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India Hosts Diplomatic Community in Celebration of 75th Republic Day

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By Eric Elezuo

The Indian Community in Nigeria has hosted a splendid soiree to celebrate its 75th Republic Day.

The event, which took place at the Country’s Consulate at Walter Carrington Crescent in Lagos, witnessed the gathering of the diplomatic community, high society, Indian nationals resident in Lagos and lovers of India.

Anchored by Abhinit Puri, the event showcased inspirational speeches, cultural displays and solid networking.

In his opening speech, the Indian High Commissioner, Mr. G. Balasubramanian, welcome everyone in his characteristic joviality, setting the stage for an evening of warm, friendliness and conviviality.

In his speech, Balasubramanian traced the origin of the Indian Republic Day, saying it is dated back to 1950, when it was agreed shortly after independence in 1947 that the country needs a body of rules to govern its activities. And that birth the Indian Constitution.

“India’s love for orderliness, democracy, rule of law and constituted authority necessitated that a day be set aside to celebrate the establishment of deep rooted democratic institution in the country. And today, we are commemorating the 75th edition.

“We therefore, urge you our friends, members of the diplomatic Corps, representatives of the Lagos State government, friends of India and the general public to feel at ease and enjoy the best of India’s democracy,” the High Commissioner said.

SSA to Lagos Governor Jermaine Sanwo-Olu with High Commissioner, Balasubramanian and CG Kern

He added that the Nigerian-Indian relationship is built on a strong pedestal as both countries are on the path of supporting each other ‘as part of the capacity streams that we have’.

He informed also that “We also have a large number of students, who are studying in India, about 5000 residing in India. India is also a sought after medical destination for people from Nigeria.

“So the relationship from people to people, to economic, to political has been consolidated, and it continues to grow further. And I can assure you of the commitment of the people of India to further strengthen these ties.”

Also speaking the Consul General in charge of the Consulate, Chandramouli Kumar Kern, who hosted the event, ably supported by his wife, Mrs. Nita Kern, reiterated the stand of the High Commissioner, noting that the Republic Day is another way of saying Constitution Day, or Democracy Day.

“This is what we do to remind ourselves that we are a democratic country; a sovereign country; and we celebrate India with the friends of India.

“This is quite different from Independence Day. When we got independence from the British in August 1947, we were still governed by previous laws and rules. We therefore, needed a constitution so that we can become sovereign. And after about two-three years, a Constitution came to be,” Kern said.

He further noted that the Indian Constitution has been amended a hundred and twenty times all in a bid to fashion out what is best for the country.

Home Creation group performing

“The Supreme Court of India has said that the constitution can be amended as many times as possible provided the basics doesn’t change, he informed.

He commended President Bola Tinubu for participating in the last G-20 Summit in New Delhi, India, where he noted that a total of $14 billion investtment was placed.

Sanwo-Olu, Folashade Ambrose, Balasubramanian, Momodu and Kern

He also stressed that India was party to the release of a strong leaders declaration document, where it showed ‘finest idea of diplomacy’ to secure the outcome of the document unanimously.

He listed the important outcomes as follows:

1. The peace resolution of conflicts and efforts to address crisis through diplomacy and dialogue. Today’s era is not the era of war

2. Greater management of global financial institutions.

3. Improves access to digital medium and development of public digital infrastructure.

In her remarks as the special guest of honour, the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade, Cooperatives and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose, said that the thrust of her ministry is to make Lagos State a 21st century economy, maintaining that the thrust is about drawing economic growth.

We are drive economic prosperity and growth, focus on trade, and essentially strengthen the organised private sector through MSMEs, the industrial sector.

Delivery the message of the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Diaspora and Foreign Relations, Jermaine Sanwo-Olu, who represented the governor, celebration is the reflection of the remarkable journey of the country since independence, and a celebration of India’s rich and colourful cultural.

“This celebration also provides the opportunity to restate our commitment to economic and trade ties binding our two nations with Lagos State featuring prominent as huge quite number of Indians and their business interests,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu traced the relationship between India and Lagos to two alyears after Nigeria’s independence when Lagos played host to India’s diplomatic house, which effectively laid the foundation for the mutual beneficial relationship between Lagos State and India and Nigeria.

He commended India that after 75 years as a Republic, the country stands as one of the world’s fastest economy. In fact, the fifth in the hierarchy of most economically viable nations of the world.

The event was not without side attractions as Swaryatra Band group entertained the guests continually with sounds from Nigeria and India, chiefly among them tunes from the original Indian classic movie, Disco Dancer and a rendition of Rema’s Calm Down.

Also on hand to entertain the guests with superlative dance steps was the group, Home Creation, which thrilled everyone present with native Indian dance steps.

Among very special guests of honour that graced the occasion was Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Aare Dele Momodu.

Photos: Koya Adegbite

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Dominican University Hails Peter Obi on 65th Birthday

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The Dominican University, Ibadan, has paid glowing tribute to its Pro-Chancellor and former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, on his 65th birthday, describing him as a visionary leader whose commitment to education, youth development and national progress continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.

In a goodwill message issued on Sunday, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Jacinta Opara, lauded Obi’s enduring passion for quality education, noting that his consistent investments in human capital and advocacy for educational excellence have strengthened institutions and offered hope to young people across the country.

According to Opara, Obi has, through his public service and private engagements, remained a steadfast champion of education, making it a cornerstone of his vision for national development.

She said his words, actions and unwavering support for learning had reinforced the conviction that education remains the most effective instrument for building a prosperous, inclusive and sustainable society.

The university also expressed appreciation for Obi’s contributions to the institution as Pro-Chancellor, describing his leadership, generosity and guidance as instrumental to its growth and development.

The statement noted that under his stewardship, Dominican University has continued to pursue academic excellence while remaining committed to its mission of producing morally upright and globally competitive graduates.

It read in part: “As a university founded a decade ago on the rich 800-year educational heritage of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans), we remain profoundly grateful for your visionary leadership, generous support and invaluable contributions as our Pro-Chancellor.”

The institution joined family members, associates and well-wishers in celebrating Obi’s milestone, praying for continued good health, wisdom, strength and divine guidance as he continues to advocate good governance, human dignity, hope and national development.

The message, signed by the Vice-Chancellor, reaffirmed the university’s pride in its association with Obi, whose dedication to education, integrity and selfless service, it said, continues to leave a lasting impact on the nation and inspire future generations.

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Ooni of Ife Loses Elder Brother Prince Adetunji

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The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has announced the passing of his immediate elder brother, Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi.

The monarch made the announcement in a statement released on Sunday through the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal.

Describing the late prince as a respected businessman and compassionate leader, the Ooni said Prince Adetunji lived a life dedicated to service, humility and the wellbeing of others.

According to the statement, the death of Prince Adetunji has left a deep void in the Ogunwusi family, the Ojaja Royal Dynasty and the entire Ile-Ife Kingdom.

Prince Adetunji, who was born on December 8, 1967, was a member of the Ojaja lineage of the Giesi Ruling House in Ile-Ife. He was also the Group Chairman of Primewaterview Holdings, where he earned recognition for his contributions to business development and entrepreneurship.

The Ooni noted that his late brother built a reputation as an innovative entrepreneur and visionary leader. Through his business activities, he created opportunities for many people and contributed to economic growth in different sectors.

The monarch further stated that beyond his achievements in business, Prince Adetunji was known for his generosity, kindness and commitment to humanitarian causes. He was said to have quietly supported many individuals and families, offering assistance, guidance and encouragement whenever needed.

The statement added that Prince Adetunji’s influence extended beyond the corporate world, as he remained deeply connected to his roots and maintained a strong interest in the progress and development of Ile-Ife and its people.

The Ooni described his late brother as a dependable adviser, a loving family member and a man whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations.

Family members, friends, associates and well wishers have continued to pay tribute to the late prince, remembering him for his humility, wisdom and positive impact on society.

The palace said further details regarding funeral arrangements and other ceremonies would be announced by the family in due course.

Prince Adetunji’s death marks a significant loss to the royal family and the people of Ile-Ife, who will remember him for his service, leadership and dedication to humanity.

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Harakati Za Holds Pan-African Conference on Economic Restructuring, Political Reforms, Regional Integration in Accra

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More than 200 delegates from across Africa are expected to converge in Accra on July 24, 2026, for an international conference on “Economic Restructuring, Political Reforms and Integration for Sustainable Development in Africa.”

The conference, organised by Harakati Za Muungano, will take place at the GNAT Hall and will bring together policymakers, academics, business leaders, traditional authorities, civil society organisations, youth leaders and development partners to explore practical solutions for accelerating Africa’s development through deeper regional integration.

Harakati Za Muungano, a Swahili phrase meaning “Union Movement,” is a pan-African movement committed to promoting African unity, economic transformation and governance reforms that support sustainable development.

The organisation believes that Africa’s vast human and natural resources can only be fully harnessed through stronger regional cooperation, enhanced intra-African trade and governance systems that place the continent’s long-term development at the centre of public policy.

Since its establishment in November 2023, the movement has expanded its operations to 17 African countries, engaging governments, regional institutions, traditional leaders, professionals, youth groups and community organisations.

Its work focuses on policy advocacy, research, civic engagement and humanitarian initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive development, strengthening regional cooperation and encouraging reforms that improve the quality of life of Africans.

The conference will provide a platform for participants to deliberate on critical issues affecting the continent, including constitutional reforms, economic restructuring, regional market integration, industrialisation, governance continuity and sustainable financing models for development.

Organisers expect the discussions to produce practical recommendations that can inform policy decisions at both national and regional levels.

A major focus of the conference will be the movement’s vision of a more integrated Sub-Saharan Africa where barriers to trade and movement are reduced, economic collaboration is strengthened and governments adopt policies that encourage long-term planning, investment and shared prosperity.

The organisation believes that greater integration will unlock new opportunities for businesses, create jobs, promote industrial growth and enhance Africa’s global competitiveness.

Organisers say the conference represents an important opportunity for African leaders and stakeholders to collectively examine bold and innovative approaches to the continent’s future.

With over 200 delegates expected from across the continent, the event is anticipated to foster meaningful dialogue, strengthen partnerships and advance a shared vision of an economically resilient, politically stable and fully integrated Africa.

-Overseeronline.com

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