By Seun Ibiyemi
The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), in collaboration with the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, has hosted the 2026 Nigeria–China Food Festival in Abuja as part of activities marking 55 years of diplomatic relations between both countries.
The festival, held on August 27 at the China Cultural Centre, Abuja, was themed “From Farm to Feast” and brought together more than 200 participants, including hospitality professionals, chefs, tourism stakeholders, government officials, diplomats, entrepreneurs and cultural practitioners.
The event provided participants with an opportunity to explore the food traditions and cultural heritage of Nigeria and China while strengthening people-to-people relations between the two countries.
Guests were treated to 14 Chinese dishes representing seven regions of China and 12 Nigerian dishes drawn from the country’s six geopolitical zones.
The diverse selection showcased different ingredients, cooking techniques and local specialities from both countries, while highlighting the potential of food and culinary experiences to promote tourism.
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For NIHOTOUR, the festival also served as a platform to promote Nigerian cuisine as an important component of the country’s tourism offering and highlight businesses and professionals across the food and hospitality value chain.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NIHOTOUR, Aare Abisoye Fagade, reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to developing the skills required to strengthen Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry.
Fagade said initiatives such as the festival could create opportunities for young people, hospitality professionals and entrepreneurs while promoting Nigeria’s diverse culinary heritage.
The “From Farm to Feast” theme also highlighted the contribution of farmers, food producers, processors, chefs, hospitality operators and other businesses involved in bringing food from production to consumers.
The festival showcased the distinct culinary traditions of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, with NIHOTOUR emphasising the potential of local dishes and ingredients to become part of experiences offered to domestic and international tourists.
The Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria, Mr Zhou Hongyou, said food could play an important role in helping people understand different cultures and strengthening relations between Nigeria and China.
The Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Mr Yang Jianxing, also participated in the event, further underscoring the role of cultural exchange in deepening bilateral relations.
Beyond the culinary presentations, the festival created opportunities for cooperation in hospitality, tourism, culinary training, cultural exchange and enterprise development.
The event comes as Nigeria and China mark 55 years of diplomatic relations, with bilateral ties expanding over the years across various sectors.
NIHOTOUR said it would continue to pursue partnerships aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry, developing professional skills, supporting enterprises and creating opportunities across the tourism value chain.
