Abuja: Mr Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, has urged Nigeria to prioritize investments in safety, infrastructure, and tourism promotion to stimulate economic growth and development. Yang made this appeal during a seminar on Nigeria-China Tourism, Hospitality, and Culture 2024, themed ‘Promoting Nigeria-China Tourism, Hospitality, Cultural Potentials and Services for Sustainable Development.’
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Yang, who also serves as the Director of the China Cultural Centre, highlighted the potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector in boosting GDP and driving sustainable growth. He pointed out that tourism not only contributes to economic prosperity but also enhances cultural exchanges and strengthens international relations. “Nigeria, as the most populous country in Africa, boasts a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cultural assets, such as music, dance, art, and clothing. Tourism has immense potential to drive development,” Yang stated
. He expressed hope that more Chinese tourists would visit Nigeria to experience its vibrant culture, art, and natural beauty.
Yang further highlighted China’s achievements in the tourism sector, noting that in 2023, the country witnessed 4.89 million domestic tourists, 87.63 million outbound tourists, and 82.03 million inbound tourists, with expectations of continued growth in 2024. He also referenced the World Travel and Tourism Council’s 2022 report, which forecasts an average annual growth rate of 5.8 percent for the global tourism industry over the next decade, surpassing the global economic growth rate of 2.7 percent.
Mr Cui Guang-Zhen, Director General of the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, reiterated the need for increased investments in tourism. He emphasized Nigeria’s cultural richness, noting that with over 100 languages, the country is abundant in cultural and tourism resources. Cui mentioned the global popularity of Nigerian music, featuring stars like Burna Boy and Wizkid, and st
ressed the necessity for more investment to fully exploit its tourism potential. Having lived in Nigeria for a decade and visited popular destinations like Calabar, Cui emphasized the importance of infrastructural development and targeted initiatives to attract international visitors.
Mr Raphael Obi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, represented by Blessing Ogar, acknowledged the transformative power of the tourism and hospitality sectors. He stated that these industries are crucial drivers of economic growth, reducing unemployment and empowering underserved communities, particularly youth and women. Obi praised China’s integration of tourism and cultural heritage into its economic framework, suggesting it as a model for Nigeria. He concluded, “This seminar provides a timely platform to exchange ideas and foster partnerships that will benefit both nations.”