Nigerian Railway Pioneer Gets ‘Friendship Envoy Award’ In China

A Nigerian female train driver, Issah Fatimah Abiola, has been honoured with the prestigious Friendship Envoy Award at the second Orchid Award Ceremony held in Beijing.

The award, hosted by the China Foreign Language Bureau, recognises international individuals and institutions that promote global cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

Abiola, widely known by her Chinese name Bai Yang, was recognised for her outstanding contributions to China-Nigeria cultural ties, having grown from an office assistant at China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) to Nigeria’s first female train driver and a national symbol of resilience and cross-cultural collaboration.

Established as a major international cultural award by China, the Orchid Award aligns with the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping. It celebrates those advancing common human values, intercultural dialogue, and the vision of a shared future for humanity.

Abiola’s journey with CCECC began in 2008, according to the construction firm. Driven by a desire to bridge communication gaps between Chinese and Nigerian colleagues, she taught herself Mandarin. Her efforts quickly elevated her role from administrative support to a critical liaison during the construction of the Abuja-Kaduna Railway and Abuja Metro project.

In 2013, she became the only woman selected for train driver training. After rigorous study and field practice, she made history on July 12, 2018, by driving Nigeria’s first passenger train operated by a woman. Since then, she has driven over 2,000 trips, safely transporting more than one million passengers.

Beyond the tracks, Abiola is said to have served as a cultural ambassador for Chinese projects in Nigeria, promoting Chinese engineering, culture, and bilateral goodwill through public outreach, educational programmes, and extensive media engagement. Her story has received global media coverage, becoming a model of people-to-people cooperation under China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

The Orchid Award is the latest recognition in a series of honours for Abiola, including the China-Nigeria Friendship Contribution Award from the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and commendations from former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari.

CCECC described Abiola’s story as a powerful testament to the long-standing friendship and cooperation between China and Nigeria. The company highlighted her role in mentoring a new generation of local female train drivers and her current work as a certified trainer, helping to transfer Chinese rail expertise to local personnel.

The company also noted that the Abuja Metro project, where Abiola is based, created nearly 5,000 jobs for Nigerians, with 98% local employment and a growing share of Nigerian leadership.

“This  Orchid award means a lot to me. It is not only a friendship award but also a symbol of recognition from both China and Nigeria. I feel valued, excited and honored,” Abiola stated, adding that “To every Nigerian woman dreaming of becoming a train driver—go for it! Don’t let stereotypes or societal limits hold you back. This profession, like many others, is not just for men. With determination, hard work, and the right training, you can excel in this field. Believe in yourself, break barriers, and inspire others.”

Her ongoing role in Chinese cultural events and technical training, both in Nigeria and China, underscores her dedication to deeper China-Africa collaboration. From language education to cultural performances and mentorship, Abiola is said to have inspired a new generation, embodying the ideals of partnership, resilience, and shared growth.

CCECC reaffirmed its commitment to “teaching people how to fish” in Africa through technology transfer, local talent development, and cultural integration. Abiola’s recognition, the company said, symbolises both her personal achievements and the broader success of people-centred cooperation under China-Africa relations.