The Nigerian flag flew proudly at Winnipeg City Hall on October 1 as the Canadian city marked Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary and celebrated the growing contributions of Nigerians to the community.
The historic flag-raising ceremony brought together Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham, President of the Nigerian Association of Manitoba (NAMI), Vera Obehi Keyede, Deputy Premier of Manitoba and Minister of Health, Uzoma Asagwara, Oloro of Oro and Paramount Ruler of Oro Kingdom, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye Titiloye Olufayo II, alongside community leaders and members of the Nigerian diaspora.
Welcoming guests to the ceremony, Mayor Gillingham described Winnipeg’s Nigerian community as “large and growing,” noting that Nigerians had continued to make significant contributions to the development of the city.
He highlighted the impact of Nigerians across several sectors, including business and entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, public service, the arts and faith communities.
“Your contributions can be seen across our city in business and entrepreneurship, education, health care, public service, the arts, faith communities, and so many other areas,” the mayor said.
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Gillingham said the flag-raising was not only an opportunity to celebrate Nigeria’s history, culture and achievements, but also to recognise the important place of Nigerians in Winnipeg’s multicultural identity.
“Today, the Nigerian flag will fly here at City Hall as a symbol of independence and national pride, but also as a recognition of the Nigerian community’s place in the story of Winnipeg,” he said.
The mayor congratulated Nigerians and members of the Nigerian community on the anniversary, commending them for their continued contributions to the city.
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In her remarks, NAMI President Vera Obehi Keyede reaffirmed the association’s commitment to promoting unity, preserving Nigerian culture and mentoring young people across Manitoba.
Speaking under the theme, “Rooted in Heritage and Rising with Purpose,” Keyede acknowledged the dignitaries, community elders and leaders who attended the historic occasion.
Among those recognised at the ceremony were Deputy Premier Uzoma Asagwara, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye Titiloye Olufayo II, community elders and the newly crowned Miss North America World Universal, Jeslyn Abraham.
Also speaking at the event, Oba Oyatoye expressed appreciation to Mayor Gillingham, Winnipeg City Council and the Manitoba government for honouring Nigeria and supporting the Nigerian community.
The traditional ruler recalled his involvement in advocacy and community initiatives before his ascension to the throne in 2024, noting that such efforts helped lay the foundation for the recognition of Nigeria’s Independence Day in Manitoba.
The celebration featured Nigerian traditional attire, cultural displays, official greetings and musical performances, before culminating in the raising of the Nigerian flag at Winnipeg City Hall.
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The ceremony served as a significant display of Nigerian pride and cultural identity, while highlighting the growing role of the Nigerian diaspora in the social, economic and cultural life of Manitoba.
