The Nigerian flag was hoisted at Winnipeg City Hall in Canada as government officials and members of the Nigerian community gathered to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.
The ceremony, held on Thursday in Winnipeg, brought together Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham, Manitoba Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Uzoma Asagwara, the Oloro of Oro Kingdom in Kwara State, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye Titiloye Olufayo II, and Nigerian community leaders.
The event also coincided with the 40th anniversary of the Nigerian Association of Manitoba, which has spent four decades supporting Nigerians and promoting Nigerian culture and community activities in the Canadian province.
Gillingham said the flag-raising provided an opportunity to celebrate Nigeria’s independence while recognising the contributions of Nigerians to the development of Winnipeg.
He highlighted the presence of Nigerians in sectors including healthcare, education, business, public service, the arts and faith communities.
The traditional ruler, Oba Oyatoye, urged Nigerians living abroad to remain connected to their cultural heritage, particularly younger Nigerians growing up outside the country.
He said preserving Nigerian traditions should go alongside making positive contributions to the societies where Nigerians live.
The monarch also stressed the importance of stronger engagement between Nigerian community organisations and public institutions to create opportunities for cultural recognition and greater civic participation.
The President of the Nigerian Association of Manitoba, Vera Obehi Keyede, said the ceremony was particularly significant as it marked 40 years of the organisation’s activities in Manitoba.
According to her, the association has focused on strengthening unity among Nigerians, promoting cultural awareness and supporting community development.
Keyede said the group’s theme, “Rooted in Heritage and Rising with Purpose,” reflected its efforts to preserve Nigerian identity while encouraging younger members to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
She added that the association would continue to focus on cultural preservation, youth mentorship and community development.
The event was attended by community elders, members of the Nigerian diaspora and Miss North America World Universal, Jeslyn Abraham.
The ceremony ended with the Nigerian flag flying at Winnipeg City Hall as participants celebrated Nigeria’s independence and the Nigerian community’s longstanding presence in Manitoba.
