NAMI at 40: Celebrating Our Legacy, Inspiring Our Future
Forty years ago, a group of visionary Nigerians came together with a simple but powerful goal: to create a home away from home for Nigerians in Manitoba. Today, as the Nigerian Association of Manitoba Inc. (NAMI) marks its 40th anniversary, we celebrate a remarkable journey of community, culture, resilience, and impact.
For four decades, NAMI has served as a pillar of support for Nigerians and friends of Nigeria across Manitoba. We have welcomed newcomers, celebrated milestones, preserved our rich cultural heritage, fostered lifelong friendships, and built bridges between communities. Through every challenge and every triumph, NAMI has remained a symbol of unity and belonging.
As we reflect on our journey, we do so with immense pride. We celebrate the pioneers who laid the foundation, the leaders who carried the vision forward, and the countless volunteers, members, sponsors, and partners whose contributions have strengthened our community over the years.
Our story is one of growth. What began as a small gathering of Nigerians has evolved into a vibrant and respected organization that continues to make meaningful contributions to Manitoba’s multicultural landscape. From cultural celebrations and youth development initiatives to community engagement and charitable outreach, NAMI’s impact extends far beyond our membership.
While we honour our past, we are equally excited about the future.
The next chapter of NAMI will be defined by greater inclusion, stronger youth engagement, deeper community partnerships, and a renewed commitment to empowering the next generation of Nigerian-Canadians. We will continue to create opportunities for connection, celebrate our heritage with pride, and ensure that our association remains relevant, impactful, and welcoming for decades to come.
Forty years is a milestone worth celebrating, but it is also a reminder that our best days are still ahead.
To every member, volunteer, leader, partner, and supporter who has been part of this incredible journey, thank you. Your dedication has shaped our legacy and will continue to inspire our future.
Together, we celebrate 40 years of excellence. Together, we honour our roots. Together, we look ahead with confidence and excitement.
Happy 40th Anniversary, NAMI!
The legacy continues..
A MESSAGE FROM THE PREMIER
A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
A message from NAMI President
NAMI Annual Family Picnic 2026
Get ready for a day of fun, laughter, connection, and pure Naija vibes!
Date: August 1, 2026
Venue: 781 Crescent Drive
Bring your mats, lawn chairs, family, and friends as we come together to eat, network, dance, play games, and create wonderful memories.
There will be:
Music and dancing
Networking opportunities
Fun games for all ages
Bouncy castle for the kids
Vendors showcasing amazing products and services
And oh… yes o, there will be plenty of Naija-style fun and excitement for everyone!
Don’t miss this opportunity to relax, connect with the community, and enjoy a beautiful summer day with family and friends.
Its a free event, bring something special for your picnic experience.
Come ready to laugh, dance, mingle, and have a great time. Naija no dey carry last!
Be a part of the NAMI Youth Mentorship Program
Be a part of the NAMI Youth Mentorship Program
Volunteer as a mentor from July – December 2026 and help empower young Nigerian youth in Manitoba through guidance, support, and shared experiences.
Mentor applications are now open until July 20, 2026.
For more information or inquiries, please feel free to contact NAMI- info@nami-mb.ca
Celebrating Excellence at the Nigeria Professionals in Manitoba Awards Night
The Nigeria Professionals in Manitoba Awards Night was a powerful celebration of excellence, leadership, and the remarkable impact of Nigerians across Manitoba. The event highlighted the professionalism, achievements, and contributions of individuals who continue to excel in their respective fields while strengthening the communities they serve.
NAMI was proud to celebrate the recognition of our President, Vera Obehi Keyede, ACA, SCMP, CPA, CMA, as one of the distinguished award recipients. Her dedication to leadership, service, and community development continues to inspire many.
The evening featured an inspiring keynote address by Manitoba’s Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care, Uzoma Asagwara, and was attended by MP Terry Duguid and Mayor Scott Gillingham, reflecting the importance of collaboration in building stronger communities.
Congratulations to all the deserving award recipients recognized across various sectors. Your achievements make both Nigeria and Canada proud. We encourage all Nigerians in Manitoba to continue striving for excellence, making meaningful contributions, and serving as positive ambassadors of our community.
Thrive Abroad, Invest in Nigeria: Join the Conversation
Thrive Abroad, Invest in Nigeria: Join the Conversation
Join industry leaders and economic architects at the Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference (NIDEC) 2026. This event is a critical for those looking to bridge global aesthetics with technical mastery to drive cross-continental investment.
- Theme: Thrive Abroad, Invest in Nigeria.
- Dates: August 12th – 15th, 2026.
- Venue: Apollo Convention Center, Mississauga, Ontario.
This conference serves as a premier platform for the diaspora to move beyond local operations into the global economic landscape. Whether you are scaling a business or building a legacy, this is where strategy meets opportunity.
Connect for Enquiries, Exhibitions, or Sponsorships:
- Dr. Terab Abdulrahman: admin@nidcom.gov.ng
- Maryam Muritala: info@canadavendors.ca
- Rose Yakowa: Chancery@nigeriahcottawa.ca
AMFM Showcase
AMFM Showcase: Feature the African Movie Festival in Manitoba, running from September 14–20, 2026. This is a prime opportunity to witness Sovereign Storytelling on a cinematic scale.
Iri Ji New Yam Festival 2026
The Umunna Igbo Cultural Association of Manitoba Inc. invites you to a vibrant celebration of heritage and abundance at the Iri Ji New Yam Festival. This is a prime opportunity to witness Sovereign Storytelling through traditional dance, entertainment, and a profound display of our visual heritage.
- Date: July 25th, 2026
- Time: 3 PM – 10 PM
- Location: Franco-Manitoban Cultural Centre, 340 Provencher Blvd, Winnipeg
Experience: Traditional dance, cultural displays, and community connection
Tickets: Adults: $30 (Early Bird: $25). Children (6-17): $15
Upcoming Summer Events
July will be closed out with the Yoruba Festival on the 25th. Keep an eye out for more information on this event.
Naija Market Day
Naija Market Day brings culture without borders to True North Square on its Summer 2026 Tour.
- Date: Saturday, July 4th, 2026
- Time: 11:00 AM Prompt
- Location: True North Square | Graham Avenue, Winnipeg
- Features: Food, Fashion, Culture, and Music
Okin International Cultural Celebration: Our Culture, Our Heritage
Celebrate Anambra Heritage in Manitoba!
The Anambra State Association Manitoba Inc. proudly presents its maiden Anambra Day Festival & Gala Night a vibrant, two‑day celebration dedicated to honouring the rich cultural heritage, unity, and excellence of the Anambra people in Manitoba and beyond
NAMI Scholarship
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!
PAY YOUR DUES
Members are encouraged to pay their 2025 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.
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Have a nice week!
