Nigerians have been encouraged to take up the Chinese language by the People’s Republic of China, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and the Nigeria Union of Journalists, who called it a key asset for international relations, economic advancement, and cultural interaction.
The appeal was made on Monday in Abuja during the commemoration of International Chinese Language Day.
Addressing participants, Cultural Counselor at the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, said Chinese serves as a powerful link between societies, traditions, and economies worldwide.
He referred to the language as a “genetic link” that embodies more than 5,000 years of Chinese heritage, describing it as part of humanity’s common legacy. He stated that Chinese stands as both a “gift across time” and a “golden bridge” that unites people and promotes mutual respect.
Yang pointed out that Chinese language instruction has grown internationally, now available in over 190 countries and regions with upwards of 200 million students. He said fundamental Chinese values like “the world belongs to all” and “do not do to others what you would not have them do to you” align closely with Nigerian ideals of harmony and community life.
He emphasized that acquiring Chinese equips Nigerians to gain deeper insight into China and engage in productive partnerships with the country.
“Learning Chinese is undoubtedly an important shortcut to fully understanding China and realizing one’s dreams through cooperation in various sectors,” he said.
Speaking as well, Director of News Suleiman Musa, who represented the Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, described Chinese as one of the most lasting cultural legacies of mankind.
He underscored the increasing relevance of language in diplomacy, commerce, media collaboration, and worldwide communication. Musa explained that the “Ni Hao China” initiative emerged from agreements reached during Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to China in September 2024, designed to deepen trade, tourism, and bilateral dialogue.
He noted that the Chinese language is continually opening fresh avenues for narrative sharing, knowledge transfer, and cross-border cooperation.
In her comments, NUJ FCT Council Chairman Grace Ike stressed language’s role in building solidarity and mutual comprehension among countries. She said the gathering demonstrates the robust ties between Nigeria and China, anchored on common ambitions for progress, innovation, and prosperity.
“This event underscores the power of language as a bridge for cultures, fostering deeper understanding between Nigeria and China, two great nations bound by shared aspirations,” she said.
