Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was marked in Kigali on October 1, 2025, with colour, rhythm and reflection, as the Nigerian community in Rwanda celebrated the milestone with a blend of tradition, culture and solidarity.
The evening was filled with music, beautiful dances and creative performances that mirrored Nigeria’s cultural vibrancy, while the Association of Nigerians in Rwanda extended its goodwill by providing Mutuelle de Santé medical insurance to 100 beneficiaries.
Addressing the gathering, H.E. Ibrahim Zanna, the acting Nigerian High Commissioner to Rwanda, called the celebration “a day of joy and reflection” for Nigerians everywhere.
He noted that despite challenges, Nigeria has endured as “a unified, indissoluble and indivisible entity for 65 years,” a testimony to the sacrifices of its founding fathers and the resilience of its people.
“The Nigerian culture is as diverse as its people, and our cultural identity is a source of deep national pride. It is Nigerians that make Nigeria a great and significant country in the international community.” Zanna said.
“From Afro beats to Nollywood, from fashion to cuisine, to sports, our culture has become a global success story. And it is remarkable that our youth are at the forefront of flying the Nigerian flag high,” he noted.
The High Commissioner underscored Nigeria’s growing ties with Rwanda, citing practical cooperation in education, defence, aviation and trade. He highlighted the Nigerian Technical Aid Scheme through which 28 Nigerian professors and PhD holders currently serve in Rwanda’s universities.
“From real estate projects to Nigerian banks such as GT Bank and Access Bank, and a wave of technology-driven fintechs, Nigerians are deeply contributing to Rwanda’s development. This speaks not only of our entrepreneurial spirit but also of Rwanda’s warm hospitality to our people,” Zanna remarked.
He further praised recent milestones such as the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement signed in June 2025, describing it as “a framework that will facilitate trade, investment and prosperity for both nations.”
“Our mantra at the High Commission is simple: help us to know you better. We are here to ensure that every Nigerian in Rwanda feels connected, supported and truly represented. Your dynamism reflects the greatest asset of Nigeria, its people,” he said.
Professor Garba Wali, President of the Association of Nigerians in Rwanda, echoed those sentiments in his own address, describing the anniversary as “a moment of pride and gratitude.”
“Sixty-five years of nationhood is a profound milestone, a testimony to our endurance as a people and our unbroken determination to keep the flame of nationhood alive. We gather not only to celebrate but to reaffirm our responsibility to the values of unity, justice, freedom and progress,” Wali said.
He paid tribute to Nigerians across the world whose creativity and resilience continue to inspire global recognition in literature, science, technology, sports and entrepreneurship. While acknowledging Nigeria’s challenges, he emphasized that its true character lies in its ability to rise above adversity.
“We are not defined by our struggles but by our ability to turn adversity into opportunity. Our youths are shaping global narratives and redefining Africa’s possibilities. Nigeria remains Africa’s largest economy and a cultural powerhouse. The world is celebrating our success stories,” Wali noted.
He also expressed gratitude to Rwanda for providing a peaceful and enabling environment where Nigerians can thrive. “Rwanda has offered Nigerians a home away from home, a space to contribute to shared growth. The friendship and cooperation between our two nations grow stronger every year,” he said.
The evening’s festivities were as lively as they were symbolic, showcasing the diversity and dynamism of Nigerian heritage. Between the traditional dances and musical interludes, the audience was reminded of the theme for the year’s celebration: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nigeria.
