The Peoples Republic of China has underscored that tourism has become more than leisure and recreation, describing it as a strategic sector capable of creating jobs, strengthening diplomacy, preserving cultural heritage, and boosting economic diversification. cultural enthusiasts to strengthen tourism and cultural cooperation between China and Nigeria.
This was disclosed at the 2026 China Tourism Day celebration, hosted by the China Cultural Center in Nigeria, which became a platform for exploring stronger partnerships in tourism development, cultural exchange, hospitality training, and investment opportunities.
In his welcome address, the Director of the China Cultural Center in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, said this year’s theme, “Enjoying Quality Tourism, Exploring Beautiful Landscapes,” reflects the power of tourism in promoting friendship, mutual understanding, and cultural appreciation.
He stressed that tourism remains one of the strongest instruments for connecting people and civilisations.
“Tourism serves as a bond for cultural exchange and a bridge for mutual understanding,” Yang stated. “China and Nigeria are both ancient civilizations possessing magnificent natural landscapes and profound historical and cultural heritage”, he stressed.
According to him, landmarks such as the Great Wall and Mount Tai in China, as well as the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Forest and Zuma Rock in Nigeria, symbolise the cultural richness of both nations and serve as “silent messengers” fostering friendship between their peoples.
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Yang added that previous collaborations such as the Happy Chinese New Year celebrations and China-Nigeria Cultural and Tourism Festivals had strengthened bilateral ties and expanded cultural diplomacy between both nations.
“Looking to the future, China is willing to work with Nigeria to deepen practical cooperation in culture and tourism. More Nigerian visitors are encouraged to explore China’s landscapes and civilization while Chinese tourists are equally invited to experience Nigeria’s vibrant culture and hospitality”, he added.
Also speaking, Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Abdulkarim Ibrahim, described the relationship between Nigeria and China as one that has grown stronger over five decades.
According to him, China’s investment in tourism infrastructure and heritage conservation offers important lessons for Nigeria as it seeks to reposition its tourism sector.
“Tourism remains a powerful tool for cultural exchange, economic growth and mutual understanding among nations. The cultural relationship between Nigeria and China has dated over five decades and still counting“, he said.
Abdulkarim Ibrahim, represented by the Director International and Cultural Relations, Yohsnna Evandu added that tourism continues to play a key role in cultural diplomacy and economic growth.
“Tourism remains a powerful tool, It bridges gaps, fosters friendships, and creates opportunities for shared prosperity,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s Social Development Secretariat, Olubumi Oluwokere, described tourism as a strategic tool for peacebuilding, economic growth, and cultural connectivity.
“Today’s event is more than a celebration of tourism, It is a celebration of people, culture, heritage, connectivity and shared aspiration”, he said.
She highlighted Abuja’s growing tourism potential, noting that the Federal Capital Territory possesses “rich cultural diversity, iconic landscapes, arts and crafts, festivals, culinary heritage and vibrant creative expressions.”
According to her, the FCT Administration is pursuing initiatives aimed at revitalising cultural infrastructure, empowering local artists, and promoting community-driven tourism in alignment with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Dr. Aare Fagade, said China’s tourism success story offers valuable lessons for emerging tourism economies such as Nigeria.
“China’s remarkable tourism story stands today as a global model of strategic planning, infrastructure development, cultural preservation, innovation and human capital advancement,” Fagade stated.
He reaffirmed commitment to strengthening partnerships with Chinese institutions in areas including tourism education, hospitality training, cultural exchange, tourism technology, and destination marketing.
Fagade added that tourism remains one of the strongest instruments for peace, cultural understanding, economic growth and international friendship.
As Nigeria’s growing ambition to position tourism and culture as major drivers of economic growth took center stage at the celebration, participants expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between Nigeria and China would create new opportunities for investment, cultural understanding, and sustainable tourism development across both countries.
The celebration featured cultural exchanges, networking sessions, and discussions on expanding bilateral cooperation in tourism, hospitality, and the creative economy.
