In a groundbreaking achievement, Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State, has set a new academic milestone by confirming Prof Ifeanyi Odinye as the first-ever indigenous Professor of Chinese Language in Nigeria and potentially the entire African continent, marking a significant leap in linguistic and cultural education.
Prof Odinye, who has been at the forefront of promoting Chinese language studies since joining the university in 2005, recently earned the prestigious title, solidifying his position as a trailblazer in the field. His journey began in 2004 when the visionary Prof. Ilochi Okafor (SAN), then Vice-Chancellor, initiated the establishment of Chinese language studies at the university, inspired by a suggestion from the late Mr. Ike Mbaonu, a NAN staff with ties to China.
The pivotal moment came in 2005 when the Chinese Embassy’s visit, facilitated by Mr. Jiang Wenmin, led to the creation of the Confucius Institute, dedicated to teaching Chinese language and culture. Prof Odinye, nominated by Prof. Ilochi Okafor, pursued further studies in China from 2005 to 2007, marking the beginning of a transformative era for Chinese language education in Nigeria.
Prof. Liu Guancai, the first foreign lecturer, laid the foundation for Chinese language and culture classes at Nnamdi Azikiwe University in 2006. Prof Odinye, proficient in Igbo, English, and Chinese, succeeded Prof. Liu Guancai, becoming the first Nigerian indigenous Chinese lecturer. Subsequently, Mr. Zhang Jinping joined in 2008, and the inaugural set of diploma students graduated in 2009.
The Confucius Institute, officially established in 2008, saw Odinye serving as its Acting Director until the arrival of Prof. Ji Nengwen in 2009. In 2010, after completing a doctorate in Chinese language from Xiamen University, Prof Odinye returned to become the first Nigerian lecturer with a Ph.D. in Chinese language.
The National Universities Commission (NUC) recognized the significance of this academic venture by approving a Bachelor’s degree in Chinese Studies in 2014/2015, with Prof Odinye appointed as the pioneering coordinator of the Department of Chinese Studies.
Expressing gratitude to past Vice-Chancellors, Prof. Ilochi Okafor, Prof. Boniface Egboka, and Prof. Joseph Ahaneku, Prof Odinye commended the current Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Esimone, for their unwavering support and promotion. Despite the challenges faced as the first Chinese language lecturer in Nigeria, including a lack of resources and a demanding workload, Prof Odinye’s dedication and perseverance have paved the way for a new era of linguistic and cultural understanding at Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
