The Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, has described the Ni Hao China Chinese language radio programme as an important platform for strengthening friendship, cultural understanding and people-to-people exchanges between Nigeria and China.
Speaking at an event marking 456 days of collaboration between the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) and the China Cultural Centre on the programme in Abuja, Yang said Ni Hao China was launched on FRCN in July 2024 through a partnership involving the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, FRCN and the China Cultural Centre.
According to him, the programme has since provided Nigerian audiences with engaging Chinese language lessons while introducing listeners to China’s history, culture, food traditions, daily life and cultural exchanges with Nigeria.
He noted that, beyond FM radio stations across the country, the programme is also accessible through FRCN’s website, YouTube channel and other digital platforms.
Yang said the programme has become a bridge of friendship and mutual understanding between the peoples of both countries, while creating opportunities for Nigerians interested in learning the Chinese language and exploring educational and professional prospects linked to China.
He noted that the celebration comes as Nigeria and China mark the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations, describing the programme as both a witness to and a driving force behind the growing relationship between the two countries.
Yang also highlighted the significance of the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, saying Ni Hao China would continue to play a vital role in fostering cultural learning and strengthening traditional friendship between China, Nigeria and Africa at large.
Looking ahead, he outlined three priority areas for the programme’s growth.
The first, he said, is the enrichment of content through expanded coverage of Chinese culture, tourism, education and everyday life, while also incorporating lessons that teach listeners how to present Nigerian culture and traditions in Chinese.
Secondly, he called for the adoption of more innovative audience engagement strategies through the integration of traditional radio with digital platforms, short-form videos, social media and physical cultural activities.
The third area, he said, is increased youth participation through greater involvement of young Nigerians in Chinese language learning, cultural exchanges and bilateral programmes.
Also speaking, the Director-General of FRCN, Dr Mohammed Bulama, said Nigeria and China are nations with strong prospects for global leadership and should continue to deepen cooperation for mutual benefit.
Bulama described China as a global economic powerhouse and expressed confidence that Nigeria, despite its challenges, possesses the potential to achieve greatness.
He said both countries stand to learn from one another and stressed the importance of communication and language as tools for building stronger bilateral relations.
The FRCN Director-General commended Yang for his commitment to the initiative, noting that the programme gained momentum following his arrival in Nigeria.
Bulama added that platforms such as Ni Hao China provide opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual understanding, pointing out that Chinese broadcasters also air Hausa-language programmes for their audiences.
He reaffirmed FRCN’s commitment to programming that promotes cultural education, international cooperation and public interest.
According to him, the programme has enabled Nigerians in various parts of the country to gain insight into Chinese culture, traditions, festivals and innovations, while simultaneously showcasing Nigeria’s cultural diversity to international audiences.
Bulama described the initiative as evidence that radio remains one of the most resilient and effective channels of communication in Nigeria.
Representing the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abuja Council Chairperson Grace Ike said the programme has become a meaningful bridge between Nigeria and China.
She noted that the significance of the celebration extends beyond the number of days on air, representing sustained communication, cultural exchange, mutual learning and people-to-people diplomacy.
Ike said the initiative demonstrates the role of the media in promoting understanding, correcting misconceptions and fostering peaceful coexistence among nations.
She urged organisers and partners to continue expanding the programme through radio, digital platforms and social media to reach more Nigerians, particularly young people.
The NUJ chairperson congratulated the producers, presenters, partners and listeners of the programme on the milestone and expressed hope that it would continue to serve as a platform for friendship, cooperation and shared progress between Nigeria and China.
The event brought together officials of FRCN, representatives of the Chinese Embassy, language educators, cultural exchange advocates and media stakeholders to celebrate the programme’s achievements and discuss future opportunities for strengthening cultural ties between the two countries.
