Nigerians throughout the US on Saturday turned New York right into a sea of color, music, and patriotism as they celebrated the 2025 Nigeria Independence Day Parade and Carnival.
The occasion introduced collectively 1000’s of Nigerians and pals of Nigeria from throughout the U.S. and past.
The parade procession, which stretched from East thirty eighth Avenue to East twenty fourth Avenue alongside Madison Avenue, shut down the busy midtown hall to site visitors.
It was led by the Organisation for the Development of Nigerians (OAN), in collaboration with the Consulate Common of Nigeria in New York and different accomplice organisations.
Uniformed contingents from the New York Police Division, the New York Metropolis Division of Correction and different diaspora teams marched alongside Nigerian cultural associations, skilled our bodies, non secular organisations and youth teams.
The colourful floats, conventional apparel and dance troupes drew cheers from spectators lining the streets.
Among the many dignitaries in attendance had been the Consul Common of Nigeria in New York, Amb. Abubakar Jidda, UN Deputy Secretary-Common, Ms Amina Mohammed, and the Appearing Ambassador of Nigeria to the U.S., Amb. Samson Itegboje.
Others included Mr Syndoph Endoni, Chargé d’Affaires at Nigeria’s Everlasting Mission to the UN; Mrs Ngozi Adeleke, spouse of the Osun governor; and Amb. Nicholas Ella, a former Everlasting Secretary within the Ministry of Petroleum Sources.
Diplomats and metropolis officers additionally joined the parade from thirty eighth Avenue all the way down to twenty fourth Avenue within the coronary heart of Manhattan – areas that had been closed to vehicular site visitors to accommodate the celebration.
Following the parade, the occasion transitioned right into a full carnival at Madison Sq. Park, that includes electrifying musical performances and cultural shows, together with these by Chinese language dance troupes.
Well-liked Nigerian artist Bella Shmurda headlined the leisure, thrilling the youthful crowd and energising the competition ambiance.
In his remarks, Jidda congratulated Nigerians within the diaspora and recommended the organisers for sustaining the parade and carnival yearly since 1991 with out fail.
“Nigeria stays an important nation, and 65 years of independence is price celebrating despite its challenges,” Jidda mentioned.
“Our individuals are our energy, and Nigerians have been a blessing to the world, notably right here in the US, the place our human sources proceed to excel.
Along with its cultural and leisure worth, the parade strengthens Nigeria’s picture, fosters U.S.-Nigeria ties and promotes the constructive contributions of Nigerians within the diaspora.”
Jidda famous that Nigeria stays the one African nation that hosts a full-scale independence day parade and carnival in New York Metropolis — a practice that has positioned Nigerians as a visual and influential diaspora group.
The President of OAN, Mrs Olutomi Aregbesola, additionally underscored Nigeria’s strategic relevance on the worldwide stage.
“This parade is greater than a celebration; it’s a assertion of who we’re as Nigerians,” she mentioned.
“Our tradition, our resilience and our achievements are price celebrating and showcasing to the world.”
Chairman of the Parade Committee, Mr Olayinka Dan-Salami, praised the resilience of the Nigerian group and appealed for extra sponsorship and help.
“Nigerians have proven 12 months after 12 months that we’re dedicated to lifting this parade larger,” he mentioned.
“With extra help and sponsorship from well-meaning Nigerians and pals of Nigeria, we will take this celebration to the following degree.”
Different audio system recommended the organisers for rising the occasion into the most important African nationwide celebration of its type exterior the continent, selling Nigeria’s picture and strengthening ties with U.S. communities and establishments.
Attendees loved quite a lot of Afrobeat music, style exhibitions, cultural performances, and Nigerian and African delicacies all through the day.
Adeola Adesina, a first-time attendee, described the celebration as “a house away from house” and a strong image of unity and pleasure.
The Information Company of Nigeria (NAN) experiences that the Nigerian flag was earlier hoisted at Bowling Inexperienced, the monetary centre of the world.
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