China, Nigeria strengthen cultural ties

Nigeria and China are deepening their cultural relationship, building on their rich historical and cultural heritage, as the growing bond is evident in the increasing number of cultural events and exchanges between the two countries.

Speaking at the 2025 China-Nigeria Culture and Tourism Festival on Saturday in Abuja, the Deputy Ambassador of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Zhou Hongyou, explained that China and Nigeria are the most ancient in peace and welcome historical and cultural heritage.”

Zhou also noted that China’s cultural diversity has shaped its rich history, with over 5,000 years of history and 56 ethnic groups.

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He said, the cultural exchange between China and Nigeria showcases the challenge of people’s economies and reflects the most ignited people who are expected in real life.

Zhou expressed his admiration for Nigerian culture, saying the performance is hilarious and the special expectations look at the incredible cultural heritage from both countries.

Also speaking, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, commended the China Culture Centre in Nigeria, African Fashion Festival Vogue, and Chinese Tourism Promoters initiative for their vision in organizing the 2025 China-Nigeria Culture and Tourism Festival.

Muhammad stated, “Festivals such as this are not just moments of entertainment; they are platforms for cultural diplomacy, creative exchange, and mutual understanding between nations.”

He noted that the festival deepens the bond between China and Nigeria, allowing people to experience each other’s traditions, cuisines, music, fashion, and artistic expressions.

Muhammad also highlighted the importance of culture and tourism in driving economic growth, job creation, and social cohesion.

He said, “We recognize that culture and tourism are not only vehicles of identity and heritage but also powerful drivers of economic growth, job creation, and social cohesion.”

The Permanent Secretary expressed his ministry’s commitment to leveraging the power of culture and tourism as catalysts for sustainable development.

He said, “The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy is committed to leveraging the power of culture and tourism as catalysts for sustainable development.”

Muhammad also stressed the potential for collaboration between Nigeria and China in areas such as cultural heritage preservation, creative industry development, and tourism promotion.

“We envision more joint projects in areas such as cultural heritage preservation, creative industry development, and tourism promotion.”

He reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that bring nations and peoples together through the transformative power of culture and tourism.