Brandon Nigerians mark 63rd anniversary of independence
Advertisement
Read this article for free:
or
Already have an account? Log in here »
We need your support!
Local journalism needs your support!
As we navigate through unprecedented times, our journalists are working harder than ever to bring you the latest local updates to keep you safe and informed.
Now, more than ever, we need your support.
Starting at $15.99 plus taxes every four weeks you can access your Brandon Sun online and full access to all content as it appears on our website.
Subscribe Nowor call circulation directly at (204) 727-0527.
Your pledge helps to ensure we provide the news that matters most to your community!
To continue reading, please subscribe:
Add Brandon Sun access to your Free Press subscription for only an additional
$1 for the first 4 weeks*
*Your next subscription payment will increase by $1.00 and you will be charged $20.00 plus GST for four weeks. After four weeks, your payment will increase to $24.00 plus GST every four weeks.
Read unlimited articles for free today:
or
Already have an account? Log in here »
Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 02/10/2023 (791 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The United Nigerians in Brandon Association hosted the 63rd independence anniversary of Nigeria in Brandon on Sunday, marking the maiden edition of this celebration in the city.
The event, which took place at the Knox United Church, had a turnout of about 230 attendees, all adorned in traditional attire proudly displaying the green and white colours of the Nigerian flag.
“I never expected such a large crowd to gather for this event. It’s truly remarkable. We are recovering from the pandemic, and I wish we could have secured a larger hall to accommodate more people within the community,” organizing committee member Hameed Omotoba told the Sun.
Omotoba explained that the UNBA was set up to unite Nigerians, help them with accommodations and jobs, and provide support for their integration into the community. He added that, although the group organizes similar events every Jan. 1, this is the first independence event in Brandon. “It’s a significant milestone, marking the celebration of Nigerian independence here in Brandon for the first time,” he said.
“There are approximately 3,500 Nigerians in Brandon, including students at Brandon University and Assiniboine Community College,” another organizing committee member, Abi Obafemi, told the Sun. “It’s a joyous occasion to celebrate our heroes who fought for this independence. Being independent means we’re no longer under colonization. We’re proud that we’re free from such burdens. Nigeria is 63 years old today, and despite the challenges we face, we want to appreciate our hard-won independence.”
Obafemi was also overwhelmed by the turnout, stating, “I’m over-impressed with the attendance. We had over 230 people at the event, including children, youth, and the elderly. It’s a remarkable turnout, and I’m immensely proud to be Nigerian today. The atmosphere was electric, and it’s evident that Nigerians in Brandon are eager to celebrate their heritage.”
She explained that the independence celebration commenced with a march at Princess Park around 1 p.m., setting the tone for the celebration that would follow at the Knox church. She added that in the hall where the event was held, visitors were treated to a visual feast as traditional Nigerian clothing was prominently displayed on the walls, showcasing the rich and diverse culture of Nigeria.
Omotoba added that the maiden edition of the Nigerian Independence Day celebration in Brandon was not just a commemoration of history but a vibrant display of unity and culture.
The event was a success with the support of the UNBA, City of Brandon, Brandon Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation and Trinity African and European Store among others, Omotoba said.
» aodutola@brandonsun.com
» X: @AbiolaOdutola