The 2024 Nigeria-China Seminar on Tourism, Hospitality, and Culture took place today at the China Cultural Center in Abuja, marking a significant step towards enhancing collaboration between the two nations in the tourism sector.
The event was co-hosted by the China Cultural Center and the Youth Tourism Development Organization (YTDO) Nigeria, bringing together a diverse group of distinguished guests.
Among the attendees were Mr. Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria; Cui Guang Zhen, Director-General of the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria; Hon. Zainab Gimba, Member of the House of Representatives; and Prof. Sheriff Ghali Ibrahim, Director of Contemporary Africa-China Research. The seminar also attracted government officials, tourism ambassadors, and members of the diplomatic community.
In his address, Counsellor Yang Jianxing said the seminar’s objective is to promote collaboration and exchange between Nigeria and China, aligning with the outcomes of the recent Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). He emphasized the importance of tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation.
“Tourism is not just an escape to new environments; it is a vital industry that drives economic growth and creates employment opportunities. Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation, is endowed with unique cultural and natural resources,” Yang stated.
Yang, who also serves as the Director of the China Cultural Center, urged stakeholders to invest in safety, infrastructure, and promotional activities to unlock Nigeria’s tourism potential.
“With its rich history, music, dance, and art, Nigeria has immense opportunities for tourism development,” he added.
Also speaking, Okon Emmanuel, founder of the YTDO Nigeria, said the seminar aims to leverage initiatives from China’s robust tourism sector and explore ways Nigeria can benefit from the various initiatives that China has created.
He acknowledged Nigeria’s current developmental challenges in the tourism sector and expressed a strong desire for collaboration.
“We want the Chinese government to show us the road, so we can elevate our tourism development,” Mr Okon stated.
He expressed optimism about future collaborations, particularly the establishment of exchange programs between Nigeria and China. He believes that such initiatives will not only benefit the youth but also enhance Nigeria’s tourism landscape.
On his part, Raphael Obi, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy emphasized the critical role of the tourism and hospitality industries in driving global economic growth.
Represented by Blessing Ogar, Obi noted the untapped potential within Nigeria’s tourism sector to diversify the economy, reduce unemployment, and empower marginalized communities.
He urged participants to focus on empowering youth and women, recognizing their crucial role as catalysts for innovation and sustainability within the industry.
The seminar also featured presentations, cultural and musical displays, and the presentation of prizes to winners of a tourism essay competition, showcasing the vibrant cultural exchange between Nigeria and China.
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