Mamdani celebrates Nigerians for contributions to New York city

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Tuesday praised the Nigerian community for its role in shaping the cultural and economic life of the city’s five boroughs.

His comment came after Nigerian New Yorkers celebrated their heritage and cultural contributions as New York City marked the 34th anniversary of the Nigerian Day Parade.

Mr Mamdani joined the celebrations.

In a post on X, Mr Mamdani said the parade was an opportunity to celebrate the Nigerian community and its contribution to New York.

He highlighted the contributions of Nigerian entrepreneurs and their businesses.

He pointed out that these groups have strengthened neighbourhoods across the city, as well as the influence of Nigerian music and culture.

He specifically referenced the popularity of Afrobeats at graduation celebrations in parts of the city and the presence of the Agbe drum tradition in Brooklyn.

“New York City, wetin dey sup?” he wrote, before noting, “It was a joy to commemorate 34 years of the Nigerian Day Parade alongside the many Nigerian New Yorkers who fill our city with life.”

“From the entrepreneurs whose businesses strengthen our neighborhoods, to the sounds of Afrobeats pouring out of graduation parties in Southeast Queens, and the aroma of Agege bread calling out to passersby in Brooklyn — the impact of Nigerian New Yorkers is felt across the five boroughs.

“Our city is richer in culture, stronger in community, and more vibrant because of your contributions,” he wrote.

The Nigerian Day Parade on Sunday featured colourful displays of traditional identity, with Nigerians dressed in traditional outfits and others waving the Nigerian flag.

Images from the event that surfaced online showed crowds celebrating along. Traditional food and cultural symbols featured prominently among the activities.

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It also included music, dancing, and cultural performances.

Mr Mamdani said the Nigerian community had made New York “richer in culture, stronger in community, and more vibrant” through its contributions.

The parade is an annual platform for Nigerian New Yorkers to celebrate their heritage and showcase the country’s culture, traditions, and growing influence in one of the world’s most diverse cities.