China, Nigeria Celebrate Language Of Harmony As World Commemorates Int’l Chinese Language Day.
By Ferdinand Olise
Nigeria has joined the rest of the world to commemorate the 17th and 2026 Chinese Language Day, as this year marks the fifty-fifth anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria and the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
Speaking in Abuja at the International Chinese Language Day with the theme: Chinese, Sparkling Colorful Dreams, the Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy, and Director of China Cultural Center in Nigeria, Mr Yang Jianxing, said China and Nigeria are strengthening their bilateral ties through sustained language exchange initiatives.
According to him, China will further promote high-quality economic and social development, strengthen cultural exchanges and co-operation with other countries, and share development opportunities with the world.
Mr Jianxing further explained that Chinese is the genetic link that carries the torch of five thousand years of Chinese civilization, noting that every Chinese character is not only a symbol of communication, but also a historical memory and a crystallization of wisdom.
According to him, learning Chinese is undoubtedly an important shortcut to fully understanding China and realising one’s dreams through participation in mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Nigeria in various fields.
“Chinese is the genetic link that carries the torch of 5,000 years of Chinese civilization. Every Chinese character is not only a symbol of communication but also a historical memory and a crystallisation of wisdom. From the ancient oracle bone script to the modern regular script, Chinese has vividly recorded the development of Chinese civilisation, showcasing the unique artistic charm and intellectual value of Chinese culture.
It is a shared treasure of humankind. In today’s world, Chinese is not only a “gift across time,” but also a “golden bridge” connecting people’s hearts.
“It is a bridge of communication. Chinese is one of the six official languages of the United Nations. To date, more than 190 countries and regions worldwide have implemented Chinese language teaching, with over 200 million international learners and users. More and more foreign friends are opening windows to understanding ancient and modern China by mastering Chinese.
“It is a bridge of harmony. For thousands of years, the Chinese nation has pursued the concept of “harmony and coexistence.” This wisdom is embodied in the strokes of Chinese characters and the elegant prose of the Four Books and Five Classics”, he said.
Mr Jianxing noted that this special day commemorates Cangjie, the legendary inventor of Chinese characters, and urged everyone to
experience together the unique charm of the Chinese language that transcends time and space while connecting the past and the future.
He said, “When we read famous Chinese philosophical ideas such as “the world belongs to all” and “do not do to others what you would not have them do to you,” we feel a resonance that transcends civilizations. These ideas resonate deeply with Nigerian culture, which also values harmony.
He also noted that the 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development of the People’s Republic of China (2026-2030), was adopted last month, reiterating China’s eagerness to promote high-quality economic and social development, strengthen cultural exchanges and cooperation with other countries.
He further stated that learning Chinese is undoubtedly an important shortcut to fully understanding China and realizing one’s dreams through participation in mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Nigeria in various fields.
“This year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria and the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. We hope that this “International Chinese Language Day” event will serve as an opportunity for everyone to experience the unique charm and contemporary vitality of the Chinese language.
“Let us work together to elevate the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Nigeria to a new level and jointly benefit the people of both countries”, he added.
In his goodwill message, the Director General, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Dr Mohammed Bulama, represented by the Director of Office of the Director General, Mr Suleiman Musa, said Chinese language stands as one of humanity’s most enduring cultural treasures, with its rich tapestry of characters and timeless expressions.
“It embodies centuries of wisdom, philosophy, innovation, and artistic brilliance that have shaped global civilization in remarkable ways.
In today’s interconnected world, the role of language as a tool for diplomacy, trade, media exchange, and cultural understanding cannot be overemphasized”, he said.
Also, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Grace Ike, said the event beautifully underscores the power of language as a bridge for cultures, fostering deeper understanding between Nigeria and China; two great nations bound by shared aspirations for progress, innovation, and mutual prosperity.
“As journalists, we witness daily how effective communication dissolves barriers, amplifies voices, and builds enduring partnerships. The Chinese language, with its rich heritage and global resonance, exemplifies this truth, enriching our multicultural tapestry and opening doors to collaborative opportunities in trade, education, technology, and beyond”, she said.
The event featured several cultural displays and performances by students from the China Cultural Center Nigeria.
