By: Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja
Nigeria has indicated interest to partner with China in the area of cultural exchange, branding of the creative industries, by leveraging on Chinese expertise in the sector, to boost Nigeria’s tourism and cultural sectors.
Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, stated this in Abuja, at a New Year gala to celebrating China-Nigeria friendship.
The Minister, further stressed that with Nigeria’s vast and rich cultural heritage, there is need to forge agreements and capacity-building initiatives between the two nations.
“We’ve already discussing doing a co-production agreement between Nigeria and China that will really boost growth within the creative industry. And at the same time, one or two projects that really harbour around infrastructure for the creative industry, and also for the culture as well. We hope to see how we can tap into the wealth of experience that China has had in terms of how they have branded their culture”, she stressed
Musawa, explained that China’s global influence through its cultural exports which cut across globe, something worthy of emulating.
Everywhere you go in the world, you see an aspect of Chinese culture. This is something we want to explore how we can monetize our own culture in the way China has done. China has been able to brand itself and really make China a great tourist destination with the Great Wall of China. And Nigeria has a lot to offer, so we want to see how we can work with China and learn from China to see how we can really bring wealth back also into the tourism industry”, she said
On his part, the Director Chinese Counsellor Yang Jianxing highlight the importance of cultural and people-to-people exchange in enhancing China-Nigeria relations.
Noting that the China Cultural Centre would host a series of activities in 2025 to promote culture, tourism, and education, aligning with the “Beijing Action Plan” under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
“These initiatives aim to deepen the friendship between the people of China and Nigeria. Through these activities, we have enhanced our Nigerian friends understanding of Chinese culture, and also deepened our understanding of Nigerian cul ture”, Yang said.
The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Nigeria-China Relations, Jafaru Yakubu, commended the long-standing ties between the two nations, stressing the need for stronger cultural and legislative collaboration.
“This celebration is geared toward rebuilding stronger cultural ties. The Nigeria-China Relations Group will continue to explore legislative means to strengthen bilateral relations across sectors.”
Also speaking, the Director, Drum Majors for Peace, Nsikan Paul, said cultural diplomacy play a key role in fostering peace and understanding.
“Peace is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of dialogue and collective action. Through cultural exchange and advocacy, we aim to empower youth and promote inclusivity. As we share in this gala of joy and friendship, let us renew our commitment to promoting a world where peace is not just a distant dream but a lived reality. Together, we can build sustainable communities and create a legacy of harmony that future generations will inherit with pride”, he said
The event hosted by the China Cultural Centre, had other activities such as cultural and dance displays, awards presentation, with reaffirmed commitment to expand cooperation in culture, tourism, and creative industries.
