By Milton Tella – The Acting High Commissioner of Nigeria to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Cyprian Heen, led other senior diplomats to the End of Year Gala Dinner, organised at the Regency Banqueting Suite, London, by the Central Association of Nigerians in the UK (CANUK) on 16th December 2023.
Ambassador Heen in his remarks described the evening as a very remarkable one that offers the opportunity to celebrate Nigeria’s diversity.
He spoke extensively on the need for unity within the Nigerian community in the UK. He wondered why both CANUK and NIDEO (Nigerian in Diaspora Organisations) organised their end of year party on the same day.
Ambassador Heen advised that the two organisations should endeavour to work together on future events. “If l had not been intentional to attend these events, I would not have made it to attend both events today. You are to collaborate and work side by side. United you stand, divided you fall.
This evening, as we come together from different parts of Nigeria, representing diverse cultures, traditions and beliefs, it is essential for us to recognise the strength that lies in our unity, our ability to transcend tribal, religious and regional differences is not only a testament to the resilience of our people but also to the potentials we possess when we stand together as one community. I urge each one of you to be ambassadors of unity. Let us live by examples and inspire others to join us in this noble cause. Together we can create a future that will define our collective strength and shared prosperity.”
Hon. Ayo Akinfe, Chairman of CANUK in his address to the gathering said, “CANUK has come a long way since it was founded in 2005, the organisation today has over 120 member associations, the future is bright and the future is Nigerian.”
The Nigerian styled traditionally flavoured party had in attendance some CEOs of corporate organisations and British politicians such as the Mayor of the London Borough of Southwark, Cllr. Michael Situ and Mayor of the London Borough of Haringey, Cllr. Lester Buxton, Dr. Paul Harrison, Community Ambassador of Tropical Sun, Representatives of Tilda Rice, USA Rice, Providus Bank, Kato Enterprises, ADES Supermarket, Eniola Foods and Send APP.
The very entertaining evening was laced with music supplied by DJ Finest, saxophonist Kakaki, cultural displays by Tiv Swange dancers and Eyo Masquerades.
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