New York Mayor Praises Nigeria’s Cultural Impact During Independence Celebration
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has praised Nigeria’s influence on global culture, describing Nigerians in New York as an important part of the city’s identity and success.
Mamdani made the remarks during Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day Carnival in New York, which brought together Nigerian diplomats, community representatives and members of the Nigerian community to mark the country’s independence anniversary.
The mayor, who was born in Kampala, Uganda, received an enthusiastic response from attendees as he spoke about his connection to Nigerian culture and explained his decision to attend the celebration.
He joked that when he was asked whether he would attend the parade, his response was that he did not want any “wahala” and therefore had to show up.
Mamdani reflected on growing up with Nigerian music and said he was particularly excited about the appearance of Nigerian artistes at the event. He also recalled the cultural connection between Lagos and Kampala.
According to him, Nigeria has become a major source of cultural identity for Africans both on the continent and in the diaspora.
He pointed to Nigerian cuisine, music and football as examples of the country’s influence, noting that elements of Nigerian culture have become familiar to people around the world.
The mayor also highlighted Nigerian-Americans and people of Nigerian heritage who have made significant contributions to American society. He mentioned footballer Folarin Balogun, who was born in Brooklyn to Nigerian parents, as one example.
Nigeria’s Consul-General in New York, Abubakar Jidda, used the occasion to congratulate Nigerians living across the 20 states covered by the consulate.
Jidda said Independence Day was an opportunity to remember the determination and sacrifices of the people who secured Nigeria’s independence while also considering the country’s future.
He praised Nigerians in the United States for their achievements in fields including medicine, education, business, science and the arts.
The consul-general also encouraged Nigerians abroad to contribute to the country’s development by using their expertise, professional networks, investments and other resources.
He called for greater commitment to peace, unity and national progress.
Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, similarly urged Nigerians to see the anniversary as a reminder of their responsibility to contribute to nation-building.
Ibrahim said Nigeria’s reputation internationally was closely connected to the achievements of its citizens and described the country’s engagement at the United Nations as increasingly active and influential.
He also emphasised the importance of the Nigerian diaspora, describing professionals, entrepreneurs, academics, innovators and community leaders abroad as valuable contributors to the country’s global presence.
The celebration therefore served not only as a commemoration of Nigeria’s independence but also as a recognition of the growing cultural and professional influence of Nigerians in the United States and around the world.
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