Nigerian American Public Affairs Committee (NAPAC), a non-partisan group fostering community inclusion and public affairs of Nigerian Americans, held its 2nd annual Nigerian Independence Day celebration in sunny Southern California last Saturday, September 30th at the Veteran’s Park in the city of Carson.
Audience at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade
Nigerians proudly waving the flag at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
With an estimated audience of three thousand present, this elaborate event featured live cultural performances and parades by local religious and community associations from across the state.
Also in attendance were various dignitaries, including Mayor Albert Robles of Carson, California State Assemblywoman representing the 47th Assembly District Eloise Reyes, Sandra Izsadore, Mr. Nnamdi Iwu on behalf of Congresswoman Karen Bass and Emir of Machina, Honorable Bashir Albishir Bukar (OON).
Honorable Bashir Albishir Bukar (OON) at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Event MC Chidi Ohaeri and Sandra Izsadore at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Mr. Nnamdi Iwu presenting a certificate of recognition on behalf of Congresswoman Karen Bass to NAPAC members at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Miss Africa, Bay Area 2017; Othelia Joy at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Members of YDN (Young Determined Nigerians ) in concert at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Asanwa dance group featuring Angel Iwuoma, Chidozie Odudu, and Stella Ohakamnu at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Sistah Iminah on stage at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade, in Carson, CA.
Cherose performing at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Members of the Uyai Iban Dance Group at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Dancers Ginny and Nkeiruka Blessing Igbonagwam performing at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
I am Femi performing at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Traditional masquerades at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Music, traditional dancers, masquerades and more
The event, hosted by Chidi Ohaeri aka ChidithaMC, featured Various entertainers representing cultural groups from across Nigeria and the globe, included the following talents;
– Cherose
– Asanwa Dance Troupe
– Sistah Iminah
– Comedian Akeyla Aluko
– Nkeiruka Blessing Igbonagwam and Ginny
– Sammy D
– Pastor Kalejaiye & Imam
– Yinka Rythmz
– JustMeNk
– Bkem
– Funmi Fagbamila
– Meaku
– Sharon
– YDN” (young determined Nigerians )
– Pastor Arowolo Band
– Presidential Smoke
– Tunde the comedian
– Mercy anthem singer
– I am Femi
– Uyai Iban Dance Group
Members of Sisters Fellowship International at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Egbe Omo Yoruba of Southern California at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Members of Umo Igbo Unite Los Angeles at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Association of Moremi Women at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Members of National Association of Nigerian Nurses in North America California Chapter at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Members of Nigerian Muslim Association led by Imam Monsur Ogun at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Odogbolu Sons & Daughters Association California Chapter members at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Members of Eko Club International of California at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Itshekiri Association at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Winners Chapel International at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Isoko Association of Los Angeles delegation at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
The colorful parade featured the following local associations;
– NAPAC (Host)
– ANPA
– NANNNA California Chapter
– Nigerian Association of Pharmacists & Pharmaceutical Scientists in California
– International Christian Center of Los Angeles
– Winners Chapel International
– Nigerian Muslim Association
– African Christian Fellowship West Region
– Umo Igbo Unite Los Angeles
– Odogbolu Sons & Daughters Association (California Chapter)
– Egbe Omo Yoruba of Southern California
– Senegalese Association of Los Angeles
– Isoko Association of Los Angeles
– Igbo Cultural Group
– Itshekiri Group
– Zumunta Association (USA)
– Eko Club of San Francisco
– Moremi Women’s Association
– The Redeemed Christian church of God, Jesus Embassy Los Angeles
– Professional groups of Lawyers
– Ghana Association
– Sierra Leone Association
Chioma Agu’s booth at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Member of ESDIAC Global System at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade, in Carson, CA.
Abibatu at Noble Venture’s booth at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Food, Art & Craft Galore
Veronica’s kitchen, a well-known Nigerian restaurant in Inglewood was busy serving her various culinary specialties. Other vendors, offering international food, services, clothing, arts, and craft by Busola Ogunmakinwa Services, Mr. Yannick Sicot Food Services, Cazares Family Tacos, ECOWAS International, Genesis Enterprise, Umo Igbo Unite of Los Angeles, Noble Ventures, Forest Lawn, Bali Business Management Inc., Jal International Fashions.
2017 Toyota Camry awarded to a lucky winner at the Nigerian 57th Independence Day Parade in Carson, CA.
Brand new car and other raffle giveaways
A key highlight of the event was the raffle drawings during which winners of a brand new 2017 Toyota Camry, family tickets to Disneyland and dinners were awarded.
– Michael Onas
