PEP Donates Books To Nigeria’s Chinese Corner To Foster Cultural Exchange

People’s Education Press (PEP) has donated 15 sets of Chinese language teaching and cultural materials to support Chinese language education in Nigeria.

The donation, aimed at enhancing mutual understanding and strengthening cultural exchange between the two countries, was presented on Thursday to the Chinese Corner initiative.

Speaking at the book donation ceremony in Abuja, Counsellor Yang Jianxing of the Chinese Embassy described the gesture as “a vivid reflection of the friendly bond between China and Nigeria.”

He noted that the high-quality textbooks and cultural books will help Nigerian students better understand the Chinese language and culture.

“High-quality Chinese language textbooks and Chinese cultural books are a shortcut for Nigerian young students to quickly master Chinese and understand Chinese culture,” Yang said.

Launched in 2013, the Chinese Corner project now has 13 centres across Nigeria, with plans to open two more. The program offers Nigerian high school students opportunities to learn Mandarin and immerse themselves in Chinese traditions.

Many participants have gone on to study at Confucius Institutes or contribute to China-Nigeria cooperation projects.

Yang thanked PEP for their support, describing the donated materials as “seeds of friendship” between the two nations. “These seeds will take root, germinate, and grow, eventually becoming towering trees that connect the hearts of Chinese and Nigerian youth,” he added.

Looking ahead to 2026, designated as the “China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges,” the Chinese Embassy expressed its intention to further deepen educational cooperation.

Plans include introducing customised Chinese language materials and possibly launching China-Nigeria educational TV programs.

“May the path of educational cooperation between China and Nigeria become broader and broader. May China-Nigeria friendship last forever,” said Counsellor Yang.

Dr. Muhammed Sani Ladan, Director/Secretary of the FCT Secondary Education Board, emphasised the significance of the collaboration between the board and China through the People’s Education Press (PEP), describing the donation as a product of a meaningful and ongoing relationship.

He recalled the visit of the PEP executives from Beijing, noting that diplomatic courtesy visits lead to impactful educational support and resource sharing.

Dr. Ladan stated, “Some months ago, the executives of the People’s Education Press came all the way from Beijing, and it gave birth to this philanthropic donation we are about to witness today.”

Dr. Ladan pointed out that the book donation is not just a gift, but a tool for empowerment and long-term knowledge transmission.

Referring to a Chinese proverb, Dr. Ladan stated, “In those books, we are going to learn how to catch fish rather than being given a fish.”

He further reinforced the belief that education is transformative: “Education is life, wealth, and freedom.”

The Director conveyed deep appreciation to the Chinese Embassy and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to sustained cultural and educational ties.

“You have genuinely given us life, and you have fulfilled the Chinese principles of shared prosperity for humanity.” He concluded by assuring continued support in advancing bilateral relations as “a win-win cooperation.”