Nigeria map and flag

Nigeria marked its 66th Independence Anniversary this year, reflecting on a journey that began on 1 October 1960 when the country gained independence from British colonial rule. Six and a half decades later, Nigerians continue to maintain strong cultural, economic and diplomatic connections with Britain, with the Nigerian diaspora playing an increasingly important role in that relationship.

The anniversary also provided an opportunity to celebrate the long-standing Nigerian financial institution that hosted this London gathering. FirstBank traces its history to 1894, when it began operations in Lagos as the Bank of British West Africa. Today, its UK subsidiary, FirstBank UK, operates from London as an international bank focused on facilitating trade and investment between Africa and Europe. It has been operating in the UK since 2002.

Against this historical backdrop, FirstBank UK, in collaboration with the Nigeria High Commission in the United Kingdom, hosted a well-attended celebration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary in London on 2 October 2026.

The gathering attracted diplomats, community leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, media practitioners and prominent members of the Nigerian and wider African communities.

Amb. Aminu Muhammed Dalhatu

Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the UK, Ambassador Aminu Dalhatu, was present, alongside the High Commissioner of The Gambia and members of the African diplomatic community, adding a wider dimension of African solidarity to the celebration.

The occasion was also notable for the range of Nigerian community leadership represented. Among those present were past and current diaspora leaders, professionals and public figures, including Chief Bimbo Afolayan, Engr. Dr Boma Douglas, Chief Ayo Akinfe, Chief Sir Barr. Chibuzo Ubochi, Chief Chima Oparaogu and other community stakeholders.

The media and broadcasting sector was represented by prominent practitioners, including Commandant Ambassador Alistair Soyode, Founder of BEN Television and former Diaspora Leader, Mr Akintemi of News Central and Juliana Olayinka of Channels Television’s London Bureau, Dr Jemaine Sanwo-Olu among others.

Their presence reflected the important role of the media in connecting Nigerians across borders, telling the diaspora story and contributing to Nigeria’s international image.

The celebration also provided an opportunity to recognise community service and leadership, while creating a relaxed platform for interaction among different generations and sectors of the Nigerian community.

FirstBank UK Managing Director K. O. Adenowo and his team were commended for hosting an event that went beyond a conventional independence celebration, bringing together institutions, business, diplomacy, media and community leadership.

The collaboration with the Nigeria High Commission similarly demonstrated how diplomatic and private-sector partnerships can create meaningful platforms for national celebration and diaspora engagement.

As Nigeria continues its journey beyond 66 years of independence, the London celebration offered a reminder that national identity extends beyond geographical borders—and that the Nigerian diaspora remains an important part of the country’s continuing story.

Happy 66th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria.