From left Chairman Osaro, Nigerian
Ambassador Ibiyemi Ajiboye-
Roberts and Chairman Dr. Akeem Badmu
Locals celebrate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day
THE Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation Ireland, in collaboration with the Nigerian Embassy Dublin, celebrated Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day, with over 120 people from around South Dublin joining together to mark the momentous occasion.
The Red Cow Inn welcomed Her Excellency, Ambassador Ibiyemi Aisha Ajiboye-Roberts, who played Chief Host for the day and sponsored 20 members of the Embassy staff to attend the celebration.
A special moment from the day came when the Ambassador-Designate of the Embassy of Nigeria, His Excellency Onueze C. J. Okocha, made a surprise appearance and graced the occasion unexpectedly.
He shared a goodwill message, “United We Stand”, which was read by Her Excellency the Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, Amb. Ibiyemi Aisha Ajiboye.
The event brought together new and old friends who rejoiced in happiness and laughter on a day that means so much to so many.
Dr Yemi Ojo shared the importance of events such as these in recognition of cultural pride and togetherness and was grateful for everyone who showed up to celebrate, including Mayor Francis Timmons, who shared his support and showed “love for people and togetherness.”
The list of distinguished guests included the Ambassador of Sierra Leone to Ireland, Amb. Desmond Babatunde Edwards, Ireland’s first black mayor, Mayor of Portlaoise, Hon. Rotimi Adebari and Cllr. Yemi Adenuga, who attended with her entourage.
The NIDO youth actively participated in the event, including Hope, Tumi, Stephanie, Irene, Grace, Prince Pius, and Teni, as well as the Afrostars Cultural Dancers, who made “valuable contributions through their various presentations, demonstrating their talents, enthusiasm, and commitment to preserving Nigerian culture and identity while living in Ireland.”
Dr Yemi Ojo spoke about the sense of pride in sharing a room with an eclectic mix of Nigerian diaspora, saying:
“The presence of these distinguished guests added prestige to the occasion and demonstrated the importance of the event as an opportunity to celebrate Nigeria’s independence while promoting friendship and stronger community relationships among Nigerians in the diaspora.”
She reiterated her thanks to everyone who participated in the event and made it such a successful day, saying: “On behalf of the Organising Committee, I wish to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this historic occasion.
“A special thanks to the lady behind the reconciliation process – Her Excellency the Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, Amb. Ibiyemi Aisha Ajiboye,” who received an Excellence Award from Mayor Francis Timmons, on behalf of the NIDOE-Ireland Chapter Reconciliation and Unification Team, which was “well deserved.”
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
