This photo taken on Nov. 28, 2024 shows the city view of Abuja, Nigeria. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)
The Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) has officially launched a new Mandarin-language radio program titled "Ni Hao, China" ("Hello, China") to foster people-to-people communication and strengthen cultural ties between China and Nigeria.
ABUJA, July 12 (Xinhua) -- The Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) has officially launched a new Mandarin-language radio program titled "Ni Hao, China" ("Hello, China") to foster people-to-people communication and strengthen cultural ties between China and Nigeria.
Inaugurated on Thursday in Abuja, the Nigerian capital, the weekly radio program, to be aired every Wednesday, aims to serve as a bridge for mutual understanding and collaboration between the two nations.
Mohammed Bulama, director-general of the FRCN, described the launch as a "landmark moment" for Nigeria's media landscape, emphasizing that the radio program is the first of its kind by a Nigerian media organization to introduce the teaching of the Mandarin language, underscoring the national radio's commitment to blazing new trails in international cultural exchange.
The primary objective of "Ni Hao, China" is to introduce Nigerians, particularly the youth, to the Chinese language and culture, Bulama said, noting that the program is envisioned not just as a standalone broadcast, but as a foundational step toward future Mandarin broadcasts, including on the sister radio station, Voice of Nigeria, with the aspiration that Nigerians will eventually take the lead in producing such programs.
People show calligraphy work at an annual temple fair, a traditional cultural event featuring all kinds of Chinese folk art, in Abuja, Nigeria, Feb. 3, 2024. (China Cultural Center in Abuja/Handout via Xinhua)
He said this initiative aligns with the Nigerian government's commitment to strengthening the bilateral relationship with China, adding that the program reflects a deliberate effort to deepen engagement beyond traditional diplomatic channels and foster a more direct connection between the citizens of both countries.
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Yu Dunhai lauded the program as both "timely and essential," highlighting the critical role of people-to-people exchanges in underpinning robust state-to-state relations.
Explaining that such initiatives are key to building lasting friendships and cooperation between nations, Yu expressed optimism that "Ni Hao, China" will offer Nigerians an opportunity to learn the Chinese language and immerse themselves in China's culture, history, and social development, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding, while significantly boosting trade and investment.
The radio program is expected to evolve into a "shining symbol of cultural exchange and a bridge of friendship," further solidifying the strong bonds between China and Nigeria, the envoy added.
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