
Nigerian student wins global Chinese proficiency prize
Faith Emmanuel, a student from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, won the Global Third Prize at the 25th "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students in Xiamen, China. Emmanuel, known by her Chinese name Lu Xingyao, is a participant of the Confucius Institute at UNIZIK. She was among 157 contestants from 138 countries in the global contest. The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria congratulated Emmanuel, calling her an "outstanding Nigerian youth." Her achievement is notable as she began learning Chinese in March 2025, progressing to the Global Top 30 and then securing the Global Third Prize despite many competitors having years more experience. This marks her as the 12th contestant from the UNIZIK Confucius Institute to reach the "Chinese Bridge" Global Top 30 since 2018. Qin Fangfang of the Confucius Institute at Nnamdi Azikiwe University highlighted Emmanuel's journey as a reflection of the determination of Nigerian youths. The "Chinese Bridge" competition aims to test Chinese-language proficiency and cultural knowledge among international students. The UNIZIK Confucius Institute has a strong record, with its contestants winning three African championships, four Global First Prizes, and four Global Third Prizes since 2018. Prof. Yu Zhangbao, the Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, expressed confidence in Emmanuel's performance, noting her participation showcases Nigerian youth's talent and determination on a global stage



