Nigerian-American Foundation (NAF), of South Florida to celebrate Nigeria’s 54th Independence
MIAMI – The Nigerian-American Foundation (NAF), of South Florida will pay homage to Nigeria’s 54th Independence during a celebratory gala Saturday, October 4, 2014, 7:00 p.m. at the Newport Beachside Hotel and Resort, 16701 Collins Avenue, Sunny Isles, Florida. The Honorable Frederica Wilson, United States Congresswoman, will be presented the “Friends of Nigeria” Award during the gala for her work in support of Nigeria. Congresswoman Wilson will be among several honorees who are being recognized for their support of Nigeria including Mr. Sunday Akinbiyi, editor of “The Voice,” Miami Gardens Councilman Erhabor Ighodaro and Miami-Dade County Board of Commissioners’ Chairwoman Rebeca Sosa.
“Congresswoman Wilson has initiated a campaign to make the world aware of the serious issues facing Nigeria, particularly as it relates to the abduction of over 200 girls by the Boko Haram,” said gala co-chair Chief Joseph Obadeyi. Our other honorees have been supportive of our efforts to contribute to the well-being and growth of Miami-Dade County,” he added.
Mrs. Nse Essiet, the gala co-chair, has focused her attention on bringing awareness of the effort to eradicate the Ebola virus, which has threatened West Africa and most recently Nigeria. “We would like to support the World Health Organization’s (WHO) efforts by collecting gloves, gowns and masks to distribute to the health workers who are at the forefront of this terrible disease,” she said.
The event will feature a cocktail reception, a briefing on Nigeria by noted author John Umoh as well as performances by the renowned Delou Africa dance troupe, other local talent as well as a fashion parade and drumming.
Nigeria achieved its independence from the British on October 1, 1960. The Federal Republic of Nigeria, often referred to as the “Giant of Africa,” has a population of approximately 170 million, with over 500 ethnic groups. The country is comprised of some 36 states and its Capital is, Abuja. In 2014, Nigeria’s economy (GDP) became the largest in Africa, worth more than $USD500 billion. By 2020, Nigeria is expected to become one of the world’s top 20 economies. Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and the seventh most populous country in the world.
The Nigerian-American Foundation (NAF) is a 501 (c) 3 tax-exempt not-for-profit organization based in Miami, Florida. For further details on the 54th Independence Gala, contact Chief Joseph Obadeyi at (305) 951-7469 or Mrs. Nse Essiet at (305) 710-7375.
