Ahead of the forthcoming 59th Independence celebration of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Nigeria Community Association (NCA) Rochdale, United Kingdom, have reeled out top notch arrangements aimed at making the day worthy of its cause.
NCA Rochdale, UK as gathered, is one of the leading socio-cultural organisations in the United Kingdom dedicated to the celebration and expansion of the frontiers of the Nigerian Brand; renowned for its legendary and outstanding socio-cultural values and heritage.
According to the Convener, Hon. Mrs Mary Adekugbe, “NCA is an evolution of my personal and professional passion and commitment to the projection of Nigeria’s rich cultural values; with a secondary objective of fostering unity amongst the multi ethnic groups residing in the United Kingdom”.
“Interestingly, given my professional antecedents, it initially started with an idea of ‘Nigerians in Rochdale’ Communal perspective but the resounding successes accompanying our various activities within a short period of its inception, necessitated our ever relentless unique innovation and expansion”, she added.
Adekugbe also explained that progressive efforts are constantly birthed towards increasing the scope and horizon of the association for a wholistic Pan – Nigerian picture; ultimately focussing on having representatives and active participation from all major tribes of Nigeria living in the United Kingdom.
As part of plans for the 59th Independence celebration of Nigeria in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom, Adekugbe disclosed that the planning committee have outlined innovative activities for the day.
“We are actually kick-starting the day with a Flag Raising ceremony at the Rochdale Town Hall, United Kingdom with Nigerians living in Rochdale and other parts of United Kingdom as well as top officials of the Rochdale Municipal Council in attendance”.
“The party train will converge later in the day for our Independence anniversary dinner tagged ‘Black – History Month Gala Dinner’. Besides the usual inter-personal networking, the unity in diversity theme would also play active role at the dinner with a display of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage”, she stated.
Continuing, Adekugbe added that this coming event shall thrive on NCA’s passion for communal charity and humanism. Outstanding recognition and awards would be given out to deserving awardees who have all contributed in their own way to the development of the Nigerian Community in the United Kingdom.
“We are also aiming at making a public presentation of our proposed project tentatively tagged ‘The Nigeria Community Association Centre’; a building project for the association’s administrative, operational and charity purpose specifically dedicated to being a ‘home away from home’ for Nigerians in diaspora. Beyond my personal conviction, it is a reflection of NCA’s commitment to one of our corporate social responsibilities”, Adekugbe said.
Interestingly, and in view of the fact that October is Black History Month, NCA is also leveraging on this unique time and opportunity to celebrate the history, achievements and contributions of the black race to the global world. This and other initiatives, according to Adekugbe is chiefly aimed at expanding the horizon to bridge the gap between Nigerians and their host communities.
Scheduled to hold on Tuesday, October 1, 2019 at the prestigious Castlemere Banqueting Hall in Greater Manchester, United Kingdom, the event has generated a lot of enthusiasm amongst Nigerians in United Kingdom and in diaspora.
“With all sense of modesty, NCA Rochdale has created a niche for itself as a Nigerian socio-cultural brand offering a platform of cultural projection, social integration and professional networking; regardless of colour, race, religion or ethnicity”.
Given our experience and level of preparation, as well as the various support we are getting from all and major stakeholders, I am confident that this coming event will be nothing short of glitz, glamour and most especially, success!”, Adekugbe hinted.