Photo of Contestants and Guests

On November 9th, Abuja, the vibrant capital of Nigeria, played host to the "China-Africa Good Partners - 2024 Nigerian Chinese Language Speech Contest," an event that celebrated linguistic and cultural exchange. The contest was a collaborative effort between the China Culture Center in Nigeria, the Confucius Institute at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, and the Confucius Institute at the University of Lagos. It attracted a distinguished crowd, including Yang Jianxing, the Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Culture Center in Nigeria, as well as Yu Zhangbao and Zhao Hongling, Directors of the Confucius Institutes at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and the University of Lagos respectively.

The event brought together representatives from Chinese enterprises in Nigeria, enthusiastic students, dedicated instructors, and nearly a hundred attendees who shared a common passion for cultural dialogue.

The judging panel featured notable figures such as Yang Jianxing, Li Jian, the First Secretary of the Cultural Division of the Chinese Embassy, Wang Xuefeng of the China Culture Center, Hou Ming, a Xinhua News Agency correspondent in Nigeria, and Cui Guangzhen, Secretary-General of the Nigerian Chinese Chamber of Commerce. Adding to the event's prestige, Lin Jones, Executive Director of MCG International Media Center, and Bai Ruxue, Personnel Manager, were also present to witness the inspiring showcase of language proficiency and cross-cultural camaraderie.

Xinhua News Agency reporters Hou Ming and Yang Zhe, along with MCG Media Director Lin Jones, presenting awards to the winners

In his address, Counselor Yang Jianxing emphasized that the true essence of international exchange lies in the bonds formed between people, and these bonds pave the way for genuine mutual understanding. He highlighted the significant role that Chinese language education plays in fostering cultural exchange between China and Nigeria, serving as a vital bridge that strengthens friendship and cooperation between their peoples. Counselor Yang expressed his hope that Nigerian students learning Chinese would seize the opportunity presented by the contest, strive to enhance their language skills, and become ambassadors of goodwill, nurturing the ties that unite China and Nigeria.

Speech by Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counselor of Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Director of the China Culture Center in Nigeria

During the contest, participants captivated the audience by sharing their perspectives and heartfelt reflections in Chinese on themes such as China-Africa cooperation, cultural exchange, and the legacy of friendship. They spoke passionately about the positive impact of China-Africa collaborations, envisioned bright futures for partnerships between China and Nigeria, and conveyed their profound appreciation for the bond between the two regions. Their speeches showcased the dedication and enthusiasm of Nigerian Chinese language learners, highlighting their hopes for strengthened ties between China and Africa.

Amidst the spirited competition, Zhang Jianing stood out and claimed the Grand Prize with her remarkable speech titledBuilding the Bridge of Friendship Between China and Nigeria with Tiny Efforts. Chen Peixi and Cheng Ruoshi followed closely, earning First Prizes for their impressive performances.

Zhang Jianing presenting her speech titled "Building the Bridge of Friendship Between China and Nigeria with Tiny Efforts"

Counselor Yang Jianxing presenting a certificate to the Grand Prize winner

The friendship between China and Africa is rooted in a rich and enduring history. The successfulChina-Africa Good Partners - 2024 Nigerian Chinese Language Speech Conteststood as a testament to the achievements of Chinese language education in Nigeria and brought fresh momentum to cultural exchange and collaboration between the two regions. This event offered a unique platform for local participants to showcase their skills and deepen their appreciation of Chinese culture as they honed their language abilities. Additionally, it provided a valuable opportunity for enterprises to identify and connect with emerging talent, further reinforcing the bridge between education and professional development.

Counselor Yang Jianxing interviewed by the media