The People’s Republic of China, the Nigerian government and the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ have called on Nigerians to take advantage of the Chinese language, being among the six international languages recognised by the United Nations, UN.
Mr Yang Jianxing, the Cultural Counselor of Chinese Embassy and Director of CCCIN, stated this at the International Chinese Language Day held in Abuja on Monday.
According to China, this language would build bridges between cultures and advance business ideas and adventures.
He noted that Chinese language is the genetic link that carries the torch of 5,000 years of Chinese civilization.
According to him, the Chinese language is a shared treasure of humankind, adding that in today’s world, Chinese is not only a “gift across time,” but also a “golden bridge” connecting people’s hearts.
“More than 190 countries and regions worldwide have implemented Chinese language teaching, with over 200 million international learners and users,” he said.
“When we read famous 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,’ we feel a resonance that transcends civilizations.
“These ideas resonate deeply with Nigerian culture, which also values harmony.
“China will further promote high-quality economic and social development, strengthen cultural exchanges and cooperation with other countries, and share development opportunities with the world.
“Learning Chinese is undoubtedly an important shortcut to fully understanding China and realizing one’s dreams through participation in mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Nigeria in various fields.
“We hope that this ‘International Chinese Language Day’ event will serve as an opportunity for everyone to experience the unique charm and contemporary vitality of the Chinese language.
“We hope that more and more Nigerian friends will learn Chinese, understand China, and enhance exchanges.”
Director General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, represented by by the Director of News, Mr Suleiman Musa, said the Chinese language stands as one of humanity’s most enduring cultural treasures, with its rich tapestry of characters and timeless expressions.
“In today’s interconnected world, the role of language as a tool for diplomacy, trade, media exchange, and cultural understanding cannot be overemphasized,” he said.
“The Ni Hao China programme is part of the benefits of the agreements signed between Nigeria and China, during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s State visit to China in September 2024, aimed at boosting trade, tourism, and communication between Nigeria and China.
The Chinese language continues to open new frontiers for storytelling, knowledge sharing, and mutual respect among
nations.
Also speaking, Grace Ike, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, FCT Council, harped on the importance of the Chinese language in present Nigeria.
“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 for progress, innovation, and mutual prosperity,” she said.
