By Cecilia Ologunagba

New York, Feb. 28, 2022

The Consulate-General of Nigeria in New York, United States of America (USA) has joined its counterparts from Ghana and Turkey to honour the contributions of African Americans to the development of the U.S.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that every February since 1976, the U.S. has celebrated the Black History Month to acknowledge the contributions of African Americans to its national development.

The Black History Month is an opportunity to showcase the rich cultural heritage, successes and challenges of African Americans.

At an event to commemorate the Month, the Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, Amb. Lot Egopija, said Nigeria as part of African Americans’ population would continue to remember its homeland.

Egopija said Nigerians living in the U.S. would also continue to contribute to the development of its host country, saying, “We will always remember home, even if we are immigrants in the U.S.

According to him, the event is designed to honour the unprecedented contributions of African American immigration population.

“Please, enjoy the rich culture on display. Culture is the customs, the costumes, the characters, the characteristics, the manners, the mannerisms, the philosophy, and the ideology of a people.

“So, get immersed in the culture of two African giants and satisfy your palate with the array of delicacies on display.’’

In his remarks, the Consul-General of Ghana in New York, Amb. Daniel Boafo said the event gave the opportunity to showcase the beautiful tourist attractions and to promote the investment opportunities in our various countries.

Boafo recalled the contributions some Blacks, such as Martin Luther King, Carter Woodson, the father of Black History, who in 1926 initiated the drive to educate black people about black history and culture, made.

“We will continue to remember other renowned people of African descent such as Mohammed Ali, Rosa Parks as well as Micheal Jackson and others,’’ he said.

The Ghanian Envoy said it would be important for African Americans, and people of African descent in the diaspora to meet from time to time to socialise and support one another.

Similarly, the Consul-General of Turkey in New York, Amb. Reyhan Ozgur, emphasised on networking with one another to promote and celebrate the achievements of Black Americans.

Ozgur said the event was about celebrating African Americans and their contributions to the U.S, noting that New York is the center of extra ordinary diversity.

“Black Americans are an inseparable part of America, particularly the New York culture. We cherish their perseverance, resilience and achievements,’’ he said.

Also speaking, Mr. Edward Mermelsten, Commissioner for International Affairs at the Mayor’s office, commended the organisers of the event, on behalf of the New York City Mayor, Eric Adams.

“Working across the five boroughs of the city, you will hear 100 languages spoken in New York and you will experience culture around the world.

“New York is a city of immigrants. It is the strength that helps us grow and overcome our challenges. The African Americans are central to the city, they have made significant contributions to every part of our lives.’’