China is set to collaborate with Nigeria to strengthen the country’s music industry, tourism, and creative sectors.
Speaking during a meeting with Hannatu Musawa, minister of art, culture, and creative economy, on Tuesday, He Yu Dunhai, Chinese ambassador, expressed the Asian country’s interest in expanding the reach of Nigerian music in the Chinese market.
He said beyond music, partnerships in training, capacity building, and programs would help grow Nigeria’s tourism sector and benefit both nations economically.
He said strengthening ties between both nations would drive growth, innovation, and collaboration in the creative sector.
“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,” he said.
“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”.
Musawa welcomed China’s interest in partnering with Nigeria, saying it would strengthen the economy and promote cultural exchange.
She said the ministry would also prioritise infrastructure and revamp key tourist sites.
“‘I am delighted to welcome China’s interest in partnering with Nigeria to develop our tourism and creative sectors,” she said.
“This partnership will not only boost our economy but also foster cultural exchange and understanding between our nations.
“The ministry will prioritise infrastructural development and will sustain its policy drive towards revamping tourism sites in the country such as Yankari Game Reserve, Obudu Ranch Resorts, Tinapa, Evin-Ijesha Water Fountain, amongst 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.”
Nigeria and China also discussed partnering on technology development, including animation, incubation programs for young creatives, and easier visa access for tourism and creative industry professionals.
