Nigeria joined the global community on Monday to commemorate the 2026 International Chinese Language Day, with stakeholders highlighting the role of language in strengthening cultural ties, diplomacy, and economic cooperation between Nigeria and China.
Speaking at the event held at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja, Mr Yang Jianxing, Director, China Cultural Centre, welcomed guests and described the Chinese language as a vital link to over 5,000 years of civilisation.
His address noted that Chinese characters embody historical memory, cultural identity, and intellectual heritage, evolving from ancient scripts to modern usage.
The message also underscored the growing global relevance of the language, pointing out that Chinese is one of the official languages of the United Nations and is currently taught in more than 190 countries, with over 200 million learners worldwide. According to him Embassy, the language serves as a bridge for communication, cultural harmony, and shared aspirations.
The event, which coincided with the traditional Chinese “Grain Rain” solar term, also highlighted philosophical values embedded in the language, including harmony, mutual respect, and coexistence—principles said to resonate strongly with Nigerian cultural values.
He further linked language learning to broader development goals, referencing China’s newly adopted 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), which prioritises economic growth and international cooperation. He encouraged participants to explore opportunities in education, trade, and cultural exchange through Chinese language acquisition.
In a goodwill message, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, described the celebration as a reflection of the power of language to connect people and deepen international understanding. She commended the Chinese Embassy and the China Cultural Centre for fostering a cordial relationship with Nigerian journalists, noting that such collaboration has enhanced balanced reporting and cultural exchange.
Grace Ike also urged media professionals to continue promoting narratives that strengthen Nigeria-China relations and highlight shared development goals.
Similarly, the Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Dr Mohammed Bulama, described language as a critical tool for communication, diplomacy, and global unity. He noted that Chinese remains one of the world’s most enduring cultural treasures, contributing significantly to global civilisation through its rich literary and philosophical heritage.
Dr Bulama reaffirmed FRCN’s commitment to linguistic diversity, stating that the corporation currently broadcasts in over 25 languages to reach diverse audiences. He also highlighted the launch of Ni Hao China, a weekly programme introduced in July 2025 in partnership with the Chinese Embassy, aimed at teaching Mandarin and promoting Chinese culture.
According to him, the initiative aligns with bilateral agreements reached during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to China in 2024, focused on enhancing trade, tourism, and communication.
The event also marked the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China, with participants expressing optimism that continued cultural and linguistic exchanges would deepen cooperation and deliver mutual benefits for both countries.
Organisers say the celebration serves as a platform to promote cultural diplomacy, encourage language learning, and strengthen people-to-people connections between Nigeria and China.