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In a significant cultural exchange, Nigeria will showcase its rich cultural heritage in Jamaica through drama, poetry, dance, and other artistic displays as part of its 60th independence anniversary celebration. Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Jamaica, Dame Tamuno, announced that the event will involve collaboration with Jamaica’s Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sports, and will feature a variety of Nigerian performances at the Emancipation Vigil held at Seville Heritage Park, St. Ann Parish.
Representing Nigeria at this commemoration will be the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, who will also deliver a message from Nigeria’s President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.). Alongside his role at the vigil, Onyeama is scheduled to participate in the 27th session of the International Seabed Authority, where he will commemorate the 40th anniversary of the convention’s adoption, aiming to further solidify ties between the two nations.
The Nigerian performances will include:
- Ada Ada – a cultural performance portraying the Igbo traditional marriage ceremony.
- “Spoken Word on Motherland” – a poetry recitation by a Jamaican student from Calabar.
- Unity Dance – symbolizing Nigeria’s unity, showcasing dances from the country’s major ethnic groups.
- Nigerian Solo Highlife Song – performed by a Nigerian doctor, representing Nigerian musical heritage.
- Seki Cultural Troupe – presenting traditional performances from Rivers State.
- Nigerian Contemporary Dance – modern dance routines influenced by Nigerian culture.
In addition, Onyeama will participate in Jamaica’s Miss Festival Queen coronation at the JA 60 Festival Village in Kingston on August 1. He will present an award to one of the winners, enhancing Nigeria’s role in Jamaica’s independence festivities.
The weeklong celebration, from July 31 to August 7, emphasizes the enduring relationship between Nigeria and Jamaica and marks the first time Nigeria has actively participated in Jamaica’s independence anniversary, making it a historic occasion for both nations.
