Laraba MUREY
The Chinese government has expressed interest in opening its market to Nigerian music as part of a new cultural and tourism partnership between both countries.
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, HE Yu Dunhai, met with the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, in Abuja on Tuesday to discuss areas of collaboration that would boost Nigeria’s creative and tourism sectors.
Dunhai noted that China sees numerous untapped opportunities that would benefit both countries, particularly in training, capacity building, and tourism promotion.
“China would like to explore opportunities for cultural exchange, allowing Nigerian artists to tap into the Chinese market, where there is a growing demand for Nigerian music,” the ambassador said.
He also emphasized China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties in various sectors.
“We are committed to strengthening ties between our two nations in various areas of interest. I believe that this partnership will unlock new opportunities for growth, innovation, and cultural exchange, and I look forward to working together to make it a success.”
Discussions also covered possible collaborations in technology development, including animation, incubation programs for young creatives, and simplified visa processes for tourism and creative industry stakeholders.
In response, Musawa welcomed the partnership proposal, assuring China of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties and driving economic growth.
“I am delighted to welcome China’s interest in partnering with Nigeria to develop our tourism and creative sectors. This partnership will not only boost our economy but also foster cultural exchange and understanding between our nations,” she said.
She further highlighted the ministry’s focus on infrastructure development, stressing the importance of revamping key tourist sites across Nigeria.
“The ministry will prioritize infrastructural development and will sustain its policy drive towards revamping tourism sites in the country, such as Yankari Game Reserve, Obudu Ranch Resort, Tinapa, Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls, among others, taking a cue from beautiful and scenic tourist sites in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Mexico, and other parts of the world, most of which can be replicated in Nigeria.”
With Nigeria’s creative sector contributing 4% to the country’s economy and targeting $100 billion in investment, the partnership is expected to provide significant opportunities for Nigerian artists, tourism operators, and other stakeholders.
