Hon. Bamidele Sulaimon, Executive Chairman of Surulere Local Government, has officially flagged off the  2024 Surulere Day celebration on Wednesday, 23rd of October, a momentous occasion that will bring together individuals from diverse cultural, ethnic, political, and religious backgrounds.

In his keynote speech, Sulaimon welcomed guests from far and near, saying, “What we are about to experience in Surulere, it is another innovation put up by myself and the Chairman of this committee with other notable leaders in Surulere for us to connect.”

He stated that he was highly elated to be part of this historic event, which aims to reconnect families, friends, and associates who have been separated for a long time.

He emphasized that Surulere Day is a celebration of unity, where people from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate their ancestral home. “We have all gathered with our ancestral home. This will avail us to reunite with family, friends, and associates that we have not seen in a long time.”

He noted that Surulere’s transformation from a small middle-class residential area to a sophisticated hub for commerce, entertainment, and sports is worthy of celebration. “Originally, the people were relocated to Surulere, and like the name implies, Surulere meaning Patience is Rewarding. What began as a small middle-class residence then has strived to become one of the most sophisticated areas in Lagos City and in Nigeria as a whole.”

He stressed the significance of Surulere’s central location, making it a hub for commerce, entertainment, and sports residential activities. “It is a commercial nav centre. It is a home to people from various ethnic backgrounds.”

Sulaimon also acknowledged the presence of notable leaders who have ties to Surulere, including the President, Governor of Lagos State, and prominent business figures like Otedola and Dangote. “Most of our notable leaders pass through Surulere, either residential or work, we are connecting everybody.”

He emphasized that Surulere Day is not just about individuals, but about the community as a whole. “This is not about me. It’s not about everyone; it’s about Surulere.”

He noted that the celebration is inspired by other successful carnivals, such as the Ojude Oba day, Calabar carnival, the Durbar in the North and Nothing Hill Carnival in London. “Today, we are putting the fruit of liberty on the ground. As we hope that, just like the other carnivals survived, it is sustained for generations unborn to celebrate.”

Finally, he stressed the importance of unity and connection, saying, “We are all united to one purpose, which is the Surulere Day.” He then flagged off the celebration, wishing all Surularians a happy Surulere Day.

Ms Gbajabiamila, Chairman of the Surulere Day committee, proudly declared Surulere is the “leader of the world” due to its impressive track record of producing influential individuals, including President Tinubu and the First Lady.

In her remarks, Ms Gbajabiamila highlighted the significance of Surulere Day, emphasizing its potential to bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds. She commended Hon. Sulaimon, Chairman of Surulere Local Government, for wholeheartedly embracing the event.

Hon. Desmond Elliott, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Surulere constituency 1 has called on successful individuals who have passed through Surulere to support the upcoming Surulere Day celebration. The event, which has been a long time coming, aims to showcase the community’s achievements and strengths.
According to Elliott, Surulere has produced many successful Nigerians, and it’s time to celebrate this achievement. “We have so many people who have been successful in Nigeria today that have passed through Surulere,” he said.
The Surulere Day celebration will be a five-day event, and Elliott assured that it will be a wonderful experience. While keeping some details under wraps, he promised that the event will have much to offer. The State Assembly has pledged its full support to make Surulere Day a memorable occasion in Nigeria.

He appeal to those who have benefited from Surulere’s resources and community, encouraging them to contribute to the celebration’s success. By supporting the event, they can help make Surulere Day an unforgettable experience.

In his remarks, Hon. Idris Aregbe Special Adviser to Governor of Lagos State on Tourism, Arts and Culture emphasized the significance of the celebration, stating that it’s a project that will showcase the community’s strength in music, fashion, art, and sculpture.

He noted that Surulere is a city that represents a template for believers and Nigeria, highlighting its impact on people’s lives.

He expressed his passion for the people of Surulere, acknowledging the abundance of talent in the community. He appealed to the media and stakeholders to support the event, ensuring Surulere’s continued leadership in Lagos and Nigeria.

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