The Anambra State Association Finland (ASA Finland), in collaboration with ASA Europe, proudly hosted the inaugural “ASA Europe Convention” in Helsinki, Finland. This landmark event, spanning from August 10th to August 12th, 2018, marked a significant gathering of the Anambra community, attracting over 1000 attendees from across Europe. The convention was a rich tapestry of Anambra culture and heritage, featuring a diverse range of activities including a business conference, a vibrant cultural carnival, and the unveiling of the ASA Finland 2018 brochure.
The convention was ceremoniously inaugurated by ASA Finland’s chairman, Engr Anthony-Claret Onwutalobi. In his opening remarks, Engr Onwutalobi extended a warm welcome to all participants and underscored the event’s objectives of fostering unity and collaboration among Nigerians in Finland. His message highlighted the critical role of collective effort in achieving success and overcoming challenges.
A major highlight of the convention was the business conference, which served as a dynamic platform for Anambra citizens residing in Europe to engage in networking and discussions aimed at promoting economic development and investment in Anambra State. The conference facilitated meaningful exchanges and the sharing of innovative ideas to advance business opportunities.
The cultural carnival was a spectacular showcase of the rich Anambra cultural heritage, featuring exhilarating traditional Igbo dances, enchanting music, and delectable cuisine. The event provided a unique opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in the traditions and customs of Anambra, further strengthening their connection to their roots.
The launch of the ASA Finland 2018 brochure was another significant moment of the convention. Introduced by Chief Christian Onuorah, President of ASA Europe, and Engr Claret-Anthony Onwutalobi, the brochure serves as an extensive guide to Anambra State, offering insights into its business landscape, tourist attractions, and educational institutions.
Notable speakers, including Chief Christian Onuorah, addressed the gathering, shedding light on the challenges faced by Anambra residents in Europe and emphasizing the importance of unity and collaborative efforts to navigate these challenges successfully.
The convention was enlivened by a variety of cultural performances, including a moving traditional Igbo dance and a performance by the son of the late Igbo high-life music maestro, “Oliver de Coque”. The masquerade dance, a symbolic representation of Ndi Anambra’s cultural identity, was a particular highlight, captivating the audience and fostering a sense of communal pride.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Engr Anthony-Claret Onwutalobi, who reiterated the significance of the convention as a platform for celebrating Anambra culture and heritage. He expressed gratitude to all participants for their contributions to the event’s success and for their commitment to promoting unity and cooperation among Nigerians in Finland.
The ASA Europe Convention emerged as a pivotal event for the Nigerian community in Europe, offering a space for celebration, networking, and cultural exchange. It also served as a catalyst for promoting business and investment in Anambra State, reinforcing the bond among Anambra citizens and highlighting the collective strength of the Nigerian diaspora in Europe. The success of the convention underscores the importance of such gatherings in fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose among Nigerians abroad.