The United Nigeria Welfare Association (UNIWA) brought together Nigerians from across Birmingham, Solihull, and the Black Country on Friday, October 24, 2025, for a grand celebration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary. Held at the Austin Sports & Social Club (Metro Hall), the colourful event attracted over 300 guests and dignitaries from various sectors, marking a night of pride, reflection, and renewed commitment to unity and progress.
Themed “Nigeria at 65: Building Unity and Progress,” the celebration highlighted the importance of national cohesion and community development among Nigerians in the diaspora. The newly elected UNIWA executives, led by President Kunle Aderemi, were officially presented to the public during the event. In his opening remarks, Aderemi reaffirmed the association’s commitment to promoting welfare, cultural preservation, and civic engagement within the Nigerian community.
“Tonight is not just a celebration of our independence,” Aderemi said. “It is also a reaffirmation of our shared responsibility to build stronger bridges across our communities here in the UK while remaining connected to the progress of our homeland.”
Among the distinguished guests were Past President Sir Frank Amadedon, OBE, Past General Secretary Councillor Ade Adeyemo, Mr. Tolashe Jaiyeoba, President of the National Association of Nigerian Communities (NANC), and Dr. Atainu Mbikan, alongside many community leaders, professionals, and students. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with music, cultural displays, and the unmistakable warmth of Nigerian hospitality.
A major highlight of the evening was the inauguration of the UNIWA Constitution Review Committee, chaired by Barrister Thelma Ihebuzo, with Dr. Femi Aworinde, UNIWA General Secretary, serving as Secretary to the Committee. The committee is tasked with modernising the association’s constitution to reflect the evolving needs of the Nigerian community and to strengthen governance and inclusivity within the organisation.
Barrister Ihebuzo, in her brief remarks, emphasised that the review process will be consultative and transparent. “Our goal is to create a living document that not only governs but inspires — one that positions UNIWA as a forward-looking and accountable organisation,” she said.
Dr. Femi Aworinde, who will coordinate the committee’s secretariat, noted that the constitution review marks a new era of organisational renewal and strategic planning for the association.
The event featured goodwill messages from Sir Frank Amadedon, OBE, who commended the new leadership for continuing UNIWA’s long-standing tradition of service, unity, and cultural celebration. “What UNIWA represents is beyond a name; it is a legacy of community cohesion, mutual support, and the preservation of our identity in a multicultural society like Birmingham,” he remarked.
Councillor Ade Adeyemo echoed similar sentiments, stressing the need for continued engagement between Nigerian professionals and civic institutions. He urged Nigerians to participate more actively in local governance, business, and education, noting that “our presence must translate to impact — not just numbers.”
The evening also featured an inspiring keynote on the theme “Nigeria at 65: Building Unity and Progress,” delivered by guest speakers who called for renewed patriotism, social responsibility, and collective action among Nigerians both at home and abroad.
The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, in his goodwill message, commended Nigerians for their immense contributions to the city’s economy, health sector, and cultural diversity. “Birmingham is proud of its Nigerian community — a community of enterprise, resilience, and excellence. As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence, we celebrate not only your heritage but also your role in shaping our shared future,” he said.
In his closing remarks, Membership Secretary, Mrs Ajayi thanked all guests and volunteers who made the event possible, reaffirming his administration’s priorities: strengthening community welfare, supporting youth and mentorship initiatives, and deepening collaboration with other African and Caribbean communities. “We are building on the foundation laid by our predecessors, but with a renewed vision for growth, inclusivity, and service,” he said. As the night drew to a close with the Nigerian national anthem and interfaith prayers, guests departed with a sense of pride and optimism. The event was not just a commemoration of independence — it was a reaffirmation of unity, heritage, and the enduring spirit of Nigerians in Birmingham.
