China praises productive collaboration with Nigeria on culture and tourism.

The People’s Republic of China has stated that its cultural and tourism exchanges with Nigeria have yielded significant results.

During the 2026 “China Tourism Day” event in Abuja, held on Friday under the theme “Enjoying Quality Tourism, Exploring Beautiful Landscapes,” Cultural Counselor Mr. Yang Jianxing made the remarks.

Yang highlighted that tourism serves as a conduit for cultural exchange and a bridge to mutual understanding, noting that both China and Nigeria are ancient civilizations with striking natural scenery and rich heritage.

“From the Great Wall and Mount Tai in China to the Osun‑Osogbo Sacred Grove and Zuma Rock in Nigeria, these landmarks act as silent ambassadors, building a strong link of mutual understanding between our peoples,” he said.

“Diversity and inclusiveness are inherent traits of our cultures, and tourism offers the most immediate and vivid way to experience this diversity and foster learning between civilizations,” Yang added.

Reflecting on past collaborations, he noted that China and Nigeria have achieved notable outcomes. “We organized the ‘Happy Chinese New Year’ celebrations, allowing Nigerians to experience the festive spirit and the importance of family reunions during the Chinese Lunar New Year,” he recalled.

He also mentioned consecutive China‑Nigeria Cultural and Tourism Festivals, which let participants from both countries deeply experience each other’s cultures through artistic performances, intangible heritage displays, and culinary experiences.

These initiatives have not only strengthened friendship but also promoted the idea of “harmony in diversity” among the people.

Looking forward, China is eager to deepen cooperation with Nigeria, using the “China‑Africa Year of People‑to‑People Exchanges” as a platform to expand practical collaboration in these fields.

We will seek broader opportunities in areas such as cultural heritage protection, creative industry development, and tourism route promotion. We invite more Nigerian friends to learn Chinese, visit China, discover its breathtaking landscapes, and immerse themselves in its rich civilization.

We also expect an increase in Chinese tourists traveling to Nigeria to experience the region’s unique allure and vibrant vitality.

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

He emphasized that tourism is a powerful tool for cultural exchange, economic development, and mutual understanding, bridging divides, nurturing friendships, and creating shared prosperity.

“Nigeria, like China, is enriched by its diverse cultural heritage, landscapes, and vibrant creative expressions. Our ministry is committed to promoting Nigeria as a premier destination while strengthening international partnerships that will support our economy in the face of climate change,” he concluded.