The Federal Government has thrown its weight behind the promotion of Chinese language learning across Nigeria, describing it as a vital tool for strengthening diplomatic relations, enhancing trade, and deepening cultural ties between Nigeria and China.
This was disclosed on Friday in Abuja by Mrs Larai Ahmed, Director of Education Support Services at the Federal Ministry of Education, during the celebration of International Chinese Language Day.
Ahmed said the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader goal of expanding international cooperation, especially with China, a key global partner. She noted that language remains a powerful bridge for fostering mutual understanding, global competitiveness, and development.
“Language is a tool of diplomacy and connection. Promoting Chinese language education in Nigeria will open doors to economic, educational, and cultural partnerships,” she said.
Ahmed revealed that the Ministry of Education is planning to introduce Chinese language programmes in select secondary schools and universities across the country. She said this move would help equip Nigerian students with the necessary skills to thrive in a more globalised and competitive world.
According to her, over 1.3 billion people speak Chinese globally, making it the most widely spoken language in the world. She added that Nigerian youths could benefit immensely from being able to communicate with one of the world’s largest economies.
“Proficiency in the Chinese language will not only strengthen our international relations but also provide our people with opportunities for education, employment, and trade,” Ahmed said.
She explained that many Nigerian scholars had already benefited from the Bilateral Educational Agreement signed with China, which allows them to study in Chinese universities and immerse themselves in Chinese culture and technology.
Ahmed also praised the role of the China Cultural Centre in Abuja, which she described as a hub for Chinese language instruction and cultural exchange. Established in 2013, the centre has since offered various training programmes and cultural events to promote understanding between the two countries.
“The China Cultural Centre has played a critical role in advancing Chinese language education in Nigeria. We are proud of this partnership,” she said.
The Federal Government’s support, she added, would ensure that more learning centres are established in other parts of the country to give more Nigerians access to Chinese education resources.
Speaking at the event, Mr Liu Zhanping, Deputy Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, appreciated the Nigerian government’s backing and reaffirmed China’s readiness to continue supporting Nigeria in the area of education and cultural exchange.
Liu highlighted the benefits of language learning in creating mutual understanding between nations and communities.
“Language is not just a communication tool; it reflects a people’s history, values, and identity. The Chinese language offers a unique window into one of the oldest civilisations in the world,” he said.
He noted that since the centre was established, hundreds of Nigerians—especially in the Federal Capital Territory have enrolled in Chinese language classes and cultural programmes.
Liu also praised Nigeria’s rich linguistic heritage, pointing out that languages such as Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba are globally recognised. He encouraged efforts to preserve these local languages while promoting bilingual education.
“Just as we promote Chinese language learning, we also value Nigeria’s cultural and linguistic diversity. Preserving your native languages is as important as learning new ones,” Liu added.
Nigeria and China share strong bilateral relations, particularly in areas of trade, infrastructure development, education, and technology transfer. China is currently one of Nigeria’s biggest trade partners, and learning Chinese is seen as a strategic move to enhance communication and business efficiency.
In recent years, China has supported Nigeria in various sectors through grants, educational exchange programmes, and technical assistance. Many Nigerians have benefited from scholarships to study engineering, medicine, and technology in China.
The Chinese government has also funded the construction of several projects in Nigeria, including railways, roads, and energy infrastructure, under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Experts say that deeper cultural exchange will further enhance mutual trust and cooperation.
The Chinese language initiative is expected to be rolled out gradually, beginning with pilot programmes in federal government schools and selected universities. The Ministry of Education is also working with Chinese partners to develop training materials and provide teachers to support the rollout.
The event in Abuja ended with cultural performances by students learning Chinese, who demonstrated their language skills through music, drama, and poetry. Both Nigerian and Chinese officials expressed optimism about the growing partnership between the two countries.
As Nigeria looks to deepen international cooperation and equip its youth with global skills, the promotion of Chinese language learning is seen as a step in the right direction.
“This initiative will give our youth a better chance at global opportunities. It is about preparing them for the future,” Ahmed said.
