Consul-general of Nigeria in New York, Ambassador Abubakar Jidda, has assured that the Nigeria of her people’s dreams is not a distant reality, adding, however, that it requires collective work to achieve.
Jidda also said Nigerians in the diaspora must remain hopeful that Nigeria will become the country they all desired, in spite of the challenges they face at home.
Similarly, 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.
They spoke during an event to celebrate Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary in New York, United States, a statement from the information desk of the Consulate, signed by Mr Tiamiyu Arobani.
The consul had organised a Nigeria Independence Day Parade and Carnival at East 38th to 24th Street and Madison Avenue in the heart of New York. The event united Nigerians from all walks of life and well-wishers to commemorate the Independence celebration.
The event showcased the best of Nigeria’s culture, community spirit and Nigerian-Americans’ contributions to New York and the United States.
The hoisting of the Nigerian Flag in Bowling Green, the world’s financial centre, a gala dinner, a welcome party, and an after-party enriched the week-long event that ended on Sunday morning.
In his speech, Jidda said, “We must remain prayerful and resilient and 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 at home and abroad,” the Nigerian envoy said.
He paid glowing tribute to Nigerians who excelled on the global stage, such as 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.
On the global stage, Jidda said Nigeria had continued to be a pillar of strength on the African continent and beyond, 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” and to celebrate our rich heritage, achievements, and, most importantly, our unity and diversity.
“So let us continue to strive, build, and hope. For as long as we remain united, nothing can stop our great nation’s rise. We are Nigeria, and there is no limit to what we can achieve together,” Jidda admonished.
In his speech, the mayor of New York City, Adams, relished in the memories of his first visit to Africa but pointed out that his experience in Lagos, Nigeria, stood out, saying no city party is like Lagos.
“Years ago, I went to Lagos. I landed one day and did not sleep again three days later. No one doesn’t like Lagos. And I want to be clear: I am American but African.
“When it was challenging to run for office, the African community all over the city came, and you reached out to show the support that was needed. I cannot thank you enough.
“And when I said when I was running that I would be sure that your flag would be raised at Bowling Green, it was never done before.
“But when I became Mayor, your flag and independence were celebrated to acknowledge your contributions and what you have done. I don’t mean for the City of New York but for this entire country.
“The Nigerian community is strong, business-minded, family-minded, and dedicated to the community, so raise the flag, show your strength!”
In her opening remarks, the president of the Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN), Ms Tomi Aregbesola harped on the need for Nigerians all over the world to unite.
Aregbesola, while commending Nigerians, especially in the United States, for their career achievements and contributions to the country, pointed out the great strides of Chinese and Indian Americans, saying Nigerian Americans could achieve more if united.
The OAN leader also challenged the leaders back in the homeland to improve the lives of the common man and redouble their efforts in building a country that genuinely reflected its greatly endowed potential and resources.
The chairman of the Nigeria Independence Day Committee (NIDC), Mr Olayinka DanSalami, said the parade and carnival, which have been celebrated year after year since 1991, were a way to showcase Nigeria to the world.
The NIDC is a coalition of Nigerian cultural, religious, professional, business, and civic groups committed to preserving, presenting and celebrating Nigeria’s rich history and culture.
DanSalami said OAN was founded in 1989 by a group of young concerned Nigerians to challenge and address the serious negative stereotypes of Nigeria and Nigerians in the American media during the 80s and 90s.
The Nigeria Independence Day Parade and Carnival are also held simultaneously in other major U.S. states, such as Texas, Maryland, Georgia, Massachusetts, and New Jersey.
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