Freedom is a providential gift to mankind; it’s an important endowment that brings along with it happiness, harmony, growth and pursuits of progress. Free countries of the world understand this divine presentation and continues to utilize it for citizenry liberties, well-beings and national improvements. No nation can optimally thrive and fulfils its development obligations in captivity, oppression, depravity and destruction. The race and right to be free in all aspect of human existence and enjoy the freedom unhindered is a fundamental right that must not only be vigorously pursued but also protected at all times. Every man and country should be completely free from every and any anti-advancement, authoritarian and absolutism dominations irrespective of where they are springing from.
Consul General Favier during his opening remarks
Salute therefore to persons, organisations and countries at the frontiers of freedom for all, and one of such freedom fighters is France. France over the years has become a renowned champion of global freedoms, a respected practitioner and promoter of peoples’ liberty and territorial sovereignty. Nonetheless, its envied status earned and treasured across the world didn’t come without its struggles. It was won with sweats and supreme sacrifices of men and women who determined to be free at all costs and went all-out for it making the story is sweet today.
The July 14th Bastille Day orchestrations and perpetrations by true patriots of France ended the era of captivity and oppression and gave rise to the emergence of a new country that anchors and breaths on LIBERTY, EQUALITY AND FRATERNITY: the principle and practice upon which France stands and soars globally.
Barr ‘Salu-Hundeyin delivering her goodwill message
Bastille Day, a happy ending and now a commemorative event, banished tyranny and captivity and has become the symbol of human rights, an historical legacy, a reference point of democracy, national unity, global cultural significance and the establishment of a Forward and Forever France. And, it is therefore marked with joy, pride, and reflection on the values that shapes France and its people. On Bastille Day every year, the French celebrate with military parades, fireworks, patriotic music, traditional food and drinks, commemorative costumes and ceremonies at the country’s capital.
This celebration not only takes place across the length and breadth of France, but also in nations where France has friendly diplomatic ties with. Therefore, it was no surprise when the French mission in Lagos rolled out the drums to celebrate this year Bastille Day in Nigeria.
Cross-section of guests
It is also pertinent to note that France is one of Nigeria’s oldest allies since independence, she holds a cherished place in Nigerian hearts. Both sovereignties enduring relationship is built upon the shared values of democracy, human rights, and freedom. And, together, the two lands rally together for a global good and greater growth pursuits..
As Nigeria and France traverse the challenges of the 21st century, the partnership remains robust, resilient and diverse. Nigeria appreciate France efforts in her growth interests and the European giant commitments in addressing global issues such as climatic change, immigration problems, poverty, democracy challenge, wars, health issues amongst many and these endeavours have continued to expand their collaboration and onward friendship.
Therefore, give it to the host, Consul General Laurent Favier and his wonderful team at the Consulate General of France in Lagos for organising a spectacular event that will linger in memories of many for a long time. While this shouldn’t come as a surprise to many as the French Friendliness is a national asset, the current Consul General took this ‘French Pride’ to another level of applause through the National Day (Bastille Day) celebration in Lagos, the first since his assuming office in the county and a first record that leaves many to beat.
ANIM with China Consul General in Lagos Yan Yuqing
Building on the successes of his predecessors on hosting of similar events in the past, Consul General Laurent Favier has further demonstrated that when it comes to appreciating a country, applauding friends of his country, treating guests to a nice time of enjoyment and comfort and earning the deserved honour for a diplomatic mission in the country, he is a major force to be reckoned with.
‘’The 13th of July, 2024 was a remarkable day as all roads led to Lycée Louis Pasteur, located on Younis Bashorun Street, VI, Lagos the venue of the evening occasion. The ambience was enthusiastic, the red carpets were majestic, the greeters were pleasant and beaming with smiles and the interior décor speaks of a reception per excellence.
The guests trooped out from all corners of society: government, diplomatic, CSO, business, media circles amongst other to come and celebrate with a country and Consul General. It was a proud feeling for the chief host and his team seeing friends of France gathered to celebrate with them. The event began with the singing of both nations national anthems, the MC of the event Mr. Moses Umoru, Director General, Franco-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce and Industry, FNCCI, did a wonderful job in anchoring the day’s programme.
Mr. Favier who gave his welcome remarks (both in English and French), highlighted on the significance of the Bastille Day and its impact on France and global developments; the laudable efforts of his country under the salutary leadership of His Excellency, President Emmanuel Macron; France preparedness and welcoming posture on the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics Games, the Consulate General ongoing efforts growth in the country; and his leadership assurances of deepening the France-Nigeria relations amidst its numerous benefits.
ANIM crew with BDHC Mr Jonny Baxter and US Consul General, Mr Will Stevens
Thereafter, elegant and graceful Barr. (Mrs) Abimbola Salu Hundeyin, Secretary To The Lagos State Government, who represented Mr. Governor, spoke on the progressive and profitable synergy that has existed between Lagos State and France. Stressing Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to bolstering the relationship, the SSG enjoined the continued cordiality between Lagosians and French nationals living, working and visiting Lagos and Nigeria. Importantly also, Lagos No 3 officer, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Right Hon. Mudashiru Obasa and other key government officers were among top dignitaries who grace the auspicious occasion.
It is also proud to state that the diplomatic corps came out en-masse to celebrate one of their own, Honorary Consuls and Consul Generals of Switzerland, Spain, Germany, Italy, USA, British High Commissioner Jonny Baxter, China, India among others were all round.
The distinguished invitees were treated to great French cuisines, drinks and music. It was indeed an evening of merriment, mingling and melody.
Kudos Consul General Favier…Kudos to all Consulate General Staff who made the event a huge success
Long Live France
Best wishes to the people of France for a joyous Bastille Day and a successful year ahead… Vive la France!
Acclaim Nigeria International Magazine (ANIM) was there and covered the event.
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