Strengthening tourism and cultural ties between Nigeria and Jamaica

The Honourable Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, warmly welcomed a courtesy visit from the Jamaican High Commissioner, H.E. Lincoln G. Downer, and Andre O. Hibbert, Head of Chancery/Counsellor, at her office in Abuja. The meeting aimed to enhance tourism and cultural cooperation between Nigeria and Jamaica, focusing on new avenues for collaboration.

Nigeria and Jamaica strengthen tourism and cultural ties. Photo: @FMINONigeria

During the productive discussions, The Honourable Minister Lola Ade-John and the Jamaican delegation explored various opportunities in community tourism, wellness, and leisure tourism. They emphasized the potential of coastal tourism as a key area for joint initiatives, highlighting Nigeria and Jamaica's rich coastal offerings.

H.E. Lincoln G. Downer shared insights into Jamaica's impressive tourism sector recovery post-COVID-19, with over 4,000 visitors last year, inspiring Nigeria's tourism strategies. The Honourable Minister Lola Ade-John expressed enthusiasm about leveraging existing university partnerships to bolster tourism initiatives further.

Both parties acknowledged the cultural affinities between Nigeria and Jamaica, particularly in gastronomy, music, fashion, and film. The Honourable Minister Lola Ade-John underscored the need for collaborative efforts to enhance the film industry and promote cultural exchanges.

The Honourable Minister Lola Ade-John reiterated the Nigerian government's commitment to involving youth and women in the creative space, aligning with President Tinubu vision. They discussed plans to showcase Nigerian weddings and involve Jamaican cultural icons in cultural exchange programs.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to establish a collaborative committee focusing on aviation and cultural exchanges to streamline visa processes and enhance bilateral relations.

Chindaya Ahmadu, 

Director of Press, Ministry of Tourism/Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy