China has urged Nigerian youths to embrace language learning and cultural exchange programmes as a pathway to expanding global opportunities and strengthening bilateral ties, as students from Nnamdi Azikiwe University emerged top performers in this year’s Chinese Bridge language competitions.
The call was made during the 19th Nigeria Division of the Chinese Bridge Chinese Proficiency Competition for Secondary School Students and the Inter-University Chinese Language Competition held at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja.
The event, which attracted students, diplomats, educators, and cultural stakeholders from across the country, formed part of activities marking the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China, as well as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
Representing the Chinese Embassy and the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing described the competition as a vital platform for promoting mutual understanding between both nations and encouraged participants to remain committed to language and cultural studies.
He noted that the decision by young Nigerians to learn Mandarin reflects courage, determination, and a readiness to engage with the global community.
According to him, language remains a powerful tool for bridging cultural divides and fostering deeper connections among people, adding that the competition continues to strengthen friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and China.
Yang also commended the Confucius Institutes at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and the University of Lagos for their contributions to the advancement of Chinese language education in Nigeria, noting that their efforts have significantly boosted the popularity of Mandarin among Nigerian students.
Speaking on the theme of the inter-university contest, “One World, One Family,” he said it reflects a shared vision of harmony, cooperation, and mutual understanding among nations.
He told contestants that beyond acquiring language skills, they were contributing to the sustenance of the longstanding Nigeria-China relationship while positioning themselves as future ambassadors of cultural exchange.
Students from the Confucius Institute at Nnamdi Azikiwe University dominated both categories of the competition.
In the secondary school category, Micheal Uchechi Justina emerged overall winner with 95.2 points. Umezurike Favour Chinaetugo placed second with 90.6 points, while Okoye Chikadibia Faith came third with 72.6 points.
The university category also saw Nnamdi Azikiwe University students clinch the top three positions. Emmanuel Faith Mba Orjiugo secured first place with 94 points, followed by Onyeocha Cecilea Ugochi with 82.7 points, and Okeke Jessica Chinemerem with 79.9 points.
Permanent Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Education Secretariat, Joy Okeke, described the event as a reflection of the enduring educational partnership between Nigeria and China.
She said the competition underscores the commitment of both countries to promoting educational and cultural cooperation for mutual growth and development.
In her virtual remarks, Director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Lagos, Professor Wushuang, noted that the Chinese Bridge programme goes beyond language proficiency, offering young people opportunities for personal development, confidence-building, and international exposure.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Mohamed Bulama, said the growing interest in Mandarin among Nigerian students mirrors the expanding relationship between Nigeria and China in areas such as diplomacy, trade, education, and culture.
He called for deeper collaboration to expand Chinese language education in Nigerian tertiary institutions, noting that Radio Nigeria has partnered with the Chinese Embassy and the China Cultural Centre to promote Mandarin learning through the “Ni Hao China” language programme.
President of the Society of Nigerian Artists, Muhammad Suleiman, described the event as a celebration of cultural diversity and shared understanding, adding that it showcased the rich cultural heritage of both nations while strengthening people-to-people connections.
Organisers noted that the annual Chinese Bridge competition continues to serve as a gateway for Nigerian students to develop Chinese language skills, explore scholarship opportunities, and participate in international academic and cultural exchanges.