FG Introduces Chinese Language to New Curriculum for Secondary School

In a bold move to strengthen international relations and expand educational opportunities, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially included Mandarin Chinese in the secondary school curriculum.

The new development was announced by Dr. Danlami Hayyo, Secretary of Education for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), during the launch of the 14th Chinese Corner at Government Secondary School, Tudun Wada, Abuja.

This change, which will take effect from the 2025/2026 academic session, places Chinese alongside French and Arabic as foreign language options available to senior secondary school students in Nigeria.

Why Chinese?

Mandarin is the world’s most spoken language, with over a billion speakers globally. Beyond its cultural value, China is one of Nigeria’s strongest economic and diplomatic partners. By introducing Chinese to the school curriculum, the government aims to prepare Nigerian students for greater opportunities in international business, diplomacy, education, and cultural exchange.

According to Dr. Hayyo, the inclusion of Mandarin is not only about language but also about people-to-people connections. He emphasized that the Chinese Corners—sponsored by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC)—will serve as hubs for cultural exchange, scholarships, and educational growth.

Benefits for students

Global Competitiveness: Learning Mandarin could make Nigerian students more competitive in the international job market.

Scholarship Opportunities: With stronger ties to China, students may gain access to scholarships and study-abroad programs.

Cultural Exposure: Exposure to Chinese traditions, values, and culture can foster broader worldviews.

Diversified Learning: Students now have more language options to choose from, giving them an edge in careers like diplomacy, trade, and technology.

While the decision has been praised, some challenges remain. Nigeria will need qualified Mandarin teachers, proper teaching resources, and consistent funding to make the program successful. Without these, the policy may struggle to deliver its intended results.

Nigerians react;

@AdaezeOkoro: “We never sabi English finish, now dem wan add zhōngwén (Chinese language) join. Abeg who go teach am?”

@OluwaKenny: “Omo, imagine teacher shouting ‘zuò xià!’ (sit down) for class. Na real wahala be this.”

@IamChuks: “Before you know, exam question go be like ‘Nǐ jiào shénme míngzì?’ (What’s your name). Na by force we wan relocate to China?”

@FisayoWrites: “This government sabi misplace priorities. Schools no even get chairs, na Chinese dem dey bring.”

@BayoD: “If this thing go help children get scholarships in China, then I support am. At least dem fit get better opportunities.”

@QueenMimi: “Na so o! Before long national anthem go get China remix. Nigeria don finally turn branch office.”