The Federal Government has approved the inclusion of the Chinese language (Mandarin) in the revised national curriculum for senior secondary schools across Nigeria.
According to officials, the decision follows a comprehensive review of the curriculum aimed at boosting students’ global competitiveness and strengthening cultural and economic ties between Nigeria and China.
“With this development, Mandarin will be taught alongside existing foreign languages such as French and Arabic, giving Nigerian students more options in second-language acquisition,” the Ministry of Education said.
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Education stakeholders have welcomed the move, noting that it will not only promote cross-cultural understanding but also create new opportunities for Nigerians in international trade, diplomacy, and technology partnerships. China remains one of Nigeria’s strongest economic allies, making the introduction of Chinese language in Nigerian schools a strategic policy shift.
The Federal Ministry of Education is expected to release implementation guidelines soon in collaboration with state ministries, school principals, and language instructors. Officials have also assured that training programmes and the recruitment of qualified teachers will accompany the rollout to ensure smooth integration into classrooms nationwide