The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved the addition of the Chinese language to the Senior Secondary School curriculum, effective from the 2025/2026 academic session, following a review by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) under the Federal Ministry of Education.

Dr. Danlami Hayyo, Secretary of Education for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), announced the development during the inauguration of the 14th Chinese Corner at Government Secondary School Tudun Wada in Abuja on September 17, 2025. The optional subject will join French and Arabic as foreign language choices, aiming to equip students with skills for global competitiveness.

Education officials described the Mandarin offering as non-compulsory, allowing students to select it alongside other international languages. The policy seeks to build linguistic abilities and cultural awareness, potentially enhancing opportunities in commerce, education, and tourism.

Hayyo praised the FCT's early adoption of Chinese through these corners, noting Mandarin's status as the world's most spoken language and its relevance in global trade. "Our decision to delve into Chinese education and culture is a wise move," he said, highlighting the establishment of 13 such centers prior to this one, which facilitate cultural exchanges and pathways for further studies in China. He quoted a Chinese proverb: "Hai nei cun zhiji, tianya ruo bi lin," translating to "A bosom friend brings distant lands near."

Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, viewed the initiative as a testament to strengthening bilateral ties. He recalled the program's start 12 years ago as a platform for cultural and educational exchanges, now spanning 14 centers in the FCT—the only such network in Nigeria. 

Dr. Muhammed Ladan, Director/Secretary of the FCT Secondary Education Board, emphasized the corners' role in providing Mandarin learning resources, scholarship opportunities, and diplomatic ties through artistic collaborations. The move aligns with Nigeria's expanding relations with China in trade, infrastructure, and technology, where experts see potential for youth in international business.

Despite the enthusiasm, stakeholders have voiced concerns over nationwide implementation, including teacher training, curriculum development, and material distribution across states. The government has committed to issuing guidelines ahead of the rollout, prioritizing educator preparation and support resources to ensure equitable access.