Nigeria Strengthens Education Ties with China, Adds Mandarin to Curriculum

Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Secretary of Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, has announced that Mandarin Chinese has officially been included as one of the international languages in Nigeria’s senior secondary school curriculum.

The announcement was made during the inauguration of the 14th Chinese Corner at Government Secondary School, Tudun Wada, Abuja. The learning hub, established with support from the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), is part of ongoing efforts to deepen cultural and educational exchange between Nigeria and China.

Chinese Language Now Part of Nigeria’s Education Reform

Speaking at the event, Dr. Hayyo emphasized that the decision aligns with the recent review of Nigeria’s national curriculum, noting that Mandarin is now an optional international language alongside French and Arabic.

“Chinese Mandarin has the largest number of speakers in the world and has become the language of commerce, education, and tourism. Our decision to integrate it into the school system is a wise move,” he stated.

Hayyo also praised the FCT for its foresight in introducing the language earlier through Chinese Corners, which have already been established in multiple schools across Abuja.

The Role of Chinese Corners in Cultural Exchange

The newly commissioned Chinese Corner at GSS Tudun Wada marks the 14th center in the FCT. These hubs provide students with access to Mandarin lessons, cultural materials, and opportunities for international exchange.

Dr. Hayyo highlighted that the initiative has already produced significant results:

• Enhanced student access to Chinese education and culture

• Opportunities for further studies in China

• Capacity-building programs for teachers and staff in partnership with Chinese institutions

“Today, we are proud to say that the FCT is the only territory in Nigeria with established Chinese Corners in its schools,” he added.

Strengthening Nigeria–China Relations Through Education

Representing the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, Dr. Hayyo extended appreciation to the Chinese government and its embassy in Nigeria for sustained support. Quoting a Chinese proverb, he said: “Hai nei cun zhiji, tianya ruo bi lin,” meaning, “A bosom friend brings distant lands near.”

Also speaking at the event, Mr. Yang Jianxing, Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, explained that the establishment of Chinese Corners since 2013 has created:

• A bridge for cultural exchange

• A platform for people-to-people friendship

• A learning resource for Mandarin language education

He reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in education, culture, and youth exchange across Africa.

Nigeria’s New Curriculum Rollout

The inclusion of Mandarin comes shortly after the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) confirmed the completion of a comprehensive curriculum review.

• Implementation Date: 2025/2026 academic session

• Languages Offered: French, Arabic, and now Mandarin as optional international languages

To support the rollout, the Chinese Embassy recently donated 15 sets of teaching materials and cultural books to Nigerian secondary schools.

A Decade of Growth in Nigeria–China Educational Ties

According to the Director/Secretary of the FCT Secondary Education Board, Dr. Muhammed Ladan, the first Chinese Corner was launched in 2013 at GSS Garki. Since then, the program has expanded steadily, with two additional centers expected soon, backed by major Chinese companies operating in Nigeria.

“The Chinese Corners are not only fostering language learning but also providing access to scholarships, cultural exchange, and stronger bilateral ties,” Dr. Ladan said.

Key Takeaways

• Mandarin Chinese is now part of Nigeria’s senior secondary school curriculum.

• 14 Chinese Corners have been established in Abuja schools to promote Mandarin and Chinese culture.

• The initiative strengthens Nigeria–China bilateral relations in education and cultural exchange.

• The new curriculum takes effect from the 2025/2026 academic session.

✅ With Mandarin now officially part of the curriculum, Nigerian students are positioned to benefit from global opportunities in commerce, technology, and international relations.