Nigeria, China Deepen Tourism, Cultural Cooperation At China Tourism Day Celebration

Nigeria and China have pledged stronger cooperation in tourism, culture, and the creative economy to boost investment and cultural exchange.

Nigeria and China have intensified efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation in tourism, culture, and the creative economy, with both countries identifying the sectors as major drivers of economic growth, cultural diplomacy, and people-to-people relations.

This commitment was reaffirmed at the weekend during the 2026 China Tourism Day celebration hosted by the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria (CCIN) in Abuja, where government officials, diplomats, tourism stakeholders, artists, and cultural enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the growing partnership between the two nations.

Speaking at the event, Yang Jianxing said tourism remains one of the most effective instruments for fostering mutual understanding and strengthening ties among nations.

He explained that the theme of this year’s celebration, “Enjoying Quality Tourism, Exploring Beautiful Landscapes,” reflects the increasing global importance of tourism as a platform for intercultural dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

According to him, both China and Nigeria possess rich historical civilizations, diverse cultural identities, and globally recognised tourism assets capable of deepening cooperation between their peoples.

Yang cited iconic destinations including the Great Wall of China and Mount Tai, alongside Nigeria’s Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove and Zuma Rock, describing them as enduring cultural symbols that continue to connect civilizations across continents.

creative assets capable of transforming the sector into a major contributor to national development and employment generation.

According to him, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy remains focused on strengthening strategic international partnerships that would attract investment, encourage innovation, and expand opportunities within Nigeria’s tourism value chain.

He called on stakeholders across both countries to embrace stronger collaboration aimed at preserving cultural heritage, empowering creative talents, and building a globally competitive tourism industry.