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Envoy Identifies Proficiency in Chinese Language as a Path to Career Progression
Envoy Identifies Proficiency in Chinese Language as a Path to Career Progression
By: Michael Mike
The Director, China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Mr. Li Xuda has advocated for the teaching of Chinese language in schools across Nigeria, noting that this would open doors to a wide range of career paths and job opportunities that would inevitably enhance many Nigerians competitiveness in an ever-evolving world.
The Director, who gave the advise at the finals of 23rd Seasoned of the Chinese Bridge-“Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students”, held virtually in Abuja, at the weekend, said acquiring fluency in Chinese language would improve the chance of being employed in the international labour market as Chinese language is widely used.
He noted that the Bridge-Chinese Proficiency competition, which highlights the importance of language and cultural exchange between China and Nigeria aims to boost participants’ interest in learning Chinese and deepen their cultural understanding.
He also said that the competition, connects China with the world, strengthens mutual understanding, bilateral relationship and create rooms for economic growth and cultural exchange.
“With China’s expanding influence in international trade, technology, and diplomacy, the ability to communicate effectively in Chinese is viewed as a valuable asset for individuals seeking to advance their careers in an interconnected world. All our students should learn Chinese because most of the jobs or opportunities come when you know at least two foreign languages.” Xuda said
He explained that “Chinese Bridge” is a symbol of cultural exchange and language proficiency, and its successful organization in Nigeria is a testament to the growing interest in Chinese language and culture among Nigerian students.
He noted that most foreign employers hunt for employees who are skilled in Chinese language, which calls for the need to learn the language.
“Employers across industries are increasingly seeking candidates with Chinese language skills to engage with Chinese partners, clients, and markets. As businesses look to expand their operations in China and tap into its consumer base, the demand for employees proficient in Chinese is expected to rise significantly in the coming years”. He explained
Also speaking, the Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Yu Zhangbao, noted that hard work, determination with a conducive learning environment, Students will be able to perform well, showcase their skills and style, and achieve excellent results towards enhancing national and economic growth.
He said: @The “Chinese Bridge” Chinese competition has greatly inspired more young people to learn Chinese and understand Chinese culture. It has also greatly increased the visibility of Chinese teaching in Nigeria in the global Chinese teaching circle. I believe that with everyone’s efforts, we will make further progress. I wish all the contestants perform well, show their skills and style, and achieve excellent results.”
The Dean, University of lagos Confucius Institute, Zhao hongling, in his part, stressed that the “Chinese Bridge” competition connects China with the world, providing a platform for college students to showcase their Chinese language skills and understanding of the Chinese culture.
He noted that: “The successful organisation of the Nigerian finals is due to the hard work of many leaders, teachers, and staff, whose dedication is greatly appreciated. This competition emphasizes that hard work leads to success in learning Chinese, regardless of when one starts. It aims to boost participants’ enthusiasm for learning Chinese and deepen their cultural understanding.
“On behalf of the Confucius Institute at University of lagos, I wish all participants the best and hope for the competition’s complete success in Nigeria.”
The 23rd season of the Chinese Bridge Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students, which leads Chinese learners around the world to a more diverse and harmonious future, had 12 college students from all over Nigeria as participants.
After a series of excellent displays, Zhengui emerged winner of the competition while Zhou Wenjing and Qi Siheng came second, with Shen Moli, Chen Peixi, and Tian Jie placed third.
The winner of the contest has the opportunity to travel to China and compete in the global “Chinese Bridge” competition.
Envoy Identifies Proficiency in Chinese Language as a Path to Career Progression
Chadian security forces recover cache of arms, arrest suspects in N’Djamena
By: Zagazola Makama
Chadian security forces on Sunday recovered a large cache of weapons and ammunition during a joint search operation in parts of the capital, N’Djamena, as part of intensified efforts to combat insecurity.
Sources Zagazola Makama that the operation was carried out in the 10th arrondissement and parts of the 2nd arrondissement of the city.
According to the sources, the joint team of internal security forces seized 28 pistols, 14 other firearms, and more than 1,000 rounds of assorted ammunition during the raid.
They also recovered military equipment and six vehicles suspected to be linked to criminal activities.
“Two gun owners were arrested during the operation and are currently in custody for further investigation,” a senior security official said.
He explained that the exercise was conducted under the supervision of top security authorities and formed part of broader measures to dismantle criminal networks and curb the proliferation of illegal arms in the capital.
The official added that the recovery of the weapons had significantly disrupted the operations of armed groups and criminal elements in the affected districts.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Chadian security services to sustaining pressure on all groups involved in arms trafficking, banditry and other threats to public safety.
“The security forces will continue intelligence-led operations to ensure the safety of lives and property across the country,” he said.
Chadian security forces recover cache of arms, arrest suspects in N’Djamena
VP Shettima Arrives In Switzerland For 56th World Economic Forum
To Commission Nigerian House in Davos Tomorrow
By: Our Reporter
Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in the alpine town of Davos, Switzerland, to lead the Nigerian delegation at the 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF), scheduled to be held from January 19 to 23, 2026.
The Vice President arrived from Conakry, Guinea, where he represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the presidential inauguration of President Mamadi Doumbouya on Saturday.
He was received on arrival by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yussuf Tuggar, and Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, and officials of the Nigerian mission in Switzerland.
The 2026 WEF marks a milestone in Nigeria’s global economic diplomacy with the official debut of “Nigeria House Davos.” For the first time, the Federal Government has established a dedicated sovereign pavilion on the Davos Promenade.
This facility, a product of a successful Public-Private Partnership (PPP), will serve as a permanent hub for high-level ministerial engagements, investment roundtables, and cultural diplomacy throughout the week.
Vice President Shettima will present Nigeria’s 2026 economic outlook to the world’s most influential political and business leaders, as he participates in key plenary sessions focusing on the responsible deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and biotechnology.
Throughout the week, the Vice President will hold bilateral meetings with heads of state, top executives from multinational corporations, and leaders of international development finance institutions to deepen partnerships that align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In an interview with journalists shortly after the VP’s arrival, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole said Nigeria would makena robust presentation of investment opportunities in the country at the launch of the Nigeria House in Davos which will focus on President Tinubu’s efforts in revamping the economy.
According to the Minister, “we will be showcasing four playbooks on President Tinubu’s efforts in re-engineering the Nigerian economy. We will present our solid minerals sector, climate sustainability agriculture, creative and digital sectors to investors from all over the world.”
VP Shettima Arrives In Switzerland For 56th World Economic Forum
CDN Backs Federal Government’s U.S. Lobby Contract, Calls It Strategic Security Move
By: Michael Mike
The Coalition in Defence of Nigeria (CDN) has publicly supported the Federal Government’s decision to engage a United States-based lobbying firm over allegations of Christian genocide in Nigeria, describing the move as a strategic step toward strengthening the nation’s security and international relations.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, the coalition insisted that the engagement of the lobby firm is not merely a public relations exercise but a deliberate investment in Nigeria’s long-term stability and global credibility.
The National Publicity Secretary of CDN, Mallam Isa Shehu, said Nigeria is currently grappling with serious security challenges such as terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and organized crime. He noted that these threats extend beyond Nigeria’s borders and are often connected to international networks involved in arms trafficking, extremist financing, and cybercrime.
Shehu argued that hiring a reputable U.S. lobbying firm would help Nigeria build stronger partnerships with foreign governments, particularly in areas of intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism collaboration, and technical support for security agencies.
He further explained that the move would ensure that Nigeria’s security concerns receive greater attention in Washington and other global decision-making centres, reinforcing the government’s commitment to protecting lives and restoring peace across the country.
The coalition stressed that tackling insecurity requires collective effort, not just government action. It called on civil society groups, business leaders, political actors, and ordinary citizens to play their roles in promoting national unity and security.
While acknowledging that the lobby contract alone cannot solve Nigeria’s security problems, the CDN maintained that it is a valuable diplomatic tool that could strengthen the country’s position on the global stage.
The group urged Nigerians to support the Federal Government’s decision, saying the issue is not political but essential for national survival and development.
The CDN concluded by reaffirming its full backing for the initiative and calling for nationwide solidarity in the fight against insecurity.
CDN Backs Federal Government’s U.S. Lobby Contract, Calls It Strategic Security Move
Chadian security forces recover cache of arms, arrest suspects in N’Djamena
VP Shettima Arrives In Switzerland For 56th World Economic Forum
CDN Backs Federal Government’s U.S. Lobby Contract, Calls It Strategic Security Move
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