By Cecilia Ologunagba

New York, May 29, 2023

New York City Mayor, Eric Adams, has commended the collaboration and the unification of the African Union (AU) and the unification of Africans throughout the entire diaspora.

Adams gave the commendation at the AU Flag Raising Ceremony in commemoration of the 60 years anniversary of the establishment of the Union at Bowling Green, New York.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Consul General of Nigeria in New York, Amb. Lot Egopija attended the event, organised by the African Consuls General Group.

The Mayor said 60 years ago, the decision was made to come together to fight against apartheid and African nations united to deal with the atrocities and the nefarious acts that were perpetrated on the South African people.

“Now 60 years later, it is imperative that we continue our pursuit to bring Africa to its rightful place of innovation, of collaboration, and of self-determination, which is at the heart, and we can do that.

“When I look over and see the Consul Generals from the various African nations, we can fortify our relationships using not only the United Nations, but using a country that clearly has a Mayor of African ancestry,’’ he said.

Adams said he was looking forward to the next few years that the City would continue to strengthen its relationship with the African people on the continent and here in America.

“I look forward to returning to Africa. I’ve been in Africa six times, and I look forward in the next year to more trips… I believe I’m the only Mayor in the history of this city to probably visit the continent of Africa.

“I look forward to taking a tour of several African countries next year to continue to build and strengthen the relationship,’’ he said.

In her remarks, Amb. Fatima Kyari Mohammed, the Permanent Observer of the AU to the UN, said the African Union Flag proudly displayed the colours of the diverse nations.

“The vibrant green represents the richness of our land, the vast resources that sustain us and the beauty of our natural landscapes.

“It reminds us of the importance of sustainable development, responsible stewardship of our environment, and the need to harness our resources for the benefit of all Africans.

“It is a reminder for all of us to strive to protect and preserve our natural heritage for future generations while promoting African hopes and aspirations.”

According to her, the golden yellow embodies the wealth of Africa, not only in terms of its natural resources, but also in the talent, creativity and ingenuity of our people.

“It represents the enormous potential that exists within Africa, waiting to be unleashed through education, innovation, and inclusive growth.

“It is a reminder that we are the architects of our own destiny.

“Our duty, therefore, is to nurture and harness this potential, creating opportunities for our people to thrive and to contribute to the advancement of our societies.’’

In addition, she said that Africa without borders signifies African Unity, and African Unity goes beyond its borders.

“As we raise the flag of the African Union in the city of New York, we send a powerful message to the world.

“We declare our readiness to contribute to the global community, to collaborate with other nations in the spirit of multilateralism, and to address the column common challenges that affect all of us.

“We stand united, representing a continent that is vibrant, dynamic, and full of potential. It will serve as a reminder to all who see it of Africa’s rich history, its ongoing transformation and its bright future.”

(Middle) New York City Mayor, Eric Adams holding flags of some African countries at the AU Flag Raising Ceremony in New York.

Chair of the African Consuls General Group, Amb. El Hadji Ndao, thanked the Mayor and sought for collaboration in areas of trade and commerce.

Ndao, who is the Consul General of Senegal in New York, said the African Consuls General Group extended their hand to Mayor Eric Adams, who misses no occasion to express his affection for Africa.

“I would like to renew my friendship again, to you and to your team, on behalf of my peers here present, as we look forward for more avenues to collaborate for the great benefit of our diaspora hosted by New York City under your great leadership,’’ he said.