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Nigerians In U.S. Set For Colourful Independence Parade, Carnival On Saturday

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Nigerians In U.S. Set For Colourful Independence Parade, Carnival On Saturday

Nigerians in United States will storm the streets of New York City on Oct. 4, for the annual Nigeria Independence Day Parade and Carnival in commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary.

Correspondents report that the event is the largest African celebration outside the continent.

Known as the largest celebration of Nigeria outside the homeland, the annual event promotes the positive image and celebrates Nigerians’ contributions to America.

Some participants at the 2024 Nigeria Independence Day Parade and Carnival being entertained by KCEE at Madison Square Park in New York
The event, which will kick off at 10 a.m. (local time), is being organised by the Nigeria Independence Day Committee (NIDC) comprised of various Nigerian organisations across the U.S.

According to the organisers, the parade will take off at Madison Square and move from East 38th Street to East 24th Street along Madison Avenue.

A carnival atmosphere is expected, featuring food vendors, music, floats, cultural displays and performances by Nigerian and diaspora artists.

Ahead of the parade, the Nigerian flag will be ceremonially raised on Wednesday, Oct. 1 to officially signal the start of the week-long independence celebrations.

 

The hoisting of the Nigerian flag in Bowling Green, the financial centre of the world, a gala dinner, a welcome party and an after party enriched the week-long event that ended on Sunday morning.

In an earlier address, the Chairman of the Nigeria Independence Day Committee (NIDC), Mr Olayinka DanSalami, described the event as a long-standing symbol of unity and pride for Nigerians abroad.

He recalled that the parade began in 1991 as part of the Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN)’s commitment to “showcase Nigeria to the world”.

It was also to counter negative stereotypes of the country prevalent in American media in the 1980s and 1990s.

“OAN itself was formed in 1989 by young, concerned Nigerians who wanted to tell our story differently,” DanSalami said.

“More than three decades later, the parade has become the largest celebration of Nigeria outside the homeland, bringing together people from every background to honour our culture, achievements and contributions.”

The parade has also helped spotlight Nigerian professionals making global strides in medicine, finance, academia, entertainment and technology.

“We look forward to another successful year of showcasing the very best of Nigeria,” DanSalami said.

This year’s edition is expected to draw thousands of Nigerians, African-Americans and New Yorkers of diverse backgrounds to witness the sights and sounds of Nigeria on display.

Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams addressing Nigerians flanked by the Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, Amb. Abubakar Jidda at the 2024 Nigeria Independence Day Parade and Carnival, New York
The Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, Amb. Abubakar Jidda, has reaffirmed the mission’s support for the celebration, describing it as “a proud tradition that reflects the resilience, creativity and spirit of our people in the diaspora.”

Jidda said the parade not only strengthens communal bonds but also promotes Nigeria’s image globally.

“From our music and fashion to our entrepreneurship and professional excellence, Nigerians continue to shine abroad,” Jidda noted in a previous message to the community.

“This parade is a reminder of who we are, what we represent and the brighter future we are building together.”

Organisers say this year’s celebration will feature Afrobeats performances, cultural troupes and community groups highlighting Nigeria’s diversity across its regions and ethnicities.

Vendors will also serve popular dishes and snacks while showcasing African-inspired fashion, crafts and merchandise.

Local residents and visitors will have an opportunity to engage with the Nigerian-American community, known to be one of the most educated and entrepreneurial immigrant populations in the United States.

For many participants, the Independence Parade and Carnival serve as both a national commemoration and a bridge between home and diaspora identity.

The event has also served as a diplomatic and cultural platform, drawing dignitaries, state officials and celebrities over the years.

Past editions have hosted city officials, members of the U.S. Congress, entertainers, and business leaders, alongside a cross-section of Nigerian professionals, students, church groups and associations.

New York Mayor Eric Adams, who participated in previous editions, has praised the contributions of Nigerians to the city’s development, describing them as “family-oriented, community-focused and culturally vibrant.”

Army Makes Major Breakthrough in Fight Against Boko Haram, ISWAP Terrorists … Soldier, Police Officer Informants Nabbed

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Army Makes Major Breakthrough in Fight Against Boko Haram, ISWAP Terrorists … Soldier, Police Officer Informants Nabbed

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have apprehended a serving soldier and a police officer for alleged involvement in smuggling arms and logistics to Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in the North East.

A credible source at Army Headquarters told agency reporters that the suspects were apprehended between September 26 and September 28 in intelligence led operations.

The source said the troops on internal security operations, had on Sept. 26, intercepted suspicious movement of military-grade ammunition along a known terror supply route in Borno.

He said the surveillance led to a sting operation on Sept. 27, during which the suspects were caught with rifles, ammunition and communication devices.

He added that the preliminary investigation confirmed their alleged links to a wider supply network now under close watch.

According to him, the duo are in military custody for interrogation and will face disciplinary measures before being handed over for prosecution.

The source said the arrests marked a decisive step in dismantling insider collusion and disrupting terror logistics chains.

He stressed army’s determination to rid the service of bad eggs and sustain public confidence in ongoing counter-terrorism operations.

The source added that troops also apprehended a suspected Boko Haram collaborator, in Baga area of Borno.

He said the troops intercepted three motorcycles ferrying 32 Jerry cans of petrol at Kasuwan Dere, Mubi South Local Government Area of Adamawa.

In the North West, the source said the troops of 17 Brigade nabbed a suspected terrorist logistics supplier and an informant in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina.

According to him, preliminary investigation linked the suspects to an arms dealer with ties to an operative codenamed Babaru.

“Another suspect escaped after scaling a fence as troops closed in, while several kidnap victims were rescued in other theatres,” he said.

INEC Disputes Claims Of Public Distrust In Electoral Process

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INEC Disputes Claims Of Public Distrust In Electoral Process

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that the high level of participation by Nigerians, especially the youths, in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), shows that citizens still had confidence in the process.

Reacting to recent claims suggesting that Nigerians had lost confidence in the country’s electoral system, the Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman, Mr Rotimi Oyekanmi told newsmen that the assertions were baseless and unsupported by facts.

Oyekanmi said that the CVR, which began on Aug. 18 with online pre-registration, shows that citizens still had confidence in the process.

”The CVR portal went live at 8:30 am on Aug. 18 and by 3:30 pm, seven hours later the same day, 69,376 Nigerians had pre-registered, comprising 33,803 males (48.7 per cent) and 35,573 females (51.3 per cent).

“By Aug. 24, just a week later, a total of 1,379,342 had pre-registered online. If the Commission had allowed the CVR to be completed online, that figure would have subsisted.

“However, all those who pre-registered online must complete their registration by physically appearing at their preferred designated centre to have their biometrics and other details captured, in compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, specifically Sections 9(7) and 10(2).

“By Sept. 1, two weeks after the online pre-registration began, 2,532,062 Nigerians had registered online,” he said.

Oyekanmi added that within one week of the in-person registration starting on Aug. 25, a total of 72,274 citizens had either completed their online pre-registration or registered in person.

He said that by week five, on Sept. 21, since the commencement of online pre-registration, a staggering 5,385,060 Nigerians had uploaded their details to the CVR portal.

”In the same manner, by week 4 on Sept. 19, since the in-person registration began, 399,162 pre-registrants had completed the process, while 365,533 Nigerians registered physically, totalling 764,695 Nigerians that had completed the registration process in just one month.

“There is no African country with these types of voter registration figures within one month,” he said.

Beyond the CVR figures, Oyekanmi said that the recent elections, particularly the 2023 general election, demonstrated significant improvements in the country’s electoral system.

He said that the election produced the most diverse National Assembly since the restoration of democracy in 1999, with multiple parties securing seats across various levels of government

“In the Senate, seven political parties won varying numbers of seats, comprising APC-59 seats, PDP-36, LP-8, NNPP-2, SDP-2, APGA and YPP -one each.

‘Similarly, eight political parties won seats in the House of Representatives. They include APC-177, PDP-117, LP-35, NNPP-19, APGA-five, ADC, SDP and YPP- two each

“For the Governorship elections, APC won 16 States, PDP-10, LP and NNPP- one each.

“In fact, nine political parties won seats in the State Assemblies. They include APC-533, PDP-355, LP-38, NNPP-29, APGA-20, YPP-8, SDP-7, Accord and ADC -one each,” he said.

Oyekanmi said that the recent bye-elections also show that Nigerians had kept faith with the electoral process.

“Ironically, some of the most ardent critics of INEC are also in the forefront of calling for electoral reform to transfer local government elections to the same commission.

“Surely, they cannot continue to walk on both sides of the road,” Oyekanmi said.

Biotechnology Agency Assures Nigerians On GMOs Safety

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Biotechnology Agency Assures Nigerians On GMOs Safety

The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) has assured Nigerians of the health safety of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO).

The Director-General of NBRDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, disclosed this in a statement by Mrs Toyin Omozuwa, the agency’s spokesperson, on Monday in Abuja.

Mustapha gave the assurance against the backdrop of ongoing debates and conversations around GMOs, which he described as based on general misinformation.

According to Mustapha, the agency remains committed to bridging the gap of ignorance through evidence-based engagement, sensitisation, and research-driven advocacy.

Mustapha added that the agency’s core mandate is to promote and conduct innovative research in agriculture, health, industry, the environment, and in other strategic sectors based on commitment to humanity.

“Our top priority is the well-being of Nigerians. We will never compromise public health or safety in the pursuit of innovation,” Mustapha said.

He said GMOs were globally recognised as safe for human health and the environment.

According to him, GMO approval in Nigeria is subject to strict biosafety regulation by the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA).

“It is important for Nigerians to know that GMOs are safe. Around the world, they have been researched for decades, regulated by rigorous international standards, and tested extensively.

“Here in Nigeria, no GMO product enters circulation without the full approval of the NBMA, which subjects every product to thorough risk assessments,” the D-G said.

Mustapha said that the NBRDA has intensified efforts to sensitise and engage stakeholders including farmers, policymakers, scientists, youth, and civil society about biotechnology.

He said that through training programmes, community outreach, open forums, and field demonstrations, the agency was re-building public confidence and countering misinformation with facts.

Court Halts Utomi’s Shadow Government Plans … Says Action Unlawful, Illegal

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Court Halts Utomi’s Shadow Government Plans … Says Action Unlawful, Illegal

Court Halts Utomi’s Shadow Government Plans
… Says Action Unlawful, Illegal

The plan by a former presidential candidate, Prof. Pat Utomi to establish a shadow government in Nigeria has received a major set back.

This is as Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday declared illegal, unlawful, and unconstitutional the plan to establish a shadow government in Nigeria.

The judge on issued an order restraining Utomi and his associates from proceeding with their plan to establish a shadow government/cabinet in the country.

Justice Omotosho issued the order while delivering judgment on a suit filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) against Utomi.

The judge ruled that the concept of a shadow government/cabinet was unconstitutional and an alien concept to the nation’s presidential system of government.

The judge held that Utomi and his associates cannot hide under the rights of association and to criticise the government to engage in unlawful aactivities.

Justice Omotosho commended the plaintiff for filing the suit and held, among others, that it was within the right of the DSS to take steps to prevent acts capable of threatening the nation’s internal security.

NASRDA Urges Schools To Prepare Students For Space Science, Technology

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NASRDA Urges Schools To Prepare Students For Space Science, Technology

The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has called on schools administrators nationwide, to leverage space education programmes to prepare students for careers in space science and technology.

Dr Matthew Adepoju, Director-General, NASRDA, gave the charge at the second graduation ceremony of the Pathway to Space Programme.

The programme was organised by Future African Space Explorers STEM Academy (FASESA), Lugbe, Abuja.

Adepoju, represented by Mrs Olayinka Fagbero, an Assistant Director in the agency, said that the initiative was designed to catch the students young, by creating awareness and stimulating interest in space education, among African students.

The programme which was organised physically and virtually, had participants from Ethiopia, Kenya, and Nigeria.

Adepoju revealed that beginning from the third edition of the programme, NASRDA would coordinate the participation of Nigerian students in the event.

According to him, the space agency is going to be sending invitations to schools to join the programme because it is very much interested in getting young people to embrace space science and technology.

”This is an opportunity for us to get them to be part of a programme that is designed to shape their career path.

”In the next cohort coming up in 2026, we are hoping to have as many schools as possible because it is something that is open and free.”

Speaking in her capacity as FASESA Country Coordinator, Fagbero said the programme had an increase of about 400 students compared to 70 in 2024.

Sh explained that participation in the programme only required internet connectivity and a device, adding that in view of this FASESA tagets thousands of students across the country.

She expressed hope that more schools across the country would join the programme to build a strong community of future African scientists and space explorers.

Similarly, Mr Sean Jacobs, Executive Director, FASESA, said the initiative was aimed at integrating space exploration into African classrooms to prepare young learners for careers in the global space sector.

According to him, FASESA, through partnerships with global aerospace companies like Boeing and stakeholders such as NASRDA, is providing resources and facilities to assist students in understanding space and its career opportunities.

”We need to make our students understand that space is not only dedicated to being an astronaut, but the impressive development of our space applications.

”We want our students to understand that for them to contribute to global policy making initiative; they need to understand what the space sector is.”

Speaking on his experience with Nigerian students, Jacobs said he was impressed by their intelligence and enthusiasm.

”We have very smart kids in Nigeria, Kenya, and Ethiopia. What they need is a community of support involving government, parents, and schools.

In his remarks, Mr Christopher Akinsowan, Principal of the school, urged the students to leverage the opportunity to widen their scope of career pursuit, adding that space science and technology was interesting.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of certificate of participation to students who participated in the programme

GOV. FUBARA LEADS RIVERS STAKEHOLDERS TO INDEPENDENCE CHURCH SERVICE

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GOV. FUBARA LEADS RIVERS STAKEHOLDERS TO INDEPENDENCE CHURCH SERVICE

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara on Sunday, September 28, 2025 led stakeholders and leaders of the State to a Church Service in commemoration of the 65th Independence Anniversary of the country.

The governor who read the only lesson of the service at the Cathedral of St Paul, Diobu, Port Harcourt, had in his company his wife, Lady Valerie Fubara, the deputy governor, Prof. Mrs. Ngozi Odu, the Chief Judge of Rivers State, His Lordship, Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi and a host of other prominent leaders and stakeholders in the State

Delivering the sermon titled “Good news for Nigeria”, the Most Reverend Dr. Blessing C. Enyinda, Dean, Church of Nigeria noted the significant progress made over the 65 years of attaining independence by the nation, but lamented that despite the enormous resources the neo-colonial attitude of leaders have kept the country underdeveloped.

He said Nigeria is a nation loved by God, with enormous abundant resources and in spite of situations that would have divided the nation including fighting a civil war that lasted for 3 years, the country still remains one indivisible entity.

Drawing from the only lesson of the service read by Gov. Siminalayi Fubara and taken from Isaiah 61 verses 1 to 6, Most Rev’d Enyinda emphasised that the citizens must free themselves from the shackles of self enslavement as only few are enjoying in the midst of abundance while majority of the citizens languish after 65 years.

He opined that God has been good to Nigeria as the “citizens can elect their leaders, and we can rule ourselves” but “where are we at 65? Have we maximized the gains of independence or the God-given resources?.

“Though, we are free from colonial masters, but are we free from ourselves?. We have held ourselves captive and we must have to rescue ourselves from ourselves”, the Cleric noted.

He said God has a better plan for the country and called on all leaders and citizens to repent towards God and it will be well with the nation

Most Rev’d Enyinda used the occasion to welcome back the governor, his deputy and members of the State House of Assembly after a period of rest, which gave them the opportunity to reflect to carry out their responsibility for the benefit of the people, praying that the peace that has returned to the State will be an enduring one.

Female U-20 World Cup Qualifiers: Falconets Spank Rwanda’s She-Amavubi 4– 0 in Ibadan

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Female U-20 World Cup Qualifiers: Falconets Spank Rwanda’s She-Amavubi 4– 0 in Ibadan

Nigeria’s U-20 girls, Falconets, thrashed their visitors, She-Amavubi of Rwanda 4–0 in a 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup second round, second leg qualifying match in Ibadan.

Falconets displayed fantastic football artistry and dominated proceedings since inception to the end of the encounter.

Falconets were in cruise control as Precious Oscar bagged the game opener in the 15th minutes of the game throwing jubilations in the midst of teaming fans who trooped to the stadium to watch the national female football team live.

Fatimoh Adesina converted a sublime free- kick in the 20th minutes to double the lead for the hosts while Janet Akekoromowei consolidated the scoring sheet for falconets in the 64th minute, firing a powerful strike from box line into Rwanda’s net to hand the hosts a comfortable lead.

She-Amavubi would have secured a consolation goal in the 79th minutes but reflex of falconets goalie, Christiana Uzoma, frustrated the Rwanda’s strikers efforts.

Taiwo Afolabi put the icing on falconets victory cake with the fourth goal just at the official regulated time making the match a goal rainy game for the hosts.

 

Speaking during a post- match news conference, Falconets Head Coach, Moses Aduku, commended the fighting spirit of She-Amavubi, noting that the visitor refused to give up, even till the last whistle.

 

He noted that falconets and technical crew carefully watched the tape of the first leg game against She-Amavubi in Kigali and made necessary corrections, particularly in the goal scoring aspect which eventually yielded expected results.

 

Also, the She-Amavubi Head Coach, Andre Cassa-mbungo, said that he came to Nigeria with a game plan to win but his team played against better side.

 

He added that major of players in She-Amavubi team were young players that still up to three to develop themselves before Rwanda could start seen best of them.

 

The victory gave Nigeria 5-0 win over Rwanda on the aggregate, having won the first leg 1-0 in Kigali.

Nigeria will play against the winner in the game between Senegal and Algeria for the third and final round of the qualifiers.

The 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup would be the 12th edition of the tournament scheduled to be hosted by Poland.

Abuja–Kaduna Train Service Resumes Next Week – NRC

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Abuja–Kaduna Train Service Resumes Next Week – NRC

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced that the Abuja–Kaduna passenger train service is set to resume operations next week.

Mr Callistus Unyimadu, Chief Public Relations Officer, NRC said this in a statement in Lagos, yesterday.

Unyimadu stated that the resumption was as a result of the successful completion of repair and safety checks on the affected section of track at Asham.

“The service was temporarily suspended after the unfortunate incident of August 26.

“ Since then, the corporation has worked tirelessly to ensure both the infrastructure and rolling stock are restored to the highest safety standards in line with global best practices,” he said.

Unyimadu pointed out that as part of their commitment to passenger welfare, the NRC had refunded 512 passengers out of the 583 on board the affected train.

He added that efforts were ongoing to reach and process refunds for the remaining passengers to ensure that no one was left behind.

“The NRC appreciates the patience and understanding of its esteemed passengers and assures the public that their safety, comfort, and satisfaction remain our top priority.

“We also acknowledge the invaluable support of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, security agencies, the media, and all stakeholders during this period of recovery.

“Further details on the official resumption date and schedule will be communicated in the coming days,” he said.

World News Day: NGE Reaffirms Commitment To Press Freedom

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World News Day: NGE Reaffirms Commitment To Press Freedom

Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting high standards of editorial leadership and protecting press freedom.

This is contained in a statement jointly signed by the President and General Secretary of the Guide, Eze Anaba and Onuohe Ukeh respectively.

The Guild stated this while commemorating the 2025 World News Day, which is annually held on Sept. 28.

The Guild called for a renewed call to uphold fact-based journalism and defend press freedom.

It saluted Nigerian and international journalists who, in spite of daunting challenges, continue to work tirelessly to provide truthful and accurate information to the public.

“As we celebrate World News Day, we note the challenges journalism as a profession faces in Nigeria, most especially the growing attempt to suppress press freedom and freedom of expression.

“We will always stand firm to defend the rights of journalists, promote high ethical standard in our noble profession and resist any move, in whatever means, to harass and intimidate journalists as well as impede journalism.”

The NGE urged journalists to shun fake news, misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda, while upholding the core principles of accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and truth.

It also called on government at all levels to desist from using repressive laws, including the Cybercrime (Prohibition and Prevention, etc.) Act, to harass media professionals.

“We urge the government to always respect the Freedom of Information Act by freely providing journalists any requested information and, therefore, aligning itself with the United Nations Universal Day for Access to Information.

“We urge Nigerians to choose truth, facts, and journalism, bearing in mind that fact-based journalism is the foundation of a healthy democracy.

“Fact-based journalism provides citizens with accurate and reliable information, enabling them to make informed decisions,” it said.

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