Nigeria is looking to China for practical ways to grow its tourism sector.
Speaking at a seminar organised by the Chinese Embassy in Abuja, Dr Ola Awakan of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority said China’s success in becoming a top global tourism destination holds useful lessons. He pointed to strong planning, infrastructure investment, branding, digital tools, skills development, and public-private partnerships as key areas Nigeria could adapt to its own setting.
Dr Abisoye Fagade of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism said the timing is right, as Nigeria pushes economic diversification under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He stressed the need to adapt China’s experience rather than copy it directly, turning lessons into local jobs, investment, and stronger institutions.
Counsellor Yang Jianxing of the Chinese Embassy noted both countries have rich cultures and tourism assets. He said China is ready to deepen cooperation in training, eco-tourism, cultural preservation, digital tourism, and marketing to support mutual growth.
