Nigeria and China have agreed on a new partnership aimed at enhancing the tourism and creative sectors, boosting cultural exchange and economic growth

Nigeria and China are set to embark on an innovative partnership aimed at strengthening the tourism and creative industries, creating opportunities for cultural exchange and economic development.

The announcement was made following a recent meeting between the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, and Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa.

During the meeting, Ambassador Yu outlined the key aspects of the proposed collaboration, which will focus on various areas, including tech development, animation, incubation programs for young creatives, and improving visa processes for stakeholders in the tourism and creative sectors.

The ambassador emphasized that this partnership will serve as a gateway to new growth opportunities for both countries, enabling them to share knowledge, resources, and innovative ideas.

Yu Dunhai expressed confidence in the potential of the collaboration, saying, “I believe that this partnership will unlock new opportunities for growth, innovation, and cultural exchange, and I look forward to working together to make it a success.”

Minister Musawa welcomed the proposal, stressing that the partnership would further President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to deepening Nigeria’s bilateral ties with China.

She assured China of Nigeria’s dedication to fostering economic growth through this initiative, highlighting the mutually beneficial impact it would have on both nations.

With the creative sector already contributing 4% to Nigeria’s economy, Musawa expressed optimism that the collaboration would play a pivotal role in achieving the country’s target of $100 billion in investment within the sector.

She also emphasized the importance of prioritising infrastructural development, particularly in tourism. Minister Musawa mentioned iconic tourist destinations such as Yankari Game Reserve, Obudu Ranch Resorts, Tinapa, and Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls, stating that Nigeria aims to transform these sites into world-class attractions, drawing inspiration from successful tourism models in countries like Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Mexico.

“The ministry will prioritise infrastructural development and sustain its policy drive towards revamping tourism sites in the country,” she added. “Many of these beautiful, scenic sites can be replicated in Nigeria to attract more global tourists.”

This partnership is expected to enhance Nigeria’s position as a global tourism hub and foster long-term growth in the country’s creative industries, offering new opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and cross-cultural exchange between the two nations.