The People's Republic of China and Nigeria have renewed commitments to deepen cooperation in tourism and cultural exchange as both countries move to strengthen ties aimed at boosting economic growth through the creative and tourism sectors.
The reaffirmation came in Abuja on Friday during the 2026 China Tourism Day celebration organised by the China Cultural Center in Nigeria, where officials, diplomats and cultural stakeholders gathered under the theme "Enjoying Quality Tourism, Exploring Beautiful Landscapes."
At a time when Nigeria is intensifying efforts to diversify its economy away from oil dependence, the event highlighted tourism as a critical frontier for job creation, investment attraction and cultural diplomacy between both nations.
Tourism as a Bridge for Mutual Understanding
Speaking at the celebration, Director of the China Cultural Center in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, said tourism remained a vital bridge for mutual understanding and shared prosperity between civilizations.
"Tourism serves as a bond for cultural exchange and a bridge for mutual understanding," Yang said, noting that both China and Nigeria possess rich cultural heritage and iconic tourist landmarks capable of driving stronger people-to-people relations.
He drew cultural parallels between major attractions in both countries, referencing China's Great Wall and Mount Tai alongside Nigeria's Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove and Zuma Rock, which he described as "silent messengers" of cultural identity and mutual respect.
Past Exchanges and Future Plans
Yang stressed that past cultural exchanges, including the "Happy Chinese New Year" celebrations in Nigeria and joint cultural festivals, had significantly strengthened bilateral friendship while exposing citizens of both countries to each other's traditions.
Looking ahead, he said China remained committed to expanding cooperation with Nigeria in heritage protection, creative industry development and tourism route promotion.
"We welcome more Nigerian friends to learn Chinese, visit China, explore its magnificent landscapes and experience its long-standing civilization," he said, adding that China also looks forward to increased Nigerian tourism inflow.
He expressed optimism that the ongoing China-Africa people-to-people exchange framework would further deepen collaboration in culture and tourism.
Nigeria's Perspective on the Partnership
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Abdulkarim Ibrahim, described the event as a reflection of the growing cultural and diplomatic ties between both countries spanning over five decades.
He said tourism remained a strong driver of economic growth and international understanding, while commending China for its contributions to cultural exchange and capacity building in Nigeria's creative sector.
"Our relationship with China in cultural exchange has continued to grow stronger. Nigeria has benefited immensely, including in training and cultural capacity development," he said.
Ibrahim noted that Nigeria, like China, is richly endowed with diverse cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, adding that the country was committed to positioning itself as a leading tourism destination in Africa.
He further praised China's tourism infrastructure and heritage preservation efforts, describing them as models of cultural presentation and sustainable development.
"The architecture, gardens and heritage sites in China show a deep commitment to preservation and presentation," he said.
Cultural Performances Showcase Exchange
The celebration also featured a series of cultural performances showcasing the depth of artistic exchange between both countries. Guests were treated to a Chinese musical performance, followed by a rendition of a Hausa folk song titled "Nyarinya," which drew applause from the audience.
A traditional Yangge dance performance, representing northern China's festive cultural expression, added colour and rhythm to the event, while the soothing sound of the Guzheng, a traditional Chinese string instrument, provided a classical musical interlude.
A poetry recitation titled "Reading China" further enriched the programme, reflecting on Chinese civilization and cultural identity through expressive storytelling.
