Emmanuel Faith Mba Orjiugo of the Confucius Institute at Nnamdi Azikiwe University has emerged winner of the inter-university Chinese Language Competition, scoring 94 points to top a field of contestants from institutions across Nigeria.
The competition, themed “One World, One Family,” brought together students, educators, cultural institutions and diplomatic representatives in a showcase of Mandarin language proficiency and cultural exchange aimed at strengthening educational and people-to-people ties between Nigeria and China.
Speaking at the event, the Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria and representative of the Chinese Embassy, Yang Jianxing, described the competition as a demonstration of the growing friendship between Nigeria and China and the increasing popularity of Chinese language education among Nigerian youths.
“The theme of this year’s college competition is ‘One World, One Family.’ These words are rooted in the core Chinese cultural philosophy of harmony and coexistence and they resonate deeply with the shared aspirations of peoples across the world today,” he said.
Yang noted that participants were serving as cultural ambassadors between both countries through their commitment to learning the language.
“Language is a bridge for dialogue between civilisations and a bond that unites hearts and minds. By expressing your thoughts and emotions in fluent Chinese language, each and every one of you is giving expression to the spirit of ‘One World, One Family’.”
He further said:
“You are not only learners of the Chinese language, you are also inheritors and witnesses of the friendship between China and Nigeria and you carry with you the profound hopes of our two peoples for greater understanding and closeness.”
Highlighting the significance of the period, Yang said:
“This year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria, as well as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. Over 55 years of shared journey, the people of China and Nigeria have forged a deep and enduring friendship.”
He added that the Chinese Embassy and the China Cultural Centre would continue to support Chinese language education and youth exchange programmes.
“The Embassy and the Cultural Centre will further support the development of Chinese language education, actively promote youth exchanges and mutual visits between the two countries and continue to host a wide range of cultural activities.”
Also speaking, the Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Mohamed Bulama, described the spread of Mandarin studies in Nigeria as a positive development capable of deepening bilateral relations.
“It is heartwarming to note that some universities have already taken giant steps in promoting the development of Chinese language education in Nigeria.”
Bulama commended the Chinese Embassy and partner institutions for organising the competition.
“This is a clear demonstration of the fact that the bilateral ties between Nigeria and China are becoming stronger and stronger — diplomatic, trade, cultural and educational.”
He called for the expansion of Mandarin studies in Nigerian tertiary institutions.
“I would like to encourage the Chinese Embassy to liaise with the Ministry of Education in Nigeria to facilitate the promotion of the teaching of the Chinese language, Mandarin, in more tertiary institutions in Nigeria.”
According to him, knowledge of the Chinese language would position more Nigerians to benefit from growing global engagements with China.
“China is increasingly becoming a very important member of the international community. It is important that as many Nigerians as possible learn to speak the Chinese language.”
Bulama also highlighted the partnership between Radio Nigeria and the Chinese Embassy.
“Radio Nigeria, in partnership with the Chinese Embassy and the Cultural Centre, has introduced the teaching of the Mandarin language on our network service. The programme is called Ni Hao China, and we are very proud and happy to do so.”
Speaking on behalf of the arts community, President of the Society of Nigerian Artists, Muhammad Suleiman, described the event as more than a language contest.
“This is not only a contest of language skills, but also a grand event where the two brilliant cultures of China and Nigeria shine together.”
He said language learning broadens perspectives and creates opportunities for international understanding.
“Learning a language is never just about mastering vocabulary. It opens a door to a whole new world, a new way of thinking and diverse ways of expressing emotions.”
Suleiman also expressed appreciation to China for its longstanding relationship with Nigeria.
“China and Nigeria are good friends and brothers who stand together through wind and rain and share weal and woe. At times when Nigeria faced difficulties, China has always stood side by side with us.”
Reflecting on the performances by contestants, he said:
“Today, seeing young people showcase themselves through such rich and diverse forms as language, calligraphy, music and traditional culture, I feel deeply comforted and joyful.”
He added that the competition embodied the spirit of international friendship.
“What we celebrate today is not only the charm of the Chinese language itself, but also the spirit it embodies a spirit that connects hearts and links the world.”
At the conclusion of the competition, Emmanuel Faith Mba Orjiugo of the Confucius Institute at Nnamdi Azikiwe University emerged overall winner with 94 points.
Onyeocha Cecilea Ugochi, also of the Confucius Institute at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, came second with 82.7 points, while Okeke Jessica Chinemerem secured third place with 79.9 points.
Other contestants from Nnamdi Azikiwe University included Ezemba Maryjane Chinelo, who scored 77.7 points, and Ogechi Chizaram Chibuike, who recorded 76.3 points.
From the Confucius Institute at the University of Lagos, Omoleye Deborah Oluwapelumi scored 76.3 points, Abdullateef Ridwanat Omobola recorded 70.6 points, Adesanya Abrahamoluwalonimioluwalonimi scored 68.5 points, Ogbonna Rebecca Onyinyechi recorded 61.9 points, while Adediran Taiwo Adeshola scored 60.3 points.
Blessing Anyanwu of the Chinese Language Classroom at the University of Nigeria scored 55.2 points.
The organisers said the competition was designed to promote Chinese language education, encourage intercultural understanding and provide a platform for Nigerian students to compete for opportunities that could include representing the country at international Chinese language contests and pursuing further studies in China.