Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Nigeria and China are exploring new partnerships to develop tea-based creative enterprises, expand agro-processing opportunities and strengthen cultural cooperation between both countries.
The discussions take place on Wednesday during the Maritime Silk Road Impressions cultural event in Abuja organised around intangible cultural heritage from Ancient Zayton Port.
Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Abdulkarim Ibrahim, says Nigeria’s growing tea culture presents opportunities for tourism and the creative economy.
“The popularity of tea in Nigerian homes and markets speaks to its role as a refined social lubricant,” Ibrahim says.
He explains that the ministry is supporting tea-related festivals, cultural hubs and local adaptations capable of expanding Nigeria’s participation in the global tea economy.
Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Centre, Zhou Hongyou, describes tea as a bridge for dialogue and mutual learning between civilisations.
According to Zhou, China’s recently introduced zero-tariff measures for 53 African countries will improve access for Nigerian agricultural exports including sesame, cocoa, cassava and peanuts.
“I truly believe that more high-quality Nigerian agricultural products will benefit from this zero-tariff policy,” he says.
The event features tea ceremonies, ceramics, incense culture and guqin performances aimed at strengthening people-to-people exchanges between both countries.
Officials say the partnership aligns with broader efforts to deepen bilateral trade, cultural diplomacy and creative industry collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
Korede Abdullah 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 