In a landmark move aimed at strengthening cultural and educational ties with China, the Federal Government has approved the inclusion of the Chinese language, Mandarin, as one of the foreign languages to be taught in senior secondary schools across the country. The announcement came during the inauguration of the 14th “Chinese Corner” at Government Secondary School, Tudun Wada, Abuja.
Education Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, disclosed the development, noting that the FCT had already introduced Mandarin into its schools ahead of the new curriculum review. According to him, the early adoption reflects foresight and vision, given the growing global relevance of the language.
“Chinese Mandarin has the largest number of speakers in the world and has become the language of commerce, education, and tourism,” Hayyo explained. “Our decision to embrace Chinese education and culture is a wise move that will benefit our students in the long run.”
The “Chinese Corner” initiative, first launched 12 years ago, was established through collaboration between the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and the FCT Secondary Education Board. With the new centre at GSS Tudun Wada, there are now 14 such hubs spread across Abuja. Hayyo noted that these centres have enhanced cultural exchange, opened opportunities for Nigerian students to pursue education in China, and provided platforms for mutual understanding between both countries.
Speaking on behalf of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, Hayyo commended the Chinese government and its embassy for sustained support. He described the partnership as one that has strengthened people-to-people relations. Quoting a Chinese proverb, he said, “A bosom friend brings distant lands near,” emphasizing the growing bond between Nigeria and China.
Chinese Counselor Yang Jianxing, who attended the event, said the initiative has become more than just a classroom setting. According to him, the “Chinese Corners” are now a cultural bridge and a popular learning hub for teachers and students alike. “For young people, it is not only an immersive classroom for language and culture but also a window to observe the world,” Jianxing remarked.
He further pledged continued support for Nigeria-China cooperation in areas such as education, culture, and youth development, stressing that the establishment of the 14th centre marks “a new starting point” in cultural exchange rather than an end.
The centres, supported by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) as part of its corporate social responsibility, are seen as pivotal in strengthening bilateral relations between both nations. Education stakeholders believe that the inclusion of Mandarin in the national curriculum signals Nigeria’s readiness to prepare students for global opportunities in education, business, and diplomacy.
