Ties
By Sarafina Christopher
Abuja, July 11, 2025 -The Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) on Thursday in Abuja inaugurated a new Mandarin-language programme titled “Ni Hao! China” to deepen cultural ties and communication between the two countries.
The Director-General of FRCN, Dr Mohammed Bulama, described the launch as a landmark moment for the country’s media landscape noting that the initiative is a first of its kind by a Nigerian media organisation.
He said that the programme aims to introduce Nigerians particularly youth to the Chinese language and culture.
“For the first time, a media organisation in Nigeria is introducing the teaching of the Mandarin language. We are blazing the trail.
“This is in recognition of the importance of China as a strategic partner.
“We are aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening our bilateral relationship with China,” he said.
Bulama also added that the programme, which will air on Radio Nigeria, is a stepping stone for future Mandarin broadcasts on Voice of Nigeria.
“We hope that the products of this training programme will someday become the pioneers of Mandarin broadcasting to China.
“We also hope that as time goes by instead of bringing people from China, Nigerians will be the ones running such programme,” he said.
He also added that the initiative builds on the 2024 Memorandum of Understanding on media exchange and cooperation signed by Nigeria’s Ministry of Information for NTA, and FRCN with Chinese partners.
On his part, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, praised the initiative as timely and essential, especially ahead of the 2026 Year of China-Africa People-to-People Exchanges.
“People-to-people exchange holds the key to state-to-state relations.
“This programme will offer Nigerians an opportunity to learn authentic Chinese language and immerse themselves in our culture, history, and social development,”he said.
Yu also highlighted the growing economic interdependence between the two nations, and stressed the practical value of language skills in enhancing trade and business.
“Last year alone, trade volume between China and Nigeria surpassed $20 trillion. With China offering zero tariff treatment for many Nigerian exports, the ability to communicate effectively in Mandarin can only further boost trade and investment.”
He further pledged support from the Chinese Embassy in encouraging Chinese businesses operating in Nigeria to engage with and promote the programme.
“We want more Chinese companies to participate and share their innovations, technologies, and stories with the Nigerian people through this platform.
“Let this programme become a shining symbol of our cultural exchange and a bridge of friendship,” Yu said.
The News Agency of Nigeria explains that Ni Hao! China means “Hello! China”
