AS NIGERIANS IN GAMBIA CELEBRATE NIGERIA’S 65TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY IN GRAND STYLE.
By Innocent Osuoha.
Despite any perceived differences one might associate Nigerians with here at home, Nigerians in diaspora would always come together to celebrate whenever such opportunities come calling.
On the first of October, 2025, Nigerians in The Gambia under the auspices of Nigerians In Diaspora Organization(NIDO) thronged the Yundum barracks, The Gambia to commemorate the occasion.
The day had broken with a very serene and clement weather as Nigerians in their hundreds converged on the arena with great enthusiasm and patriotism, written all over their faces, for the Nigeria’s Independence anniversary celebration.
Some dignities in attendance were His Excellency Mallam Muhammed Mainasara Usman( Nigerian High Commissioner to The Gambia), His Excellency Dr. Omar Alieu Touray. (President of the commission Economic Community of West African State.)
Others were Her Excellency, Madam Maitta Lilly(French ECOWAS special representative and head of ECOWAS mission Gambia), Col. Ndiagne Diouf (ECONIG force commander). Col. KH Okeniyi(Deputy force commander).
Hon. Great Akah Ottuduoma (President Nigeria Community in The Gambia), His Royal Majesty, Oba Moshood Abolade(The Royal Father of NIDO Gambia) and Lady Nwihim Chizitere(NIDO Brikama Branch Treasurer and also a Journalist) were equally there.
Also present were notable religious leaders, traditional rulers, community leaders, ethic leaders, representatives from Nigeria, leaders of Nigerian organizations in The Gambia as well as the Nigerian troops in The Gambia who showcased their military ties between the two countries.
Speaking, the President, Nigeria Community in The Gambia, Hon Great Akah Attuduoma applauded the Nigeria’s milestone in the area of resources and hard work, which according to him, “had reflected on our journey towards building a strong and vibrant democracy over the years fostering a culture of tolerance, diversity, and inclusivity where people from different ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds coexist peacefully”.
He said Nigeria has established institutions that promote the rule of law emphasizing the significant progress made in the area of electoral processes which has become more robust.
The Diasporan President averred that these achievements are a testament to the resilience and determination of the Nigerian people and asserted that, “although Nigeria has faced challenges, she has always found a way to overcome them through commitment to democratic values.
Also speaking, the French ECOWAS Special Representative and head of ECOWAS Mission, Her Excellency, Madam Maitta Lilly whose speech centered on peace, love, dignity and patriotism urged Nigerians in diaspora to strive to build a nation where every individual can live with dignity.
Madam Lilly observed that respect for diversity has made Nigeria strong because her citizens have always allowed their patriotism reflect in all their actions.
The gathering which started with the Nigeria’s national anthem featured the cutting of the anniversary cake which was decorated with touches of Nigeria’s Green-White-Greencolour, traditional Nigerian music, dance performances, display of cultural attires and tug of war.
About The Author
You may also like
-
NUJ South East Vice President, Adiukwu Bags Chieftaincy Title
-
PDP Stakeholders’ Meeting: Anyanwu Denies Leaving PDP, … Rekindles Hope of Party Members, Empowers Ward, LGA, State Exco with over 150m The National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu has denied rumour that he was leaving the Peoples Democratic Party, assuring party members that he would remain in the party even if everyone leaves. “Do not be deceived, confused or misled by anyone, I am in PDP and will remain in the party until our mandate is achieved. Take note that ADC or APP will never win any election in Imo state and Nigeria at large. Anyone deceiving you or spreading falsehood that PDP is dead is only suffering from schizophrenia” “It’s only in PDP that you can find matured party members, our party is like the old NPP where it regarded human beings. Those who claim to be members and leaders of ruling party are finding it difficult to feed, but in PDP, we are feeding well even when we are not in power” Anyanwu made this declaration on Wednesday while addressing members during the New Year Special Stakeholders meeting at party secretariate, Owerri. Accordingly, Anyanwu, in appreciation of the dedication of party members, stakeholders, ward, LGA and State Exco lavishly rewarded them with gift items valued over 150m tagged; “New Year Unity Gift” Adding further, Senator Anyanwu expressed delight that despite minor internal wrangling that almost derailed the vision of PDP few months ago, party members in the state remained dedicated and steadfast with the party. According to him, the trailer load of over 1000 bags of rice and other items to blend it were not to induce them, but to appreciate are them for working for the party in the state. He reiterated the need for all hands to be on deck towards building a viable and formidable political party in the state, adding that those stagging a gang up against PDP in Imo State and Nigeria do not have what it takes to dislodge the party in any contest. He called on party leaders, critical stakeholders and members across the 305 wards in the state not to be deterred or allow political shenanigans of unstable politicians to distract them from working for the party. In attendance include, the 27 LGA Chairmen, women leaders, youth leaders, State Working Committee, Southeast leaders, former LGA Chairmanship candidates, stakeholders, critical leaders and special citizens, among others. Signed Ikenna Onuoha, Ph.D Advider, Media
-
PRESS RELEASE ADC IM0 STATE RAISES ₦230 MILLION AT MAIDEN STAKEHOLDERS’ SUMMIT IN OWERRI
-
Court Convicts Three for Unlawful Waste Disposal in Owerri
-
ADC Imo Women Close 2025 on a High Note as Hon. Uju Ihejiagwa Hosts Powerful Women Leadership Meeting
