By Sarafina Christopher
The Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Mr Yang Jianxing, on Monday said learning the Chinese language would open up economic, educational and cultural opportunities for Nigerians amid growing bilateral relations.
Yang, who is also Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, said this at the 2026 International Chinese Language Day celebration in Abuja.
He described the Chinese language as a bridge for communication, harmony and aspirations, noting that it had become a global tool for connecting people and nations.
According to him, more than 190 countries and regions now teach the Chinese language, with over 200 million international learners and users worldwide.
Yang said that mastering the language would enable Nigerians to better understand China and participate more actively in bilateral cooperation across various sectors.
“Learning Chinese is undoubtedly an important shortcut to fully understanding China and realising one’s dreams through participation in mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Nigeria,” he said.
He added that Chinese civilisation, spanning over 5,000 years, was deeply reflected in its language and writing system, which preserved the country’s history, philosophy and wisdom.
Yang noted that 2026 marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria, as well as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
He expressed hope that more Nigerians would learn the language, understand China better and strengthen exchanges between the two countries.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Dr Mohammed Bulama, described language as a powerful tool for diplomacy, trade and cultural understanding.
Bulama said the corporation remained committed to promoting intercultural dialogue and international cooperation through broadcasting.
He recalled that FRCN, in partnership with the Chinese Embassy, launched “Ni Hao China”, a weekly radio programme, in July 2025 to teach Mandarin and promote Chinese culture.
In her remarks, Grace Ike, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, said the celebration underscored the role of communication in strengthening ties between Nigeria and China.
Ike commended the Chinese Embassy for sustaining cordial relations with journalists in the Federal Capital Territory.
She said the collaboration had enhanced balanced reporting, cultural exchange and mutual understanding between both countries.
NAN reports that the highlight of the event is the cultural performances from both sides. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Emmanuel Afonne
