Voice of Nigeria (VON) has announced plans to commence broadcasting in Mandarin, aiming to deepen cultural and diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China.
This was launched during the 2025 UN Chinese Language Day celebration at VON’s Lagos office.
Representing VON’s Director-General, Mallam Jibrin Ndace, Deputy Director of Finance, Mr. Sulaimon Shittu, stated the significance of Mandarin as one of the United Nations’ recognised languages.
He said that incorporating Mandarin into VON’s broadcasts would enhance communication with Chinese-speaking audiences and reflect Nigeria’s commitment to global engagement.
The decision aligns with Nigeria’s broader strategy to foster stronger economic and cultural partnerships with China.
China’s growing influence in Africa, coupled with its longstanding bilateral relationship with Nigeria, particularly in trade and infrastructure development, underscores the importance of this move.
In addition to expanding its linguistic repertoire, VON is exploring collaborative content production with Chinese media outlets.
This partnership aims to facilitate mutual understanding and present positive narratives about both nations.
Discussions are also underway to establish exchange programmes, allowing Nigerian journalists to train in China and vice versa, further strengthening media ties between the two countries.
Currently, VON broadcasts in eight languages: Arabic, English, French, Fulfulde, Hausa, Igbo, Kiswahili, and Yoruba.
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