The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria commemorated the 2025 International Chinese Language Day with a vibrant event at the China Cultural Center in Abuja on Friday.
The celebration brought together distinguished guests, including Liu Zhanping, Deputy Director of the China Cultural Center, Larai Nana Ahmed, Director of the Education Support Services Department at the Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Muhammed Sani Ladan, Director/Secretary of the FCT Secondary Education Board, as well as teachers, students from China Corner Schools and representatives from Chinese-funded enterprises.
In his address, Liu Zhanping said the International Chinese Language Day is a global celebration for Chinese language enthusiasts, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
“In Nigeria, the growing interest in Chinese language learning reflects its global appeal and our shared commitment to multicultural dialogue,” he said.
“Since its establishment, the China Cultural Center in Nigeria has dedicated itself to advancing Chinese education and cultural exchange. We offer diverse courses tailored to all proficiency levels, ages, and professions.”
He added that the embassy remains committed to advancing Chinese education and cultural exchange initiatives in Nigeria, and is willing to work together with the Nigerian side to take practical measures to promote mutual learning between civilizations, deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and write a new chapter in China-Nigeria friendship.
In her remarks, Larai Nana Ahmed, Director of Education Support Service Deparment of the federal ministry of education, said the Nigerian government has encouraged the learning of Chinese language as a unique window to the cultural heritage of China, fostering cross cultural understading and cooperation. She noted that proficiency in Chinese language is enhancing new open doors especially in trade and investment.
The Director stated that the bilateral education agreement between China and Nigeria has exposed several Nigerian scholars to the study of the Chinese language.
“The Nigerian education sector will continue to strengthen the partnership with Chinese educational institution to enhance the learning of Chinese language and exchange programs.
“The ministry of education is dedicated to promoting linguistic diversity and cultural exchange as we acknowledge the value of Chinese language in enriching our students experience and preparing them for an increasing globalized world.”
The event featured engaging cultural activities, interactive experiences, and captivating performances by students from China Corner Schools, as well as Nigerian and Chinese musical groups.
Spoken by over 1.3 billion people as their first language, Chinese is the world’s most widely spoken native language and is increasingly vital in global communication.
