The Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Ms. Yan Yuqing, has reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening trade and bilateral relations with Nigeria through cultural exchange, education and language development.

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Speaking during a visit to Grace Schools in Lagos, Yuqing said cultural engagement, particularly the teaching of the Mandarin language, remains a vital tool for fostering stronger economic and diplomatic cooperation between the two countries.

She commended Grace Schools for promoting Mandarin education among Nigerian children, noting that language serves as a bridge for friendship, mutual understanding and economic opportunities. Yuqing pledged to mobilise the Chinese business community in Nigeria to support the school’s cultural and educational initiatives, saying such partnerships would further enhance trade relations. She also highlighted that 2026 marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria, expressing optimism about a stronger future for both nations.

According to the envoy, Chinese President Xi Jinping’s development agenda for Africa focuses on industrialisation, agricultural modernisation and talent development. She said both countries could strengthen cooperation in technology transfer and vocational education to create mutually beneficial outcomes. “Cultural exchange like what we are witnessing today is a good way to boost trade. I promise to galvanise the Chinese business community in Lagos to come to your school for more cultural programmes,” she said.

Yuqing stressed that learning Mandarin from an early age has become increasingly important in today’s globalised world, revealing that Grace Schools has offered Mandarin classes for nearly 16 years. She noted that proficiency in the language could significantly improve employment prospects, adding that the growing presence of Chinese businesses worldwide has increased demand for Mandarin speakers.

She said language has the power to break barriers and strengthen international cooperation, encouraging more Nigerian students to embrace Mandarin as a valuable skill that could open doors to education, career advancement and global opportunities.