I would like to appreciate Hon. Babajimi Benson for giving me the opportunity to explore, learn new things, gain more experience, meet new people from different countries and continents, and for more exposure. This was my first time traveling outside my jurisdiction to another country and continent, using air and railway transportation.

My journey began with a 5-hour flight from Murtala Muhammad Airport in Lagos, Nigeria to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and then an 11-12 hour flight from Ethiopia to Beijing, China. China is 7 hours ahead of Nigeria in terms of time zone. With a population of 1.4 billion, China is the second most populated country in the world after India, and it has a landmass that ranks third globally. Despite its large population, China has been able to provide job opportunities for its masses, ensuring that no one goes to bed hungry.

I attended a 2-week seminar on “International Communication Capacity on Belt and Road Initiatives” in China, which brought together participants from different countries and continents. Here are some key takeaways from my experience:

1. Road Infrastructure: China has a well-planned road network that links urban and rural areas, facilitating development and growth. The country has also constructed railway lines to connect cities, making transportation easy and affordable. For example, the journey from Beijing to Xi’an, which is over 1,200km, takes only 5 hours by train.
2. Electricity: China has a reliable electricity supply, with 24-hour lighting available. This has enabled businesses to thrive without worrying about power outages, making them more productive.
3. Culture: China is rich in culture, and its people cherish their heritage. I visited the Xi’an Film Studio, which was established in 1958 and has played a significant role in the development of Chinese cinema. I also visited the historical Xi’an Bell Tower and Drum Tower, which served as time-keeping hubs.
4. Technology: I was impressed by China’s use of AI and 5G advanced networks to deliver news in the media world. The use of green screen apps and robots reporting live on television were also notable. Some countries, such as Russia and Pakistan, shared their experiences on using technology to tackle fake news at the 2nd Television Festival of Shanghai Cooperation Organization Countries.
5. Accommodation and Hospitality: The Chinese people were accommodating and respectful towards us. The program organizers treated us well, ensuring our safety and comfort throughout our stay.
6. Communication: We used WeChat and Google translator to communicate effectively with the Chinese people. During the Television Festival, translators were available to interpret speeches into three major languages. The Alipay app was also used as a means of payment.
7. Agriculture: China’s agricultural sector is well-organized, with designated areas for farm settlements and industrial zones. The government provides support to farmers, enabling them to work efficiently and effectively. I also visited the Great Wall, a historical tourist center built in ancient times.

Overall, my experience in China was enriching, and I gained valuable insights into the country’s development and culture.