New York:New York City: Mayor Zohran Mamdani celebrated Nigeria’s global cultural influence during the country’s 66th Independence Day Carnival, attended by Nigerian diplomats, community leaders, and residents.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mamdani highlighted Nigeria’s significant contribution to New York’s success, acknowledging the cultural ties shared between the city and the Nigerian community. The mayor expressed his enthusiasm for attending the event, stating humorously that he wanted to avoid any “wahala,” a Nigerian term for trouble, by being present.
Mamdani praised Nigeria’s cultural impact across Africa and globally, recalling his own upbringing listening to Nigerian music. He expressed excitement about the performances by Nigerian artists, mentioning Runtown and Patoranking’s “My Woman, My Everything,” which resonated with the crowd.
The mayor emphasized Nigeria’s unique cultural position for Africans both on the continent and in the diaspora. He noted the influence of Nigerian food, music, and football, highlighting their integration into global culture. Mamdani cited U.S. footballer Folarin Balogun, of Nigerian descent, as an example of this contribution.
Nigeria’s Consul-General in New York, Amb. Abubakar Jidda, congratulated Nigerians on the anniversary and commended their achievements in various fields in the U.S. He urged them to continue contributing to national development and promoting peace and unity.
Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Amb. Jimoh Ibrahim, reiterated the importance of unity and progress, recognizing the diaspora’s role in Nigeria’s global influence. He described Nigeria’s renewed diplomatic presence as engaged and respected on the world stage, driven by its exceptional citizens.