Collaboration with Nigeria on culture, tourism very productive – China

The People’s Republic of China has acknowledged that its exchanges and collaborations with Nigeria in the areas of culture and tourism have produced significant and noteworthy outcomes.

Mr. Yang Jianxing, the Cultural Counselor, made this statement during the 2026 “China Tourism Day” event held in Abuja on Friday, themed “Enjoying Quality Tourism, Exploring Beautiful Landscapes.”

He emphasized that tourism acts as a link for cultural exchange and a bridge for mutual understanding, noting that both China and Nigeria are ancient civilizations with stunning natural landscapes and rich historical and cultural heritage.

Yang remarked, “From the Great Wall and Mount Tai in China to the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove and Zuma Rock in Nigeria, these cultural and tourism landmarks serve as silent ambassadors, establishing a strong bridge of mutual understanding between our two peoples.

“Diversity and inclusiveness are inherent traits of our cultures, and tourism provides the most immediate and vivid means to experience this diversity and foster mutual learning among civilizations.

“Reflecting on the past, the exchanges and collaborations between China and Nigeria in culture and tourism have yielded significant and remarkable results. We successfully organized the ‘Happy Chinese New Year’ series of celebrations, allowing the Nigerian populace to engage with the festive spirit and cultural importance of family reunions during the Chinese Lunar New Year.

“Additionally, we conducted consecutive China-Nigeria Cultural and Tourism Festivals, which enabled individuals from both nations to profoundly experience the essence of each other’s cultures through various forms such as artistic performances, displays of intangible cultural heritage, and culinary experiences.

“These initiatives not only strengthened friendships but also instilled the idea of ‘harmony in diversity’ in the hearts of the people.

“Looking ahead, China is eager to collaborate with Nigeria, using the ‘China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges’ as an opportunity to further enhance practical cooperation in these fields.

“We will seek broader opportunities for collaboration in areas such as the protection of cultural heritage, the development of creative industries, and the promotion of tourism routes. We invite more Nigerian friends to learn Chinese, visit China firsthand, discover its breathtaking landscapes, and immerse themselves in its rich civilization.

“We also anticipate an increase in Chinese tourists traveling to Nigeria to experience the unique allure and limitless vitality of this West African region.”

Additionally, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Abdulkarim Ozi Ibrahim, represented by Yohanna Evandu, Director of International Cultural Relations at MACTCE, remarked that the cultural ties between Nigeria and China span over five decades and continue to strengthen.

He emphasized that tourism serves as a significant instrument for cultural exchange, economic development, and mutual understanding among nations, as it bridges divides, nurtures friendships, and creates opportunities for shared prosperity.

“Nigeria, like China, is enriched by its diverse cultural heritage, landscapes, and vibrant creative expressions. As a ministry, we are dedicated to promoting Nigeria as a premier destination while simultaneously strengthening international partnerships that will bolster our economy in the face of climate change.”

Collaboration with Nigeria on culture, tourism very productive – China