Nigeria-Britain Association Celebrates 65 Years of Nigeria’s Independence in London
The Nigeria-Britain Association (N-BA) has hosted a colourful event in London to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, gathering leaders, partners, and guests from both nations to honour their enduring friendship.
In a statement, Babajide Benson, Chairman of the Communications Committee, in a statement on Sunday, said the event reflected the Association’s commitment to fostering dialogue, collaboration, and shared values.
Delivering the welcome address, N-BA President, Mr Sola Oyetayo, described the celebration as “a mark of resilience, unity and progress.”
“We’re not only commemorating independence but celebrating the enduring partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom — a relationship built on shared values and mutual respect,” he said.
He noted that Nigerians in the diaspora serve as “living bridges” between both nations, adding:
“Together, Nigeria and the UK can lead in digital transformation, trade and global cooperation. Our youthful energy meets Britain’s advanced research — and through collaboration, we can shape a shared future.”
N-BA Patron and former Commonwealth Scribe, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, reaffirmed the historical depth of Nigeria-UK relations.
“Relations between Great Britain and Nigeria are special on two levels — governmental and non-governmental,” he said. “At the people’s level, relations are even warmer and more cordial. The N-BA has played a vital role in sustaining this relationship across education, health and professional collaboration.”
Recalling Nigeria’s first independence celebration in 1960, he commended the Association for over five decades of friendship and proposed a toast to “the continued warm and productive relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.”
Representing the Nigeria High Commission, Ambassador Eche Abu OBE praised the Association’s longstanding role:
“For more than five decades, the N-BA has been at the heart of this friendship — creating spaces where people come together, ideas are shared, and futures are shaped.”
Princess Opeyemi Bright, Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, lauded Nigerians’ achievements in the UK.
“Tonight, we celebrate not just independence but the achievements of Nigerians in the diaspora. Let us continue to inspire the next generation and build partnerships that unite our nations,” she said.
Representing NIDCOM Chairperson, Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Ms Ukume Tsumba commended the N-BA’s contributions to diaspora engagement:
“Your work demonstrates patriotism and partnership, harnessing the strength of our diaspora for shared prosperity,” she said.
Corporate partners including Fidbank UK, Dangote Industries, Air Peace, and BK90 Restaurant & Lounge reaffirmed their support.
Fidbank UK CEO, Mr Johnson Ememandu, pledged to strengthen trade and financial cooperation:
“We will redefine service and trade, supporting small and medium industries in both countries.”
Representing Dangote Industries, Mr Radha said:
“Despite challenges, Nigerians remain positive. The Dangote Refinery — the world’s largest single-train refinery — proves Nigeria can achieve great feats.”
Ms Chika Abi, for Air Peace, highlighted the airline’s bridge-building role:
“Our expansion into London represents more than flights — it’s a bridge linking families, businesses and opportunities.”
Mr Kunle Ologun, CEO of BK90 Restaurant, added:
“Our food reflects our heritage, and we’re proud to showcase Nigerian flavours in the UK.”
The evening featured cultural performances and networking among business, diplomatic and creative leaders.
Concluding, Mr Oyetayo said:
“This relationship must never be a boundary but a bridge — a bridge to prosperity, innovation and peace, where Nigeria and the UK thrive side by side.”
