Over 40 Nigerians Graduate From Chinese Language Programme

Over 40 Nigerians have graduated from the 2026 Chinese Language Programme Phase 1, which underscores the flourishing cultural exchange that deepens bilateral ties between Nigerian and the People’s Republic of China.

It was a colourful graduation ceremony, held at the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, at the weekend which coincided with the programme tagged the “Journey to China – Northeast China Cultural Salon,” and it was a gathering of students, teachers and diplomats to celebrate the participants’ completion of the first phase of the language training.

Counsellor of the China Cultural Centre, Yang Jianxing, during the event described the Chinese language as a gateway to understanding one of the world’s oldest civilisations, adding that it was an opportunity to unlock the potential China-Nigeria relations.

“Chinese language is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, carrying the genetic link of 5,000 years of Chinese civilisation,” Yang said, stressing that the language embodies China’s cultural heritage and serves as “a common cultural treasure of all humankind.”

He noted that Chinese is one of the six official languages of the United Nations and has gained global prominence, with more than 190 countries and regions teaching it and over 200 million learners worldwide.

Yang commended the students saying, “You, our dear students, our treasure, our friends, you are an important part of this Chinese language society,” even as he lauded instructors for their efforts.

“China will further promote high quality economic and social development, strengthen cultural exchanges and cooperation with other countries, including our dear friends, Nigeria, and share development opportunities with them,” he said.

According to him, mastering the Chinese language offers Nigerians a strategic advantage in engaging with China across sectors. “Learning Chinese is undoubtedly a crucial shortcut to gaining a comprehensive understanding of China and realising one’s dreams through participation in mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Nigeria,” Yang added.

The cultural salon segment of the event focused on Northeast China, a region Yang described as rich in agriculture, culture and tourism potential. “Zhongguo Dongbei boasts numerous ethnic groups, warm and welcoming people, beautiful scenery, and delicious cuisine,” he said, encouraging participants to explore the region.

“I hope that more and more Nigerian friends will learn Chinese language, understand China further, and enhance exchanges, so that we can work together to elevate the China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership to a new level,” he said.

One of the graduates, Blessing Ikenna Ihiana, who spoke to reporters described her experience in the programme as challenging but ultimately rewarding, highlighting the depth of cultural immersion required to master the language.

Reflecting on her journey, Ihiana said learning Chinese initially appeared daunting. “The journey has not been too easy. When I first started, I thought Chinese was very difficult, but with my teachers, I found out that learning Chinese is very interesting,” she said.

She explained that beyond vocabulary and pronunciation, understanding Chinese culture is essential to grasping the language. “You can’t learn the language without knowing about the culture, and it’s been a very great journey,” she added.

Ihiana, who has attained the HSK3 level— the highest currently offered at the centre — said she intends to advance further as more levels become available. “For now, we are the highest level here, but we plan to go to higher levels,” she noted.