Nigeria-China Festival Showcases Food Tourism Potential

The Nigeria-China Food Festival was held at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja, where the Federal Government of Nigeria underscored the food and beverage sector as the largest sub-sector of the country's tourism economy. Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, represented by Permanent Secretary Abdulkarim Ibrahim, stated that culinary experiences significantly motivate domestic travel, reinforcing the ministry's commitment to promoting Nigerian cuisine.

Musawa urged for enhanced cooperation in gastronomy, tourism, and cultural exchange between Nigeria and China, celebrating 55 years of friendship. Zhou Hongyou, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Chinese Embassy, noted that food could foster cultural understanding, highlighting the rich culinary traditions of both nations.

The event featured cultural performances and showcased various food traditions. Zhou also mentioned that China imported $2.3 billion worth of goods from Nigeria in the first half of 2026, marking an 80% increase from the previous year, with bilateral trade reaching $18 billion, a 35% year-on-year increase.