought together representatives of Nigeria’s culture and tourism sector alongside Chinese officials to promote stronger people-to-people relations under the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges initiative.

Speaking at the event, Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, described tourism as a powerful instrument for cultural exchange, friendship, and mutual understanding among nations.

He said China and Nigeria possess rich cultural heritage capable of deepening cooperation, creating economic opportunities, and strengthening diplomatic ties through tourism and cultural engagement.

“Tourism serves as a bridge connecting civilizations and peoples,” Yang said, adding that China remains committed to expanding cooperation with Nigeria in cultural heritage protection, creative industries, and tourism promotion.

He noted that both countries had made progress in cultural cooperation through initiatives such as the “Happy Chinese New Year” celebrations and the China-Nigeria Cultural and Tourism Festivals, which have enhanced mutual understanding.

According to him, China is willing to deepen practical cooperation with Nigeria in areas including tourism route development, cultural exchange, creative industries, and heritage preservation.

Yang also encouraged more Nigerians to visit China to experience its cultural diversity, historical heritage, and modern development, while expressing optimism that more Chinese tourists would explore Nigeria’s tourism destinations.

Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr. Evandu Yahana, commended the growing cultural partnership between both countries.

He said cultural diplomacy remains critical to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding economic opportunities through tourism and the creative economy.

“Events like this promote understanding, unity, and economic opportunities. Nigeria remains open to partnerships that will expand tourism development and cultural exchange,” he said.

Also speaking, Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, Aare Abisoye Fagade, highlighted tourism as a key driver of economic transformation, job creation, and youth empowerment.

He said Nigeria has vast tourism potential capable of attracting global attention through strategic partnerships and stronger cultural promotion.

“The future of tourism lies in collaboration, innovation, and cultural connectivity. Strengthening ties with China will open new opportunities for training, investment, and global visibility for Nigeria’s tourism sector,” he said.

Permanent Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat, Federal Capital Territory Administration, Mrs. Olubunmi Olowokere, described tourism as an important tool for social integration and economic inclusion.

She commended the China Cultural Centre for sustaining cultural exchange programmes that continue to strengthen relations between both countries.

The event featured cultural exhibitions, tourism showcases, and interactive sessions aimed at promoting cultural understanding and enhancing China-Nigeria cooperation in tourism and creative industries.