Nigerian Independence Day is celebrated on October 1st each year. Nigeria gained freedom from the British Empire on October 1st, 1960. They celebrate this day with full passion, even if they live abroad.
According to sources, it is estimated that 17 million Nigerian diasporas live outside of Nigeria as of 2024. Nigerian diaspora community gathers together on Independence Day celebrations and memorizes their homeland. They miss their families in Nigeria and, for their well-being, transfer money back home through online money transfer companies.
So, if you are also far away from home on this Nigerian Independence Day, you are not alone. This blog will share some tips for celebrating the national day even if you are not in Nigeria.
Nigerian Independence Day Celebration
You can celebrate Independence Day in various ways, such as hosting a party with local friends abroad or a virtual party with family and friends in Nigeria.
You can also cook traditional Nigerian dishes, decorate your room, and wear a dress of white and green colour. Most importantly, you can celebrate this Freedom Day by sending money to your family and expressing your love and support for them and Nigeria. Read below to learn more about these celebration tips.
1. Host A Party with Friends and Family
To celebrate Nigerian Independence Day:
- Arrange a virtual party with your family and friends.
- Share memories with them and ask about their daily routines.
- Spend time with your loved ones through an online connection like Zoom or Google Meet.
- Share stories with them about your past and your living in Nigeria.
These stories can bring a sense of community and nostalgia, making everyone feel closer to home. If you arrange a physical party abroad with your local friends, then play the Nigerian national anthem. Share interesting facts about your country’s independence.
Many people abroad are interested in learning more about your country, history, and culture. Share with them your cultural celebrations, family ties, traditions, and the Nigerian film industry.
2. Cook Traditional Nigerian Dishes
Food is an important part of any celebration. Nigerians feel proud of their heritage, which represents their culture. Even if you are away from home, you can still enjoy your traditional food by preparing it yourself.
You can cook Jollof rice, Egusi soup, Suya, or Pounded Yam. If you do not know how to cook, call your mother or any family member who knows cooking well. They will guide you in cooking, and your love bond will strengthen.
Exchange your recipes with your neighbors or friends abroad. This will create a fun and engaging environment for learning more about each other’s cultures. After the food is ready, we eat together, even if it’s just over a video call. Forgetting about the distance, eating together can bring people closer together.
3. Decorate Your Room with a White and Green Theme
To create festive surroundings, you can decorate your room or space with a white and green background. You can turn your room into a patriotic setting using balloons, banners, or flags of Nigeria.
If you have traditional goods, art & craft work, or any cultural items, display them in a prominent place in your decorated area. These items will beautify your room and create a sense of being at home on Nigerian Independence Day.
Play your traditional music and movies and enjoy them while eating traditional dishes made by yourself. If you have friends interested in your culture, share the meaning of your flag’s color and significant symbols of Nigeria. Since you are overseas, you might not get October 1st off. Requesting a day off ahead of time is best if you want to celebrate.
4. Send Money to Your Family Back Home
On Nigerian Independence Day, sending money to Nigeria is a gesture of love and care for your family and country. Make you feel connected with your motherland even if you are not physically there. While celebrating your national day, virtually invite your family and spend time with them. Send Money With Remit Choice Now.
