University of Lynchburg’s International Society will host a celebration of Nigeria’s Independence Day on Saturday, October 1 at 3:30 p.m in the West Room in Drysdale Student Center. The celebration will include a performance of Nigeria’s national anthem and other songs, presentations on Nigerian fashion and culture, and poetry.
More than 20 students from Nigeria currently study at LC. The celebration will give attendees a greater appreciation for the country’s culture and history. “It is important to celebrate the Nigerians independence day, because it is a reminder of who we are as a people and how far we have come,” said Preye Amaruntowa ’18, president of the University of Lynchburg International Society. “It serves as a reminder of our past, of what we have presently, and what more we could do for the future of Nigeria. Celebrating the independence means celebrating hope and endless possibilities. It also means recognizing the heroes of our past who made our reality possible.”
Twice the size of California, the West African region now known as Nigeria became a British colony in 1914, according to everyculture.com. The spread of colonial power made the ethnic groups in the region feel a sense of national identity as they came together and fought against colonial rule. Nigeria gained its independence from Great Britain on October 1, 1960. According to aglobalworld.com, Independence Day is celebrated by Nigerians in the country and all over the world. Celebratory activities include an address by the country’s president, military parades, and cultural dances.
