China has called on the Nigerian government to prioritize investments in safety, infrastructure, and tourism promotion to accelerate economic growth and development.
Speaking at the Nigeria-China Seminar on Tourism, Hospitality, and Culture 2024 in Abuja on Tuesday, Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Yang Jianxing, highlighted the untapped potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector to boost GDP and foster sustainable development.
“Nigeria, as the most populous country in Africa, has a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural assets such as music, dance, and art,” Yang remarked. “Tourism has immense potential to drive development, foster cultural exchange, and strengthen international friendships.”
The seminar, themed “Promoting Nigeria-China Tourism, Hospitality, and Cultural Potentials for Sustainable Development,” also showcased China’s achievements in the tourism industry. Yang noted that in 2023, China recorded 4.89 billion domestic tourists, 87.63 million outbound tourists, and 82.03 million inbound tourists. He added that global tourism is projected to grow at an annual rate of 5.8%, outpacing the global economic growth rate of 2.7%.
Director General of the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, Cui Guang-Zhen, emphasized Nigeria’s vast cultural diversity and tourism potential, citing global music stars like Burna Boy and Wizkid as examples of Nigeria’s global cultural influence. “With over 100 languages, Nigeria is rich in cultural resources, but more investment is needed to fully harness its tourism potential,” Guang-Zhen said.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Mr. Raphael Obi, represented by Blessing Ogar, acknowledged the critical role of tourism and hospitality in economic transformation. “These industries reduce unemployment and empower underserved communities, particularly youth and women,” Obi said, lauding China’s integration of tourism and cultural heritage as a model for Nigeria.
The seminar provided a platform for both nations to explore avenues for collaboration, aiming to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector.
