The People’s Republic of China, the Nigerian government, and the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) have urged Nigerians to use the Chinese language, which is one of six world languages acknowledged by the United Nations.
Mr Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of CCCIN, declared this at the International Chinese Language Day in Abuja on Monday.
China believes that this language will help to overcome cultural gaps while also advancing commercial ideas and adventures.
He stated that the Chinese language is the genetic link that holds the flame of 5,000 years of Chinese civilisation.
According to him, the Chinese language is a common treasure of humanity, and in today’s world, it is more than just 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 stated.
“When we read renowned Chinese philosophical notions like ‘the world belongs to everybody’ and ‘do not do to others what you would not have them do to you,’ we sense a resonance that crosses civilisations.
“These principles resonate strongly with Nigerian culture, which likewise values harmony.
“China will continue to 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 undeniably a significant shortcut to completely knowing China and realising one’s aspirations by participating in mutually beneficial interaction between China and Nigeria in a variety of areas.
“We believe that the ‘International Chinese Language Day’ event will allow everyone to experience the Chinese language’s unique charm and modern vibrancy.
“We hope that more and more Nigerian friends will learn Chinese, understand China, and enhance exchanges.”
The Director General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), represented by the Director of News, Mr Suleiman Musa, stated that the Chinese language is one of humanity’s most lasting 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 overemphasised,” he stated.
“The Ni Hao China project is one of the benefits of the accords reached between Nigeria and China during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s State Visit to China in September 2024, which aim to improve trade, tourism, and communication between the two countries.
The Chinese language promotes storytelling, knowledge exchange, and international understanding.
Grace Ike, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, FCT Council, also spoke about the importance of the Chinese language in Nigeria today.
“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 stated.