Naija Summer Fair provides mix of culture, colour
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The first-ever Naija Summer Fair brought the vibrant energy of Nigeria to the Riverbank Discovery Centre on Saturday, as hundreds gathered to celebrate culture, community and connection in a landmark event for Brandon’s growing Nigerian population.
Organized by members of the United Nigerians in Brandon Association, the fair featured traditional attire, music, food and dance — all aimed at highlighting the rich heritage of Nigeria and its people now living in Canada, planning committee chair Hosteen Bungon told the Sun.
“This is the first Naija festival of its kind in Brandon, and hopefully, it’s going to become an annual event,” he said. “The Nigerian community in Brandon has grown a lot, and we felt it was time to come together and remind ourselves where we come from and what we represent.”
Isaac Osho (from left), Oreoluwa Agbolade, Nifesimi Agbolade and Esther Osho show excitement in their traditional clothes during the Naija Summer Fair. Organized by members of the United Nigerians in Brandon Association on Saturday evening at Riverbank Discovery Centre. (Abiola Odutola/The Brandon Sun)
The fair served as both a homecoming and a showcase, with traditional dishes, Afrobeat rhythms, cultural displays and family-friendly activities drawing guests from diverse backgrounds. Children danced alongside elders while Nigerian vendors offered handcrafted goods and delicious jollof rice and suya.
“We wanted to showcase the true spirit of Nigeria,” Bungon explained. “We’re ambassadors — not just in Canada, but for Nigeria as a whole. Events like this help us celebrate our identity, our roots and our shared values.”
The organizers originally planned for 500 attendees, but Bungon estimates more than 700 people took part in the festivities.
According to Bungon, the number of Nigerians in Brandon is on the rise, with an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 individuals, including children.
Bungon shared that getting participation and understanding from other cultural groups required effort. However, the support from corporate sponsors and community members helped make the vision a reality.
Nigel Oluwafemi (from left), Muiza Ismail, Habeeb Omotoba and his sister Hadeezah proud to display their Nigerian traditional wears during the Naija Summer Fair on Saturday. (Abiola Odutola/The Brandon Sun)
“We faced some challenges, but we overcame them,” Bungon said. “We had good support from corporate organizations like Scotiabank and BMO, and many individuals also contributed in different ways.”
Bungon also extended heartfelt appreciation to the volunteers whose tireless work helped make the event successful.
“To every volunteer who gave their time, energy, and effort, we say thank you,” he said. “You made this possible.”
» aodutola@brandonsun.com
» X: @AbiolaOdutola
