Nigerians in the United States on Saturday turned the streets of New York into a spectacle of colour, music, and patriotism as they marked the 2025 Nigeria Independence Day Parade and Carnival.
The event attracted thousands of Nigerians and friends of Nigeria from across the U.S. and other countries.
The parade, which moved from East 38th Street to East 24th Street along Madison Avenue, brought traffic to a halt in midtown Manhattan. It was organised by the Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians in collaboration with the Consulate General of Nigeria in New York and other partner organisations.
Uniformed contingents from the New York Police Department, the Department of Correction, and other diaspora associations joined various Nigerian cultural groups, religious bodies, and youth organisations in the parade. The streets came alive with colourful floats, traditional attires, and dance performances that thrilled spectators.
Dignitaries in attendance included Nigeria’s Consul General in New York, Amb. Abubakar Jidda; UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed; and Acting Ambassador of Nigeria to the U.S., Amb. Samson Itegboje. Also present were Mr Syndoph Endoni, Mrs Ngozi Adeleke, and Amb. Nicholas Ella, among others.
Following the parade, the celebration continued at Madison Square Park, featuring live performances, cultural showcases, and vibrant displays from both Nigerian and international troupes. Popular artist Bella Shmurda headlined the entertainment, exciting the crowd with energetic performances.
In his remarks, Jidda congratulated Nigerians in the diaspora for sustaining the annual parade since 1991, describing it as a symbol of unity and resilience. “Nigeria remains a great nation, and 65 years of independence is worth celebrating in spite of its challenges,” he said.
He added that the event enhances Nigeria’s global image and reinforces U.S.-Nigeria relations. “Our people are our strength, and Nigerians have been a blessing to the world, particularly here in the United States, where our human resources continue to excel,” he noted.
President of OAN, Mrs Olutomi Aregbesola, said the parade symbolised the strength and resilience of Nigerians. “This parade is more than a celebration; it is a statement of who we are as Nigerians,” she said.
Chairman of the Parade Committee, Mr Olayinka Dan-Salami, urged more Nigerians and corporate bodies to support the event. “Nigerians have shown year after year that we are committed to lifting this parade higher,” he said.
The celebration, which featured Afrobeat music, fashion displays, and a taste of Nigerian cuisine, ended with the hoisting of the Nigerian flag at Bowling Green, symbolising unity, pride, and cultural strength.
