CREDIT: ESEOGHENE MARY AKPOJIVI
The event began at 10 a.m. with an opening prayer followed by the Canadian and Nigerian anthems and continued until 6 p.m.

Underneath a radiant September sun, the Nigerian community in London, came together to celebrate the 63rd Nigerian Independence Day at Ed Blake Park, under the theme, “Igniting Hope, Embracing Unity.”

The celebration was graced by prominent political figures, Peter Fragiskatos, MP for London North Centre, Arielle Kayabaga, MP for London West, Terence Kernaghan MPP for London North Centre, Lindsay Mathyssen MP for London Fanshawe, as well as City councillors Susan Stevenson and Corrine Rahman. The event also included a special mental health campaign which paid homage to those who have passed on, observing a moment of silence in remembrance of loved ones with a special tribute to MOHBAD, a Nigerian music celebrity. This solemn tribute was a reminder of the sacrifices made and the shared history that binds the Nigerian community together.

The event began at 10 a.m. with an opening prayer followed by the Canadian and Nigerian anthems and continued until 6 p.m. Ed Blake Park was transformed into a bustling cultural hub, as Nigerians and friends alike gathered to commemorate the nation’s independence, reflecting the nation’s diverse traditional attire, music, and dance. A wide array of delicious Nigerian cuisine filled the park, demonstrating the rich cultural heritage of the country.


“The Nigerian community has found a place in London, and they’re contributing. They either own a business or they’re working. The Nigerian community is a huge benefit to the country and the city,” Fragiskatos said.

Fragiskatos acknowledged that his office has supported the community in the past with questions surrounding immigration assistance, stating that his office will continue to offer assistance to anyone who reaches out to his office.

The celebration carried an important message with a special focus on mental health. A dedicated campaign aimed at raising awareness and fostering dialogue about mental health issues within the Nigerian community was launched. The initiative was welcomed with open arms, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health concerns in all communities.

The President of the Nigerian Association of London and Area (NALA), Yemi Awojide, welcomed guests and delivered an impassioned speech that resonated with the attendees while also observing that it was also the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. He spoke about the accomplishments of the Nigerian community in London including securing a grant for kids’ volleyball, webinars for new immigrants, the food bank and tax filing for members of the community.

Awojide pushed for more government support to the community, making emphasis on the challenges of securing accommodation in the city, asking that more housing structures should be built within and outside the city. He spoke about the significance of unity, hope, and the Nigerian spirit.

Prior to the event, a flag-raising ceremony was held at London City Hall on Sept. 29, symbolizing the start of the celebration. Later in the evening, a spirited convoy parade took place, further showcasing the Nigerian culture and unity.

Remi Manty, social secretary of NALA said, “It has taken lots of efforts to have the event playing out right now. We’re here to celebrate our culture and heritage at 63.”

Manty added that it was an opportunity for many to display their businesses, with over 8,300 people in attendance. Manty said that they were able to collaborate with local businesses through a WhatsApp platform requesting their need for business owners and upcoming artists who were interested in showing off their businesses at the event.

“Events as this unify us and reminds us of our origin and the need to continue working together, in unity we can achieve a lot more,” Patrick Dinneya, general secretary of NALA.

Nigerian Independence Day, which commemorates Nigeria’s liberation from colonial rule, holds deep historical significance. It represents the resilience and determination of the Nigerian people to shape their own destiny. The Nigerian community in London, plays an integral role in the multicultural fabric of the region. Their contributions span various fields, including business, education, healthcare, and the arts, enriching the community they call home.

Awojide said that one purpose of the event was to bring Nigerians together to celebrate diversity and unity, an avenue for new immigrant to collaborate with the older ones.

“We’re trying to make our presence known so we can see more collaboration with governments and politicians, alongside connecting the dots for our people in the community.”