By IN NEW YORK CITY
October 4 – 6, 2012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 21, 2012
New York – Nigerians and friends of Nigeria are coming together once again in New York City to celebrate the 52nd anniversary of Nigeria’s independence. This annual event is the “largest celebration of Nigeria outside of the homeland.” This year’s celebration will mark the 21st year of Nigeria Independence Day Parade in New York City. The three-day celebration will be loaded with fun and excitement, with Nigerians from around the world congregating in New York City to celebrate their heritage and homeland.
Thursday, October 4, 2012 – Welcome Party – The proverbial red carpet will be rolled out for Nigerian youths and the young at heart coming from Europe, Nigeria, and all across North America to participate in this year’s Independence Day celebration. The reception will be held at the upscale Club Tropical Grill located at 153-41 Rockaway Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11434. Time – 10 PM. Admission is free.
Friday, October 5, 2012 – Cultural Night – Nigerians will display their rich cultures at Brooklyn College located at 2901 Campus Road, Brooklyn, NY 11210.
There will be a Fashion show featuring highly-talented Nigerian fashion designers and models, as well as live performances by various Nigerian artistes. The annual Miss Nigeria Independence Day Pageant, with contestants representing different states in Nigeria, will cap highlights of the evening. Time: 8 PM – 12 midnight. Admission: $15 per adult, $10 per student with ID, and $5 per child under 14.
Saturday, October 6, 2012 – 12 Noon – Parade & Festival – Nigeria Independence Day Parade will commence from East 54th Street and Second Avenue in Manhattan, and proceed to Nigeria House on 44th Street and Second Avenue. This annual parade, with its world-famous colorful floats and moving live music, attracts tens of thousands of people in their traditional attires, marching bands, various organizations and cultural groups proudly displaying their banners.
Immediately after the parade, there is Cultural Festival/Carnival at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza on 47th Street and Second Avenue (by United Nations Secretariat). MAVADO, the king Reggae and of hip hop; various well-known Nigerian and other African artistes will entertain the audience. Favorite Nollywood stars will make special appearance. Fun-seekers will have opportunity to enjoy the tastes of delicious Nigerian cuisines.
Special thanks to our corporate sponsors: Arik Airlines, Western Union, MoneyGram, City University of New York (CUNY), Dish Network, UnitedHealthcare, Christ Apostolic Church First in the Americas, Absolute Faith in Jesus Christ International Church, The Redeemed Church, contributing organizations, and generous individual donors.
For more information, please contact Mike Adeniyi – (609) 903-9393; Solomon Adelaja – (917) 627-8369; or visit: http://www.oanweb.org/