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The Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, has called for expanded cultural and tourism cooperation between China and Nigeria, urging stronger bilateral ties through travel, tourism and shared experiences.
Speaking on Friday at the 2026 China Tourism Day celebration in Abuja, Yang said tourism plays a key role in strengthening mutual understanding and friendship between nations.
He noted that this year’s theme, “Enjoying Quality Tourism, Exploring Beautiful Landscapes,” reflects tourism’s role in promoting cultural appreciation and global connection.
Yang encouraged more Nigerians to visit China to experience its heritage and landscapes, while also inviting more Chinese tourists to explore Nigeria.
“We welcome more Nigerian friends to learn Chinese, visit China in person, explore its magnificent landscapes, and experience its long-standing civilisation. We also look forward to more Chinese tourists visiting Nigeria to experience the unique charm and boundless vitality of this West African land,” he said.
He said both countries, as ancient civilizations, share rich cultural assets that can deepen bilateral ties, pointing to landmarks such as the Great Wall and Mount Tai in China, and the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove and Zuma Rock in Nigeria.
“From the Great Wall and Mount Tai in China to the Osun-Osobo Sacred Forest and Zuma Rock in Nigeria, these cultural and tourism landmarks act as silent messengers, building a solid bridge of mutual understanding between the two peoples,” he stated.
According to him, such sites serve as cultural symbols that foster understanding between both peoples.
He added that tourism remains one of the most effective tools for promoting cultural exchange and learning across civilizations.
Yang also stated existing cooperation efforts, including cultural festivals and “Happy Chinese New Year” celebrations, which he said have strengthened friendship between both countries through performances, exhibitions, and culinary exchanges.
He said these initiatives have helped promote the idea of cultural diversity and mutual respect.
Looking ahead, Yang said China is committed to deepening cooperation with Nigeria under the framework of China-Africa people-to-people exchange programmes.
“The China Cultural Center will continue to contribute to promoting cultural exchanges and tourism cooperation between China and Africa,” he said.
He added that future collaboration would focus on cultural heritage, tourism development, and creative industry partnerships.
The event marked the 16th China Tourism Day, observed annually on May 19.
