By Mazi Godson Azu
London, 2 October 2026
The celebration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary in London took on a special significance on Friday, 2 October 2026, as FirstBank UK, in collaboration with the Nigeria High Commission in the United Kingdom, hosted a well-organised celebration of Nigeria’s independence, bringing together prominent members of the Nigerian community, diplomats, business leaders, media practitioners and distinguished guests from across the United Kingdom and the wider African diplomatic community.
Amb. Fatou Bensouda ( Gambia High Commissioner to the United Kingdom) and Amb. Aminu Muhammad Dalhatu (Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom) at the 66th Nigeria Independence Celebration hosted by First Bank UK in London
The event was not merely a celebration of Nigeria’s independence; it was also an occasion to recognise the contributions, resilience, leadership and enduring commitment of Nigerians in the diaspora to their communities, their country of origin and the broader aspirations of Africa.
Mazi Godson Azu and Mr. K. O. Adenowo (MD. First Bank UK)
With the full support and participation of the Nigeria High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Ambassador Aminu Dalhatu, alongside diplomatic staff of the High Commission, the gathering reflected the importance of constructive collaboration between Nigerian financial institutions, diplomatic missions and diaspora organisations in strengthening Nigeria’s international relationships and advancing community development.
A notable diplomatic presence was the High Commissioner of The Gambia to the United Kingdom, whose attendance, alongside members of the African diplomatic corps, added a valuable dimension of African solidarity and diplomatic engagement to the occasion.
Dr. Alistair Soyode (MD/CEO, Bentv London and Mazi Godson Azu (Convener, London Political Summit)
A GATHERING OF NIGERIAN LEADERSHIP, EXPERIENCE AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
The celebration attracted an impressive assembly of Nigerian community leaders, past and present representatives of diaspora institutions, professionals, entrepreneurs, media personalities and public figures whose contributions have helped shape the Nigerian presence in the United Kingdom.
Among those in attendance were Chief Bimbo Afolayan, former Chairman of the Central Association of Nigerians in the United Kingdom (CANUK), and Engr. Dr. Boma Douglas, alongside other distinguished leaders associated with Nigerian community affairs and diaspora engagement.
Mazi Godson Azu (Convener, London Political Summit), Mr. Akintemi of News Central, and Juliana Olayinka of Channelstv.
Also present were Chief Ayo Akinfe, Engr. Dr. Illy, Chair CANUK, and Hon. Pastor Niyi Zaccheaus, Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation UK South, whose participation reflected the continuing importance of organised diaspora leadership and representation.
The gathering also welcomed Chief Sir Barr. Chibuzo Ubochi, Chairman of NIDO Europe, alongside my dear friend and brother, Chief Chima Oparaogu, and Elder Chief Oladimeji. Mr. Joel Popoola Chair IoD Africa Group, Mr. Juan of IoD. Mr. nabeel joz of Joz Group, Mr. Bwala Williams of IMO, Nigeria Embassy, Mr. Spera, Mr. Kranka Grupta, Ms. Stella Okuzu RSA. and many others.
Their presence, together with that of numerous other distinguished Nigerians, illustrated the diversity of leadership, professional experience and community involvement represented within the Nigerian diaspora.
The event also provided an opportunity for interaction among established community leaders, emerging voices, professionals and stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of dialogue, institutional cooperation and shared responsibility in sustaining a vibrant Nigerian community in Britain.
MEDIA, PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT AND THE NIGERIAN DIASPORA
The presence of prominent media practitioners further strengthened the occasion, highlighting the important role of journalism, broadcasting and digital media in documenting Nigerian achievements, amplifying diaspora voices and maintaining connections between Nigerians at home and abroad.
Among those present were Dr. Alistair Soyode, Chairman of Ben Television; Mr. Akintemi MD of News Central; and Ms. Juliana Olayinka of Channelstv London Bureau Chief.
Their participation underscored the value of media visibility and responsible public communication in promoting Nigeria’s image, celebrating its achievements and encouraging informed conversations about its future.
Other distinguished guests included, the Worshipful Mayor of London Borough of Islington, Hon. Dr. Jamain Sanyanolu, SA. Lagos State Diaspora Relations Councillor Susan Fajani, Councillor Kate Anolue, Former Double Mayor, and the respected veteran broadcaster Aunty Julie Coker, whose presence added to the rich intergenerational and professional character of the gathering.
The event brought together people from different professional backgrounds, generations and areas of community service, demonstrating the breadth of Nigerian engagement in British public, commercial and civic life.
FIRSTBANK UK: BANKING, PARTNERSHIP AND DIASPORA ENGAGEMENT
Special appreciation goes to the Managing Director of FirstBank UK, Mr. K. O. Adenowo, and his team for hosting an occasion that brought together such a distinguished gathering of Nigerians and friends of Nigeria.
The celebration demonstrated the significance of corporate participation in national commemorations and the potential for financial institutions to contribute to meaningful diaspora engagement beyond conventional banking services.
For Nigerians living and working in the United Kingdom, the relationship between financial institutions, businesses, community organisations and diplomatic missions remains an important part of strengthening economic connections, facilitating investment and supporting sustainable development.
FirstBank’s involvement in the celebration provided an opportunity to acknowledge the enduring relationship between Nigeria and its diaspora, while recognising the value of maintaining institutional partnerships that connect Nigerian enterprise and ambition with international opportunities.
The community award recognition component also gave the celebration an additional purpose: acknowledging individuals whose contributions to leadership, professional excellence and community service merit public appreciation.
THE NIGERIA HIGH COMMISSION AND THE SPIRIT OF DIPLOMATIC COLLABORATION
The active involvement of the Nigeria High Commission, under the leadership of Ambassador Aminu Dalhatu, was an important feature of the celebration.
The collaboration between the High Commission and FirstBank UK illustrated how diplomatic institutions and the private sector can work together to create platforms for national celebration, community recognition and constructive engagement.
Particular appreciation goes to Alhaji Magaji, Head of Chancery, and the entire diplomatic and administrative team of the High Commission for their support and contribution to the occasion.
The presence of the Gambian High Commissioner and other members of the African diplomatic corps also offered a reminder that Nigeria’s independence celebrations have significance beyond its national borders.
Nigeria’s historical, cultural, economic and diplomatic relationships across Africa and the Commonwealth provide a foundation for continued cooperation, mutual understanding and shared progress.
NIGERIA AT 66: REFLECTIONS, PRIDE AND THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE DIASPORA
As Nigeria marks 66 years of independence, the anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on the country’s journey, its national aspirations, its achievements and the continuing responsibilities of its citizens.
For Nigerians in the United Kingdom, independence celebrations are also occasions to reaffirm cultural identity, strengthen community bonds and reflect on the contributions that Nigerians make to their adopted society while maintaining meaningful connections with their homeland.
The Nigerian diaspora represents a broad range of professional expertise, entrepreneurial capacity, cultural influence and international networks. Harnessing these resources through constructive partnerships, responsible leadership, investment and knowledge exchange remains an important consideration for Nigeria’s future.
Equally important is the need to nurture unity across differences, encourage collaboration among diaspora organisations and create opportunities for younger generations to participate in community leadership and national development.
The gathering in London provided a fitting setting for these conversations, bringing together individuals and institutions whose shared interest in Nigeria’s progress transcends professional, regional and generational differences.
A CELEBRATION WORTHY OF NIGERIA’S INDEPENDENCE
Beyond the formal significance of the anniversary, the celebration was an occasion of fellowship, recognition and national pride.
It demonstrated the value of creating spaces where Nigerian institutions, diplomatic representatives, community organisations, business leaders and the media can meet, exchange ideas and acknowledge the contributions of individuals serving their communities.
My sincere appreciation goes to Mr. K. O. Adenowo, Managing Director of FirstBank UK, for the hospitality, organisation and vision behind this memorable celebration; to His Excellency Ambassador Aminu Dalhatu and the Nigeria High Commission for their support; and to Alhaji Magaji, Head of Chancery, and the entire Embassy team for their contributions.
I also extend my appreciation to the distinguished diplomats, community leaders, professionals, media practitioners and all guests whose presence helped make the occasion a meaningful celebration of Nigeria and its people.
As we celebrate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, may the spirit of unity, service, enterprise, responsible leadership and shared national purpose continue to inspire Nigerians at home and across the world.
Happy 66th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria!
God bless Nigeria. God bless the Nigerian diaspora.
