The annual event, which has grown into the largest African national celebration outside the continent, brought together Nigerians from across the United States and beyond.
The colourful parade procession stretched from East 38th Street to East 24th Street along Madison Avenue, effectively shutting down one of Manhattan’s busiest corridors to traffic.
Organised by the Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN) in collaboration with the Consulate General of Nigeria in New York and partner groups, the parade showcased the best of Nigerian culture, unity, and pride.
Uniformed contingents from the New York Police Department, Department of Correction, and other diaspora associations marched alongside Nigerian professional bodies, religious organisations, and youth groups. Traditional dancers, musical floats, and fashion displays dazzled cheering spectators who lined the streets waving Nigerian flags.
Dignitaries in attendance included Nigeria’s Consul General in New York, Amb. Abubakar Jidda; the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Ms Amina Mohammed; and the Acting Ambassador of Nigeria to the U.S., Amb. Samson Itegboje.
Other guests were Mr. Syndoph Endoni, Chargé d’Affaires at Nigeria’s Permanent Mission to the UN; Mrs. Ngozi Adeleke, wife of the Osun State Governor; and Amb. Nicholas Ella, former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources.
The celebration later moved to Madison Square Park, where the carnival continued with live performances from Nigerian and international artistes. Afrobeat star Bella Shmurda headlined the event, thrilling the youthful crowd with energetic hits that lit up the evening.
In his remarks, Ambassador Jidda congratulated Nigerians in the diaspora and commended organisers for sustaining the tradition since 1991, saying it continues to strengthen Nigeria’s image and foster cultural diplomacy.
“Nigeria remains a great nation, and 65 years of independence is worth celebrating despite our challenges. Our people are our greatest asset,” Jidda stated.
He added that Nigeria is the only African nation that hosts a full-scale independence parade and carnival in New York, a tradition that underscores the strength and unity of the Nigerian community in the U.S.
The President of OAN, Mrs. Olutomi Aregbesola, said the event goes beyond celebration, describing it as “a global statement of Nigeria’s cultural pride, resilience, and influence.”
“This parade is more than a festival; it’s a reflection of who we are as Nigerians — strong, united, and proud,” she said.
Mr. Olayinka Dan-Salami, Chairman of the Parade Committee, hailed the dedication of Nigerians in the diaspora and called for more sponsorships to sustain and expand the event.
“With greater support, we can take this annual celebration to new heights,” he noted.
Attendees enjoyed Afrobeat rhythms, Nigerian delicacies, cultural dances, and fashion showcases throughout the day.
One of the participants, Adeola Adesina, described the experience as “a home away from home — a beautiful reminder that Nigeria lives in our hearts no matter where we are.”
Earlier in the day, the Nigerian flag was ceremonially hoisted at Bowling Green, the heart of New York’s financial district, symbolising national pride and unity.
