Han Chinese, Mandarin in Nigeria

Introduction / History

The Han Chinese are the largest ethnic group in the world. Although the vast majority live in mainland China, many have immigrated to other countries, and today they reside in nearly every nation of the world including Nigeria.

Most Han Chinese speak one of the many Chinese dialects, which include Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien or Min Bei. The speakers of one Chinese dialect cannot understand the speakers of another. The writing system is the same so they can communicate on paper but not orally.

The Han Chinese fled to other countries after the Mongol invasion in 1276. Many other upheavals and conflicts followed, and the Chinese continued to settle in different nations, especially in Southeast Asia. Wherever they went, the Chinese settled almost exclusively in urban areas and became involved in business and commerce. Today, they are very influential in the economies of many of these nations, including Nigeria.

A small number of Mandarin Chinese people are settling there.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most Mandarin Chinese are working at or owning restaurants or shops. These shops often deal with robberies or theft by customs officials. Some Chinese individuals have suffered from kidnappings.

Chinese companies have established factories to produce ceramics or plastic goods. There have been complaints that wages are exceptionally low and the work conditions are substandard. The Chinese have also brought in thousands of temporary Chinese employees to work for very low wages.

The Mandarin Chinese who have settled in Nigeria have established their own schools and newspapers. They also have community organizations that have karaoke competitions.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Mandarin Chinese in Nigeria are secularized, but some have a strong faith in the Lord who can take the gospel to the unreached peoples of Nigeria.

What Are Their Needs?

Secularized thinking and a non-stop work schedule make the Mandarin Chinese unable to deal with their spiritual needs. There is a great opportunity for Mandarin Chinese Christ-followers to take Christ to the many unreached people groups in East Africa.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to use vibrant Mandarin Chinese Christ followers to disciple the unreached people groups of West Africa.
Pray for Chinese Christian believers to fill the bowls of incense with prayer for Africa.
Pray for the Mandarin Chinese to have the spiritual hunger to seek and find Jesus Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project