By Raphael Oni (Guangzhou, China)
Nigerians in Guangzhou, China, celebrated the country’s 64th National Day over the weekend with grandeur and pride. The event featured an award ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions to the community.
Ambassador Akinremi Bolaji, Director of Trade, Economic, and Investment at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urged Nigerians living in China to continue promoting Nigeria’s rich culture and to foster peaceful coexistence with their hosts.
In his address, Ambassador Bolaji commended the Nigerian leadership in China for their commitment to uniting Nigerians and fostering a sense of community. He acknowledged the challenges of bringing together individuals from diverse tribes but expressed optimism about the future. “Nigeria has come a long way in 64 years; hope is rising with our new administration’s eight-point agenda,” he stated.
Ambassador Bolaji’s televised message added a special touch to the celebrations, encouraging Nigerians to continue being exemplary ambassadors for their nation. The event was a vibrant cultural showcase, featuring exciting performances, an awards ceremony, and dynamic displays from both Nigerian and Chinese communities. The highlight was the mesmerizing Egungun Eyo and Igbo Masquerade performances, which captivated the audience.
Ambassador Bolaji encouraged Nigerians in China to seize opportunities, especially following President Tinubu’s recent official state visit to China, which aimed to enhance diplomatic relations for a shared future. By working together, Nigerians can build a brighter future for their country and strengthen ties with China. The Nigerian community in Guangzhou turned out in large numbers to celebrate this significant milestone, demonstrating their patriotism and unity. Olarenwaju Oba, President of the Nigerian community, urged his fellow Nigerians to recommit to the country’s progress and development, emphasizing the importance of dedication to Nigeria’s growth.
Similarly, the Nigerian Consul General in Guangzhou, Ambassador George Onwuekwe, encouraged Nigerians to embrace President Tinubu’s 4Ds agenda, focusing on development, infrastructure, economic growth, and social welfare. This call to action resonated with the audience, inspiring them to contribute to Nigeria’s advancement. The Consulate also praised the community’s efforts, stating, “We appreciate the support and cooperation from the Guangzhou government, enabling our citizens to thrive.”
This positive development underscores the growing Nigeria-China partnership, fostering economic growth, cultural exchange, and people-to-people diplomacy.
The celebration highlighted the strong bond between Nigerians living abroad and their homeland, showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and promoting unity among its citizens, regardless of their geographical location.
The 64th Independence Day anniversary celebration in Guangzhou was indeed a memorable event, fostering unity, cultural exchange, and a renewed sense of purpose among Nigerians living in China. The award ceremony honored individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the Nigerian community in Guangzhou, recognizing excellence in various fields, including business, education, and community service.
The event also celebrated Nigerian culture, with traditional music, dance, and cuisine on display, providing a platform for Nigerians to connect with their heritage and share it with the broader community in Guangzhou. The success of the National Day celebration is a testament to the strong sense of community and national pride among Nigerians living abroad. As Nigeria continues to grow and develop, events like these serve as reminders of the country’s potential and the importance of its citizens serving as good ambassadors.
The Nigerian community in Guangzhou is flourishing, with numerous entrepreneurs establishing successful businesses in the city’s vibrant commercial hub. Reports indicate that many Nigerian business owners have integrated seamlessly into Guangzhou’s cosmopolitan environment, contributing significantly to the local economy. Nigerians in Guangzhou exemplify the role of effective ambassadors, demonstrating resilience and cultural richness in their endeavors.
