Chinese Language Key to Jobs, Trade, Global Opportunities – FG, NUJ, China By Raymond Enoch
The Federal Government, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the People’s Republic of China have urged Nigerians to embrace the Chinese language, describing it as a gateway to employment, trade, and global opportunities.
The call was made on Monday in Abuja during the celebration of International Chinese Language Day, where stakeholders highlighted the growing importance of language in strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties.
Speaking at the event, Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, described the Chinese language as a powerful tool for connecting people, cultures, and economies across the world.
He referred to the language as a “genetic link” that embodies over 5,000 years of Chinese civilization, noting that it serves as a shared heritage of humanity. According to him, Chinese is both a “gift across time” and a “golden bridge” that promotes mutual understanding among nations.
Yang disclosed that Chinese language education has spread to more than 190 countries and regions, with over 200 million learners globally. He added that key Chinese philosophical values such as harmony and mutual respect align closely with Nigerian cultural ideals.
He emphasized that learning the language would enable Nigerians to better understand China and take advantage of expanding bilateral cooperation.
“Learning Chinese is undoubtedly an important shortcut to fully understanding China and realizing 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 the Director of News, Suleiman Musa, described the Chinese language as one of the world’s most enduring cultural treasures.
He highlighted its growing relevance in diplomacy, trade, media exchange, and global communication, noting that the “Ni Hao China” programme was initiated following agreements reached during the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to China in September 2024.
Musa explained that the initiative aims to boost trade, tourism, and communication between both countries, while creating new opportunities for storytelling and international collaboration.
In her remarks, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike, said language remains a vital tool for strengthening unity and cooperation among nations.
She noted that the event reflects the deepening relationship between Nigeria and China, driven by shared goals of progress and innovation.
“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,” she said.
