Nigerians in U.S. set for colourful independence parade, carnival

News Agency of Nigeria

Nigerians in the United States will take to the streets of New York City on Saturday for the 2025 Nigeria Independence Day Parade and Carnival to celebrate their country’s 65th anniversary of independence.

The event is the largest African celebration outside the continent.

Known as the largest celebration of Nigeria outside the homeland, the annual event promotes the positive image and celebrates Nigerians’ contributions to America.

The event, which will kick off at 10:00 a.m. (local time), is being organised by the Nigeria Independence Day Committee, comprised of various Nigerian organisations across the U.S.

According to the organisers, the parade will depart from Madison Square and proceed from East 38th Street to East 24th Street along Madison Avenue.

A carnival atmosphere is expected, featuring food vendors, music, floats, cultural displays, and performances by Nigerian and diaspora artists.

Ahead of the parade, the Nigerian flag will be ceremonially raised on October 1 to officially signal the start of the week-long independence celebrations.

The hoisting of the Nigerian flag in Bowling Green, the financial center of the world, a gala dinner, a welcome party, and an after-party enriched the week-long event, which ended on Sunday morning.

In an earlier address, the Chairman of the Nigeria Independence Day Committee, Olayinka DanSalami, described the event as a long-standing symbol of unity and pride for Nigerians abroad.

He recalled that the parade began in 1991 as part of the Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians’ commitment to “showcase Nigeria to the world”.

It was also intended to counter the negative stereotypes of the country prevalent in American media during the 1980s and 1990s.

“OAN itself was formed in 1989 by young, concerned Nigerians who wanted to tell our story differently,” Mr DanSalami said. “More than three decades later, the parade has become the largest celebration of Nigeria outside the homeland, bringing together people from every background to honour our culture, achievements and contributions.”

The parade has also helped spotlight Nigerian professionals making significant strides globally in medicine, finance, academia, entertainment, and technology.

“We look forward to another successful year of showcasing the very best of Nigeria,” Mr DanSalami said.

This year’s edition is expected to draw thousands of Nigerians, African-Americans, and New Yorkers of diverse backgrounds to witness the sights and sounds of Nigeria on display.

(NAN)