INDIA CELEBRATES A REMARKABLE 74TH REPUBLIC DAY ANNIVERSARY IN NIGERIA

It was a day and time of joy, merriment and proud showcasing of national accomplishments as Indians at home and across the globe celebrated the greatness of a beloved nation. Indeed, Great India, the world largest democracy, over the years has earned for herself a top-place position in international recognition, relevance and respectability through her continued influence and global development agenda, actions and attainments.

Nigeria is a close friend of India with cordial relationship dating back to decades and both nations share many historic things in common including notable celebrations. Hence, it was an atmosphere of elation and expression of joy as Indians in Nigeria joined by their Nigerian and Non-Nigerian friends marked 74years of sovereignty and nationhood sustenance.

The High Commission of India, Abuja celebrated 74th Republic Day of India on 26th January, 2023 at the Chancery premises in presence in the members of Indian community, Nigerian dignitaries, and friends from Media. In addition to Abuja, celebrations were also held at Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt and across Benin and Chad by Indian nationals and local friends. Around 250 people participated in the event.

Celebrations started by unfurling of the National Flag by the High Commissioner of India, G. Balasubramanian, followed by singing of the National Anthem of India. High Commissioner addressed the gathering and read the address of the President of India H.E. Mrs. Droupadi Murmu to the Nation. High Commissioner highlighted the achievements and responsibilities of the Republic of India and how the world looks up to it. Vibrant Cultural performances were presented by the members of Indian community and Nigerians. Culture performances included Bharatnatyam, dance performances by Kids and singing of patriotic songs. Winners of the poetry reciting competition held on 10th January 2023 on the occasion of World Hindi Day’ were also awarded during the celebrations.

On the occasion of the 74th Republic Day of India an official grand reception was organized by the High Commissioner at the Chancery Premises in the evening of 26th January 2023. Hon’ble Minister of Interior H.E. Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Hon’ble Minister of Labour & Employment, Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Sen Chris Ngige, Hon’ble Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, H.E. Chief Henry Ikechukwu Ikoh, Several Ambassadors, local dignitaries, members of the Diplomatic Corps, officers from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other Ministries of Government of Nigeria, representative of prominent business and prominent members of the Indian Community participated in the event. The High Commissioner welcomed the guests and delivered address briefly outlining the importance of the Republic Day and the highlights of India-Nigeria bilateral relations. Rich cuisine of India was offered in the reception that followed. witnessed the cultural performances Indian as well as Nigerian artists.

Similarly, India Consulate General in Lagos left no stone unturned in its Republic Day commemoration. The morning of the event also witnessed the unfurling of the National Flag by the Consul General of India, followed by singing of the National Anthem of India. Consul General Chandramouli Kumar Kern addressed the distinguished guests and read the address of the President of India H.E. Mrs. Droupadi Murmu to the Nation.

The Consulate General also hosted an official reception in the evening at the Lagos Chancery which was conspicuously and beautifully adorned with national colours paraphernalia and various displays of India pride and products. Consul General Kern, his wife Mrs Nita Kern and other top staff warmly welcomed their guests comprising of top government functionaries, diplomats, business tycoons and associates, distinguished members of Indian Community in Lagos, Nigerian friends and the media to the occasion. The evening began with the welcome address by the Consul General who spoke with pride the laudable strides and enviable pursuits of his country among the comity of nations over the years, cultural songs, dance performances, speeches among others were also featured.

The event’s special highlight was the remarks delivered by the special Guest of Honour, H.E. Mr Godwin Obaseki, Executive Governor of Edo State. The Governor, a man of friendliness and oration, during his speech spoke in glowing terms of India’s achievements over the years both on a national and global stage, Nigeria-India Ties, Edo State collaborations with India through its Mission in Nigeria. He further enjoined deeper development cooperation and strategic collaborations between both nations and people.

As expected of Indian events hosting and hospitality, it was an evening of fun, mingling and plenty to eat, drink and gifts to take home.   

Acclaim Nigeria International Magazine was there and covered the event.