Nigeria @ 66: Oloro Of Oro Leads Historic Independence Celebration With Manitoba Deputy Premier, Winnipeg Mayor

Nigerian flag flew proudly at Winnipeg City Hall as civic, government and community leaders joined Nigerians across Manitoba to celebrate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary and the 40th anniversary of the Nigerian Association of Manitoba (NAMI).

The landmark ceremony brought Nigeria’s green-white-green flag into the heart of Winnipeg’s civic space, serving as a powerful recognition of Nigerian heritage, identity and the contributions of the Nigerian community to Manitoba.

Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham joined Manitoba Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, the Honourable Uzoma Asagwara; His Royal Majesty, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye Titiloye Olufayo II (JP), the Oloro of Oro and Paramount Ruler of Oro Kingdom in Kwara State, Nigeria; NAMI President, Mrs. Vera Obehi Keyede; community elders; Miss North America World Universal, Jeslyn Abraham; and members of the Nigerian community for the historic occasion at Winnipeg City Hall.

For Nigerians in Manitoba, the celebration represented more than an Independence Day ceremony. It was a public affirmation of heritage, belonging and the significant contributions Nigerians continue to make to the social, cultural and economic life of the province.

In welcoming participants, Mayor Gillingham acknowledged the contributions of Nigerians across entrepreneurship, healthcare, education, the arts, public service and other sectors, recognising their role in enriching Winnipeg’s cultural and social fabric.

He noted that the raising of the Nigerian flag at City Hall represented a meaningful symbol of national pride and recognition, reflecting the strong cultural ties Nigerians maintain with their homeland while actively contributing to the growth and development of their adopted city.

In his remarks, His Royal Majesty, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye Titiloye Olufayo II (JP), expressed his appreciation to the Mayor, Winnipeg City Council and the Manitoba Government for recognising Nigeria and honouring the Nigerian diaspora community.

The Paramount Ruler of Oro Kingdom used the occasion to reflect on the importance of cultural preservation, international engagement and community advocacy in strengthening the visibility and recognition of Nigerians abroad.

Oba Oyatoye recalled his involvement, prior to ascending the throne of his ancestors in 2024, in advocacy and community initiatives connected to foundational legislation and efforts that contributed to the environment in which the historic recognition being celebrated could take place.

The monarch emphasised the importance of preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural identity and ensuring that younger generations of Nigerians growing up abroad remain connected to their heritage, traditions and ancestral roots.

He also highlighted the value of collaboration between community organisations and public institutions in creating opportunities for cultural recognition, civic participation and constructive engagement.

Speaking during the ceremony, NAMI President, Mrs. Vera Obehi Keyede, described the occasion as particularly significant as the association marks four decades of promoting unity, cultural awareness and community development among Nigerians in Manitoba.

Reflecting on the theme, “Rooted in Heritage and Rising with Purpose,” Keyede reaffirmed NAMI’s commitment to cultural preservation, youth mentorship, community development and strengthening bonds among Nigerians across the province.

She also acknowledged the dignitaries, community leaders and elders whose presence, she said, demonstrated the importance of collaboration in preserving Nigerian heritage and creating meaningful opportunities for future generations.

The flag-raising ceremony ultimately stood as a celebration of Nigeria’s journey since independence, the resilience and achievements of Nigerians in Manitoba, and the growing relationship between the Nigerian community and the wider Manitoba society.