The Chinese government has expressed its readiness to deepen cultural ties with Nigeria through education and cultural exchange programmes.
This commitment was made during the celebration of International Chinese Language Day in Abuja, where Liu Zhanping, Deputy Director of the Chinese Cultural Centre in Nigeria, said China is eager to partner with the Nigerian government to implement practical initiatives that will promote mutual understanding and learning.
Zhanping described the event as a global celebration for lovers of the Chinese language and culture. He said it also reflects China’s broader mission to foster cross-cultural dialogue through language.
Speaking at the event, the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Mrs. Akudo Nwosu, applauded the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, for his efforts in strengthening the diplomatic and cultural relationship between both nations.
Mrs. Nwosu, who was represented by an assistant director in the ministry, Nseno S. Emiem, commended the Chinese Cultural Centre for actively promoting cultural exchange and language learning in Nigeria. She noted that both countries share a long-standing relationship based on mutual respect, economic cooperation and cultural appreciation.
“From the ancient trade routes that connected Africa and Asia to the Belt and Road Initiative, our countries have continued to grow and learn from each other,” she said. “Mandarin has become a bridge to China’s economic and technological achievements, while Nigeria’s over 500 indigenous languages hold the essence of our identity, heritage and creativity.”
She stressed that language is a key element of cultural diplomacy and urged stronger collaboration in areas such as education, film, music and literature to help Nigeria project its cultural identity globally. She also revealed that the ministry’s 2030 agenda aims to establish Nigeria as a top destination for arts, culture and tourism, using exchange programmes with countries like China to promote learning of Mandarin and Nigerian languages.
Mrs. Nwosu also encouraged Nigerians studying the Chinese language to remain committed to their learning journey, describing the Chinese community in Nigeria as important partners in national development.
On the education front, Larai Nana Ahmed, Director of Education Support Services at the Federal Ministry of Education, said the government plans to introduce Chinese language programmes in selected schools and universities. She said this will provide Nigerian students with opportunities to learn the language while creating room for collaboration with Chinese institutions.
She also gave assurance that the ministry will continue working with China to strengthen exchange programmes that support language education and teacher training.
The event reinforced both countries’ shared commitment to using language and culture as tools for closer bilateral ties and international cooperation.
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