Hundreds of Nigerian students compete in Chinese proficiency contest

More than 500 students from primary and secondary schools in Nigeria have taken part in a Chinese language proficiency contest, dubbed "Chinese Bridge".

The 5th "Chinese Bridge" contest in Nigeria was held in the country's economic hub Lagos on Friday.

Sponsored by Chinese firms and associations in Nigeria, the competition was organized by the Confucius Institute at University of Lagos.

It involves presenting speeches in Chinese; question and answer session on China and talent shows on Chinese cultures including chanting verses, singing, dancing and Kung fu (Chinese martial arts).

Wang Yangjing, the Chinese director at the Confucius Institute, said in her opening address that the competition provided an opportunity for foreign students to know more about China.

She said the interest in learning Chinese language among Nigerian students was "encouraging", which she said would cement the friendship between the two countries.

On his part, Sanyaolu Olusoji, a student from Fountain High Secondary School, told Xinhua that he enjoyed the contest.

"It is a very good opportunity; the competition helps you show your competence and know more about the Chinese language and culture. It will also play a role in creating awareness among others about the Chinese (language)," he said.

Duro Oni, University of Lagos deputy chancellor in charge of management services, said the Chinese language and culture had been elevated to a "special level" at the university.

More than 1,000 secondary school students in Nigeria are learning Chinese language.

The Confucius Institute at University of Lagos and Confucius Institute at University of Nnamdi Azikiwe are the two main institutions to promote Chinese language study in Nigeria. Endit