Odita Sunday 
By Odita Sunday
The People’s Republic of China, the Nigerian government and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) have urged Nigerians to embrace the Chinese language, describing it as a strategic tool for global engagement, economic growth and cultural exchange.
The call was made at the International Chinese Language Day celebration held in Abuja on Monday.
Speaking at the event, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, said the Chinese language plays a critical role in connecting people, cultures and economies worldwide.
He described the language as a “genetic link” that carries over 5,000 years of Chinese civilisation and noted that it represents a shared heritage of humanity.
According to him, Chinese is not only a “gift across time” but also a “golden bridge” that fosters mutual understanding among nations.
Yang disclosed that Chinese language education has expanded globally, with more than 190 countries and regions offering programmes and over 200 million learners worldwide.
He added that core Chinese philosophical ideas such as “the world belongs to all” and “do not do to others what you would not have them do to you” align with Nigerian values of harmony and communal living.
“Learning Chinese is undoubtedly an important shortcut to fully understanding China and realising one’s dreams through cooperation in various sectors,” he said.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), represented by Director of News, Suleiman Musa, described the Chinese language as one of humanity’s most enduring cultural treasures.
He emphasised its growing relevance in diplomacy, trade, media exchange and global communication.
Musa said the “Ni Hao China” programme emerged from agreements reached during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to China in September 2024, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
In her remarks, Chairman of NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike, said language remains a vital instrument for unity and international understanding.
“This event underscores the power of language as a bridge for cultures, fostering deeper understanding between Nigeria and China,” she said.
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