The Oloro of Oro Kingdom and Paramount Ruler of Oro Kingdom in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria, Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye Titiloye Olufayo II (JP), has joined senior Canadian government officials and community leaders to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary in Manitoba, Canada.
The celebration, held at Winnipeg City Hall, also marked the 40th anniversary of the Nigerian Association of Manitoba (NAMI), with the Nigerian national flag raised in a landmark ceremony led by Winnipeg Mayor, Scott Gillingham.
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The raising of Nigeria’s green-white-green flag at Winnipeg City Hall provided a significant public recognition of Nigerian heritage and the contributions of Nigerians to the cultural, social and economic development of Manitoba.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mayor Gillingham acknowledged the contributions of Nigerians across key sectors, including healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, public service and the arts.
He noted that the flag-raising represented a symbol of national pride and recognition for Nigerians in Manitoba, while underscoring the strong cultural ties they maintain with Nigeria and their contributions to the development of Winnipeg.
The Kwara monarch said the occasion demonstrated the importance of cultural preservation, international engagement and community advocacy in promoting the visibility and recognition of Nigerians in the diaspora.
He stressed the need for Nigerians abroad to preserve their cultural identity and ensure that younger generations remain connected to Nigeria’s heritage, traditions and ancestral roots.
Oba Oyatoye also highlighted the importance of collaboration between Nigerian community organisations and public institutions in promoting cultural recognition, civic participation and constructive engagement.
NAMI President, Mrs Keyede, described the anniversary as an opportunity to celebrate the association’s journey while renewing its commitment to the Nigerian community.
She said the theme of the anniversary, “Rooted in Heritage and Rising with Purpose,” reflected NAMI’s focus on cultural preservation, youth mentorship, community development and strengthening bonds among Nigerians across Manitoba.
The celebration ultimately combined Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary with a milestone in the history of the Nigerian community in Manitoba, highlighting both the enduring connection of Nigerians to their homeland and their growing contribution to Canadian society.
The event brought together Manitoba Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Uzoma Asagwara; Mayor Gillingham; Oba Oyatoye; NAMI President, Mrs Vera Obehi Keyede; community elders; Miss North America World Universal, Jeslyn Abraham; and members of the Nigerian community.
