Missions Canvases Nigerians’ Support in Nation Building of Fatherland

The Nigerian Mission in South Africa has urged Nigerians to always complement the Federal Government’s efforts in the task of nation-building to achieve meaningful growth.

This is contained in a statement issued, on Tuesday in Abuja, by the Nigeria Consulate General in Johannesburg, South Africa, on the sideline of activities to mark Nigeria’s 61st Independence Anniversary.

According to the statement, the missions hosted the Nigerian Community, members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, host community officials and other well-wishers of Nigeria, to mark the anniversary.

It noted that the event was hosted at the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg for and on behalf of the High Commission, the Defence Section and the Consulate General.

The statement quoted the High Commissioner of Nigeria to South Africa, Mr Muhammad Manta in his speech, to have advised Nigerians to contribute their quota to the ongoing nation-building process of their fatherland.

“I urge Nigerians to learn to complement government in the task of nation-building.

“Some achievements of the current administration include its unrelenting drive in tackling the security challenges and infrastructural deficit in the country.

“I am optimistic that together, more can be achieved for the good of all Nigerians,’’ Manta said.

It also quoted the Consul General of Nigeria, Mr Abdul Malik Ahmed, to have said that Nigeria’s independence anniversary remained a unique opportunity to celebrate the nation’s heroes past and rich future.

“Nigerians must continue to reflect on the sacrifices of the founding fathers of the country, their labour is not in vain.

“The challenges of nation-building are not peculiar to Nigeria alone.

“I enjoin Nigerians to explore constitutional provisions in addressing issues of national development, instead of resorting to unlawful means,’’ Ahmed said.

Prof. Larry Obi, a former Deputy Vice-Chancellor in two South African Universities, delivered a lecture on the COVID-19 pandemic.

Obi counselled all attendees to support efforts directed at stopping the pandemic in its track, by availing themselves of the vaccination.

Also, Ms Ndileka Mandela, the eldest grandchild of Nelson Mandela, at the event commended the role Nigeria played in the fight against apartheid and colonialism in Southern Africa.

She called for robust engagement among Nigerian and South African youths to deal with the challenges of xenophobia.

She also highlighted the sterling virtues of Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa and its emancipation of the black race.

The mission stated revealed that the anniversary celebration featured raffle draws organised by two Nigerian companies, Homebaze Restaurant and MJF travels, owned by Chief Ken Ayere and Mrs Bukky Eniola respectively.

The high point of the event included a carnival display of Nigeria rich cultural heritage and a congregation of individuals with unwavering faith and belief in the country.

There was also the cultural performances from Nigerian groups, colourful Nigerian fashion and cuisines, as the platform for the promotion of African unity, brotherhood and peaceful coexistence between Nigerians and South Africans.  (NAN)