Nigerian citizens gathered in major cities across the United States, including New York, over the weekend to partake in a vibrant carnival celebrating the 64th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence.
The parades and carnivals were organized in other significant U.S. states, such as Texas, Maryland, Georgia, Massachusetts, and New Jersey.
The Nigeria Independence Day Parade and Carnival in New York closed East 38th to 24th Street and Madison Avenue, uniting Nigerians from diverse backgrounds and supporters to honour their nation’s independence through remarkable cultural displays.
The event highlighted the richness of Nigerian culture and community spirit, as well as the contributions of Nigerian-Americans to both New York and the broader United States.
The audience was captivated by a stellar performance from KCEE, along with other artists and DJs, while various stage acts added to the event’s allure, allowing attendees to enjoy singing and dancing to Nigerian music.
The week-long celebration, which concluded on Sunday, featured the raising of the Nigerian flag in Bowling Green, the financial hub of the world, alongside a gala dinner, a welcome party, and an after-party.
In his welcoming remarks, the Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, Ambassador Abubakar Jidda, expressed to the attendees that “the Nigeria of our dreams is not a distant reality but one that we are all striving to achieve together.”
Ambassador Jidda emphasized the importance of maintaining hope among Nigerians in the diaspora, assuring them that despite the challenges faced at home, the country they envision is attainable.
“We must remain prayerful, and resilient, as well as contribute in our own unique way to the development of our country.
“Let us not forget what makes us uniquely Nigerians. Our talents have continued to shine both at home and abroad,” the Nigerian envoy said.
He paid glowing tribute to Nigerians who were excelling on the global stage, like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Akinwumi Adesina, Phillip Ozuah, Amina Mohammed, Benedict Oramah, and Phillip Ozuah, among others, as examples of the brilliance and leadership that Nigeria brought to the world.
“Their achievements remind us that Nigeria has a wealth of talent that continues to contribute positively to global progress. I also celebrate millions of our unsung heroes in the United States and beyond,” he said.
Jidda said Nigeria had continued to be a pillar of strength on the global stage, adding,“We have led in peacekeeping, championed democracy, and contributed to economic development across Africa and globally”.
The Nigerian diplomat urged compatriots to celebrate this year’s independence anniversary with “Renewed Hope”, charging them to: “continue to strive, build, and hope.”
“For as long as we remain united, there is nothing that can stop the rise of our great nation. We are Nigeria, and there is no limit to what we can achieve together,” Jidda admonished.
In his address earlier, the Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, lauded Nigeria’s rich culture and Nigerian-Americans’ lofty contributions to the City, especially his election, the positive energy, and the unique music, cuisines and fashion.
“The Nigerian community is strong, business-minded, family-minded and dedicated to community, so raise the flag, show your strength,” Adams said.
The President of the Organization for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN), Tomi Aregbesola, emphasized in her opening remarks the importance of global unity among Nigerians.
Olayinka DanSalami, Chairman of the Nigeria Independence Day Committee (NIDC), stated that the parade and carnival, held annually since their inception in 1991, serve as a platform to present Nigeria to the international community.
The NIDC comprises a coalition of Nigerian cultural, religious, professional, business, and civic organizations dedicated to preserving, presenting, and celebrating Nigeria’s rich history and culture.