By Favour Ulebor, Abuja

The Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria (CCCIN), Yang Jianxing, has encouraged Nigerians to learn Mandarin, saying it can expand access to international opportunities and strengthen ties between Nigeria and China.

He made the remarks on Monday in Abuja during the 2026 International Chinese Language Day celebration, noting that the language plays a key role in promoting trade, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding between both countries.

Jianxing explained that Chinese is one of the six official languages of the United Nations and is now taught in more than 190 countries and regions. He also noted that over 200 million people worldwide are currently learning or using the language.

He described Chinese as both a bridge of communication and a bridge of harmony, saying it allows people to better understand China’s culture, history, and development while fostering global cooperation.

He further stated that learning Chinese offers Nigerians a practical pathway to deeper engagement with China and participation in mutually beneficial partnerships across various sectors.

He added that the 2026 International Chinese Language Day was designed to help participants experience the cultural richness and modern relevance of the language, while encouraging more Nigerians to take interest in it.

Also speaking, the Director General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Dr Bulama Mohammed Babagana, represented by the Director, Office of the Director General, Suleiman Musa, said the corporation has incorporated Chinese language programming into its content since last year in line with bilateral agreements between Nigeria and China.

He noted that the initiative reflects efforts to promote cultural understanding, trade, tourism, and communication between both countries following agreements reached during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to China in September 2024.