Both countries pledge expanded cooperation as Abuja marks 2026 China Tourism Day
By DANJUMA AMODU
Nigeria and China have intensified efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation in tourism, culture and the creative economy, identifying the sectors as key drivers of economic growth, cultural diplomacy and people-to-people relations.
The commitment was reaffirmed at the weekend during the 2026 China Tourism Day celebration hosted by the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria in Abuja. Government officials, diplomats, tourism stakeholders, artists and cultural enthusiasts gathered to mark the growing partnership between the two nations.
Speaking at the event, Yang Jianxing said tourism remained 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”, reflected the increasing global importance of tourism as a platform for intercultural dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
According to Yang, both China and Nigeria possessed rich historical civilisations, diverse cultural identities and globally recognised tourism assets capable of deepening cooperation between their peoples.
He 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 continued to connect civilisations across continents.
Yang noted that joint cultural initiatives organised over the years by both countries, including the Happy Chinese New Year programmes and China-Nigeria Cultural and Tourism Festivals, had expanded exchanges through artistic performances, traditional exhibitions and culinary experiences.
“These activities have not only strengthened friendship between our peoples but have also promoted the spirit of harmony, mutual respect and cultural inclusiveness,” he said.
He disclosed that China was prepared to deepen collaboration with Nigeria under the framework of the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, with fresh opportunities expected in heritage preservation, tourism promotion, cultural innovation and the creative industries.
Yang encouraged more Nigerians to explore educational and tourism opportunities in China while expressing optimism that more Chinese visitors would also discover Nigeria’s cultural heritage, artistic diversity and tourism potential.
Also addressing participants, Abdulkarim Ibrahim described the event as another milestone in the long-standing diplomatic and cultural relationship between Nigeria and China, which he said had continued to flourish for more than five decades.
