On October 1, the Canadian city of Winnipeg marked a significant occasion as it celebrated Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary. The event was commemorated with a flag-raising ceremony at Winnipeg City Hall, attended by prominent figures including Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham and the President of the Nigerian Association of Manitoba (NAMI), Vera Obehi Keyede. The ceremony highlighted the growing presence and contributions of Nigerians in Winnipeg.
The event brought together a diverse group of attendees, including Deputy Premier of Manitoba and Minister of Health, Uzoma Asagwara, Oloro of Oro and Paramount Ruler of Oro Kingdom, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye Titiloye Olufayo II, community leaders, and members of the Nigerian diaspora. Mayor Gillingham welcomed the gathering by acknowledging the significant impact Nigerians have had on the city's development. He noted their contributions across various sectors such as business, education, healthcare, and the arts.
During his address, Mayor Gillingham described Winnipeg's Nigerian community as "large and growing," emphasizing their substantial contributions to the city's progress. He highlighted that Nigerians have made their mark in business and entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, public service, the arts, and faith communities. The mayor's remarks underscored the importance of recognizing and celebrating the Nigerian community's achievements and their integral place in Winnipeg's story.
The NAMI president, Vera Obehi Keyede, reaffirmed the association's commitment to unity, cultural preservation, and youth mentorship across Manitoba. Her address was themed "Rooted in Heritage and Rising with Purpose," and she acknowledged the presence of dignitaries and community leaders at the ceremony. Keyede also recognized Deputy Premier Asagwara, Oba Oyatoye, community elders, and the newly crowned Miss North America World Universal, Jeslyn Abraham.
Oba Oyatoye expressed his gratitude to the mayor, Winnipeg City Council, and the Manitoba government for honouring Nigeria and supporting the Nigerian community. He recalled his previous involvement in advocacy for legislation and community initiatives that helped lay the foundation for the recognition of Nigeria's Independence Day in Manitoba, before ascending the throne in 2024. The monarch's remarks highlighted the significance of the event and the collaborative efforts between the Nigerian community and local authorities.
The ceremony featured a vibrant display of Nigerian culture, including traditional attire, cultural performances, and official greetings. The event culminated in the raising of the Nigerian flag at City Hall, symbolizing independence, national pride, and the recognition of the Nigerian community's contributions to Winnipeg. This celebration served as a testament to the strong bond between Winnipeg and the Nigerian community.
The flag-raising ceremony at Winnipeg City Hall was a historic moment that not only celebrated Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary but also acknowledged the growing influence and positive impact of Nigerians in the city. The event was a significant milestone in the ongoing relationship between Winnipeg and the Nigerian community, highlighting mutual respect, cultural exchange, and community pride.
Key points
- The city of Winnipeg celebrated Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary by raising the Nigerian flag at City Hall.
- The event recognized the growing contributions of Nigerians to Winnipeg's development across various sectors.
- The ceremony featured cultural displays, traditional attire, and musical performances, culminating in the flag-raising ceremony.
