Chinese Envoy Calls for Wider Mandarin Language Education in Nigerian Schools

The Consul-General of China in Lagos, Yan Yuqing, has called for the expansion of Mandarin language teaching in Nigerian schools, saying greater language and cultural exchange would strengthen educational ties and create more opportunities for young Nigerians. Yuqing made the call during a visit to Grace Schools in Lagos, where she interacted with pupils enrolled in the school's Mandarin language programme. Grace Schools introduced Mandarin into its curriculum 16 years ago as part of its foreign language education. The envoy noted that China already supports Mandarin education in Nigeria through the Confucius Institute at the University of Lagos and Chinese language programmes in selected primary and secondary schools. She praised the students for their enthusiasm and proficiency in the language, expressing hope that more Nigerians would study, work, and build careers in China. According to Yuqing, education and cultural cooperation will remain central to relations between China and African countries, especially as 2026 has been designated the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchange. She added that the Chinese government would continue to provide scholarships, teacher training, student exchange programmes, and other educational initiatives to deepen bilateral cooperation. The diplomat also highlighted ongoing collaboration between Lagos and Chinese provinces through sister-city partnerships, as well as China's support for development projects in Nigeria, including healthcare, food assistance, and infrastructure. Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Grace Schools, Olatokunbo Edun, said the school introduced Mandarin in 2010 after recognising China's growing influence in global trade and the increasing demand for multilingual professionals. She explained that the language is taught from Nursery Two through Senior Secondary School II, enabling many students to read, write, and communicate fluently in Mandarin. According to her, language proficiency gives students an advantage in the global job market and prepares them for international careers. Edun also revealed that one of the school's pupils achieved HSK Level 3, an internationally recognised Chinese language proficiency certification, at the age of six. She added that the programme is supported through a partnership with the Confucius Institute at the University of Lagos, which provides teacher training and instructional support. The Chairman of the school's Parents-Teachers Association, Omoruyi Edoigiawerei, described the initiative as a valuable investment in the future of Nigerian children, saying it would better position them for opportunities in international business, education, and diplomacy.