Editor’s Note
As we usher in a new year, we are filled with gratitude for the achievements, milestones, and vibrant spirit that defined our community in 2024. This edition of the NAMI Newsletter is a celebration of excellence, unity, and culture, as we shine a spotlight on the remarkable individuals and events that have enriched our community.
From madam President -Vera Keyede’s new year message to recognizing the inspiring achievements of Kenny Daodu and Abiodun Adetu to celebrating cultural pride at upcoming events like “Go to the Pavilions,” this issue reflects the strength and diversity of our shared experiences. We also take a moment to appreciate the incredible efforts of our volunteers and the joyous traditions that bring families together during the holidays.
Stay informed and engaged as we work together to build a brighter future for all! A big thank you to the NAMI Media volunteer team for their creativity, dedication, and hard work in keeping our community connected.
As we step into 2025, let’s continue to support one another, celebrate our successes, and strive for even greater heights. Thank you for being part of this journey, and here’s to a year filled with opportunities, connections, and unforgettable memories!
Enjoy the read!
Rita Eghujovbo
Publicity Secretary, NAMI
President Vera Keyede’s New Year Message
Congratulations to His Royal Majesty, Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade As New Alaafin
The Nigeria Association of Manitoba Inc. (NAMI) proudly congratulates His Royal Majesty, Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, on his prestigious appointment as the Alaafin of Oyo, a first-class monarch in Oyo State, Nigeria. This is an extraordinary milestone not only for His Majesty and his family but also for the people of Oyo and our Nigerian community here in Manitoba.
Owoade’s emergence followed the approval of Governor Seyi Makinde.
A statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, stated that Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, after thorough consultations and divinations, has been recommended by the Oyomesi and approved by the Governor of Oyo State.
Celebrating Kenny Daodu: One of Manitoba’s 100 Top Fascinating People of 2024!
NAMI congratulates one of our esteemed community leaders, Kenny Daodu, popularly known as “Auntie Kenny,” on her recent recognition as one of “The 100 Top Fascinating Manitobans 2024” by the Winnipeg Free Press.
Kenny’s tireless dedication as a coach, teacher, speaker, trainer, published author, and avid volunteer has left an indelible mark on Manitoba. Her contributions to volunteerism, advocacy, and community enhancement have been widely recognized, including her previous honour as a YWCA Women of Distinction Award winner.
In addition to her many roles, Kenny currently serves as the President of the Congress of Black Women of Manitoba, where she champions the empowerment, education, and rights of Black women in the province. Her impact extends far and wide, inspiring countless individuals with her unwavering commitment to uplifting others.
Reflecting on her achievement, Kenny shared, “I am blessed and humbled. Thank you, Manitoba!”
NAMI celebrates this well-deserved recognition and applauds Auntie Kenny for her remarkable contributions to our community. Her story is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and leadership.
Congratulations, Auntie Kenny, you are an inspiration to us all!
Abiodun Adetu Honoured with Business Excellence Award at the 2024 CVEA Ceremony Winnipeg, Manitoba – December 22, 2024
NAMI proudly celebrates one of its own, Abiodun Adetu, the Director of Socials, on her outstanding achievement at the 2024 Canada Vendors Entrepreneurs Award (CVEA) ceremony held on December 21, 2024, in Ontario. Abiodun, founder of Naija Market Day, publisher of KARA magazine, and CEO of Babsomo Communications, received the prestigious Business Excellence Award, making history as the first Manitoban to be honoured in the event’s five-year history.
Naija Market Day, a visionary initiative by Abiodun, has grown from its humble beginnings in Winnipeg to a dynamic cultural and entrepreneurial platform with events in Brandon and Calgary. With its mission of “bringing Africa closer to the world,” Naija Market Day has provided African entrepreneurs and artisans with opportunities to thrive while fostering cultural exchange. Plans are already underway to expand the initiative to eight more cities across Canada in 2025.
The award ceremony, organized by CVEA founder Maryam Muritala, celebrated outstanding contributions to business and community. Distinguished attendees included MC Morris, Hon. Charmaine Williams, Lady Ariyike Akinbobola, Councillor Ayo Owodunni, and other notable figures. Alongside Abiodun, other awardees such as Shalewa Onayemi of Naijapreneur Canada and Silverline Onyenowu of Hair Regenesis were recognized for their exceptional achievements.
During her acceptance speech, Abiodun shared:
“I am deeply honored to receive this award. Naija Market Day started as a dream to connect people through culture and commerce, and it has grown beyond my imagination. This recognition is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and the incredible support of the African community across Canada.”
The NAMI President and Executive Committee extend their heartfelt congratulations to Abiodun Adetu for this well-deserved recognition. Her success is a source of pride and inspiration to our community, showcasing the transformative power of vision and leadership.
As Abiodun prepares to take Naija Market Day to greater heights in 2025, NAMI celebrates her dedication to fostering economic growth, cultural representation, and community impact.
For more information on Naija Market Day’s 2025 expansion and Abiodun Adetu’s inspiring journey, visit www.NaijaMarketDay.com or contact info@babsomocommunications.com.
Congratulations to Terry Duguid on His New Role as Minister of Sport and Prairies Economic Development
NAMI proudly congratulates Terry Duguid, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, on his well-deserved appointment as Minister of Sport and Prairies Economic Development Canada.
Terry Duguid’s remarkable career in public service reflects his unwavering commitment to his constituents and the broader Canadian community. From his early days as a city councilor pioneering Winnipeg’s blue box recycling program to his leadership in sustainable development and infectious disease initiatives, Terry has always prioritized the needs of the people he serves.
A true community champion, Terry has consistently shown up for events and causes across Manitoba, embodying a spirit of service and accessibility. Whether attending local cultural events, supporting community programs, or advocating for important initiatives, Terry has earned a reputation as someone who is always present and willing to lend his voice and influence when called upon.
In his new role as Minister of Sport, Terry brings his family’s proud legacy in sports; his father’s and brother’s championship curling achievements, as inspiration to promote the unifying and health-promoting power of sports across Canada. As Minister of Prairies Economic Development Canada, he is poised to champion the Prairie provinces as economic and energy leaders, ensuring the region’s unique needs are addressed.
We are proud to see such a dedicated and community-focused leader take on these important responsibilities. Congratulations, Minister Duguid, on this new chapter in your inspiring journey. We wish you continued success as you represent and serve our province and country.
The Biobaku Family: Christmas Cheer and the Great Pajama Shortage!
Last Christmas, the Biobaku extended family set the internet abuzz with their adorable family photo in matching Christmas pajamas! The picture radiates love, unity, and festive cheer, but it also sparked some hilarious reactions across the Nigerian community.
Social media users jokingly declared, “Now we know why some of us couldn’t find Christmas pyjamas or ugly sweaters to buy—The Biobakus bought them all!”
The Biobaku family’s photo is not just a celebration of the holidays; it’s a beautiful reminder of the joy and warmth of togetherness during this special season. Their coordinated outfits and infectious smiles have inspired many families to start their matching outfit traditions for Christmas.
Here’s to spreading joy, laughter, and love, just like the Biobakus! Merry Christmas from NAMI to you and your family.
Did your family take a creative holiday photo too? Share it with us, and you could be featured in our next edition!
Experience the Rich Culture of Nigeria at the “Go to the Pavilions” Event in Brandon!
The vibrant Nigerian community will be proudly showcased at the upcoming “Go to the Pavilions” event in Brandon, Manitoba! This exciting cultural celebration promises to be a feast for the senses, with authentic Nigerian food, refreshing drinks, captivating music, dynamic dance performances, and a rich display of our cultural heritage.
This two-day event is an excellent opportunity to experience the warmth, creativity, and diversity of Nigeria right here in Manitoba. Whether you’re Nigerian or simply curious about our culture, this is an event you don’t want to miss.
Event Details:
📅 Dates: Friday, February 7, 2025 – Saturday, February 8, 2025
📍 Location: Brandon, Manitoba (venue details to be announced)
🎟️ Entry: FREE!
Join us for an unforgettable celebration of Nigerian culture and hospitality. Let’s come together to share our traditions and create lasting memories!
Don’t miss this chance to celebrate Nigeria and connect with our thriving community. Spread the word and see you there!
NAMI President Hosts Publicity Volunteer Team for a Thank You Dinner
The NAMI President, Vera Keyede, hosted the Publicity Volunteer Team to a special thank-you dinner, celebrating their incredible efforts and dedication throughout the year.
The team, known for their creativity and commitment, worked tirelessly to keep the community informed and engaged, including producing the NAMI Newsletter that highlights our events, achievements, and stories. Their efforts have been instrumental in amplifying the voice of the Nigerian community in Manitoba.
During the dinner, the NAMI President shared heartfelt appreciation, saying, “Your hard work, especially in crafting the NAMI Newsletter, has kept our members connected and inspired. Thank you for your passion and teamwork; it truly makes a difference.”
It was an evening of good food, laughter, and reflections on the milestones achieved together in 2024. Here’s to celebrating the team behind the scenes and looking forward to another impactful year!
PAY YOUR DUES
Members are encouraged to pay their 2022 annual dues promptly.
- Family $70
- Single $40
- Student and seniors $20
Interac can be sent to nami.manitoba@gmail.com
Please, add your email address to the narration so we can send you an acknowledgement.
Free Virtual Workshop
We will be hosting our first workshop on Importation Basics.
Come get your questions answered whether you’re just launching out or already in the business of bringing goods from the African continent into Canada.
Don’t miss out – details in flier.
It’s a free event, but registration is required.
Link here
Follow for more details
Please broadcast to family, friends and enemies 😃
Let’s Continue To Support Nami Scholarship Fund, Thank You!
NAMI appreciates a model that guarantees funds to the scholarship for our youth in perpetuity. We sincerely thank those who have donated, and we also encourage others to do the same. All year round, we encourage people in our community to visit The Winnipeg Foundation website to donate with a minimum of $10 to NAMI Scholarship Fund at the link here to support our community youth education which was inaugurated last year. “Make this donation in celebration, honour or memory of someone.” Thank you!
Empowering Women and Communities Through Financial Literacy
This module will introduce family support practitioners to the Each One, Teach One financial literacy program, provide an overview of the program’s benefits for women living on low incomes, and demonstrate how to reach out and build a sustainable partnership with their local Each One, Teach One representative.
Each One, Teach One is an innovative program where credit union staff deliver basic financial skills workshops in community settings. You can help empower women to reach their goals and strengthen their financial literacy skills by hosting Each One, Teach One workshops at your family support centre.
Click to watch the free training on financial literacy and other courses: Create an account here
Call for Content Submissions
Are you a creative voice from Africa? We’re looking for contributors from Ethiopia, Cameroon, Madagascar, Ghana, Rwanda, and beyond!
Categories:
- ScreenTalk: Movie reviews
- Money Moves: Finance tips
- Kara Teens Club: For teens, by teens
- Poems: Share your poetry
- Campus Chronicles: Student life stories
- Wellness Watch: Health & wellness tips
- Career Compass: Career guidance
- Sports On: Sports stories
📧 Send submissions to: Kara@babsomocommunications.com
Deadline: January 15th, 2025
Let’s showcase African stories together!
Free Sustainable Tour at the Leaf, Assiniboine Park
50 Pavilion Crescent
Click the link for dates and times of tour : Sustainability Tour at The Leaf | Assiniboine Park Conservancy
Free Job Training Manufacturing Production Worker Program (MITT & OFE)
Click for more details: MITT REDI Poster – Two Sides Cropped.pdf – Google Drive
Call 204-925-5283 or email redi@mitt.ca
Stay in the loop and never miss a beat!
Join our vibrant Nigerian community by signing up for our newsletter today. Get exclusive updates, event notifications, and valuable insights from NAMI delivered straight to your inbox. Don’t miss out on the latest happenings – subscribe now to be part of the conversation! #NAMI #CommunityConnection #StayInformed
Also follow us on Instagram and Facebook @namimanitoba
Stand Out From The Crowd
GET THE ATTENTION YOU NEED TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS, PRODUCTS AND SERVICES IN OUR COMMUNITY & BEYOND. OUR ADVERT RATES ARE VERY LOW AND CONSIDERABLE.
Please click here to advertise with us with good rates and fantastic offers to promote your business, products, and services on our website and social media platforms. For more information please contact us via email: publicitysecretarynami@gmail.com
Advertisement Rates
-
- Website Advert Rate: $300/annually
- Monthly Advert Rate: $40/monthly
- Weekly Community Update Promos: $25/week
- Weekly Newsletter: $25/week
Please follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for all events and weekly community updates. As always, thanks to everyone for continuing to help build community unity and prosperity.
Have a nice week!
FOOD FOR ALL PROGRAM
If food security is an issue, “Food for all Program” is a Food supply for all season. An initiative of C.A.C Rehoboth Christain Centre in partnership with Peace Wholeness Centre. See poster for details and more contact information or visit websites below. Thank you! www.peacewholenesscentre.com
