Thoughts on Africa Day by Abiola Babalola

Ahead of our Africa Day celebrations tomorrow, we asked Abiola Babalola to share his thoughts on this global event that is marked each year:

Africa Day is a momentous event celebrated on May 25th every year to commemorate the founding of the African Union.

For me as a Nigerian person, Africa Day represents a significant opportunity to celebrate the unity and diversity of the African people. We also use this day to remember our ancestors who fought for their freedom and to celebrate how far we have come as a nation. We are very passionate about our African roots and we use this day to express our love for the country and the continent. We see Africa Day as a chance to come together with other African nations to celebrate their cultural diversity, heritage, and unity.

Nigeria is renowned for its vibrant culture that is deeply entrenched in its rich history and traditions. The Nigerian people are known for their warm hospitality, strong cultural values, and love for their country.

Nigerian culture is a fusion of diverse ethnicities, including Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa-Fulani, thus creating a unique and colourful tapestry of traditions. It is a mélange of music, dance, food, and art, which showcases the country's proud heritage. Nigerians view their culture as a unifying force that brings people together and is a source of pride and identity. Africa Day offers an opportunity to celebrate this along with the rest of the continent. Nigerians embrace their African heritage and cherish the diversity of their culture. We love Africa Day because it provides a platform to celebrate cultural identity and unity with other African nations.

Personally, I like the Africa Day celebrations because it is a day of cultural enlightenment. It is a chance to learn more about other African cultures and to promote the values of love, peace, and unity that underpin the African Union. I enjoy the cultural activities, music, dance, and the opportunity to showcase our own culture to the world.