By Ozioruva Aliu

BENIN CITY – A Milton, Ontario, Canada-based Nigeria, Edosa Adams-Idode has said that several activities, including a novel Naija Fest held every October 1 and other activities, have been what she and others have been using to preserve Nigeria’s culture and values while abroad.

She advised those planning to join them abroad to be bold, be truthful, ready to earn among others, adding that the October 1 festival has been vital to sustaining Nigerian values and culture.

She said “Preserving our heritage is essential. Nigerians carry a deep sense of pride, resilience, and hope. By staying rooted in values like respect and commitment, we embrace hard work and the belief that things will improve.

“Self-reflection is key you cannot know where you are going without understanding where you have been. Be authentic, show kindness, volunteer, and embrace new experiences, from food to art. My “Newcomer Nuggets” are: Be bold: Tell yourself the truth. Be eager to learn. Be ready for change.”

On Naija Fest, she said “Cultural celebrations like Naija Fest on October 1st showcase our rich heritage through arts, fashion, music, and culinary delights. They unite the community, celebrate diversity, and boost Milton’s economy through entrepreneurship.”

She said in 2023, during Black History Month, “we showcased children’s creative talents at the Holcim Gallery alongside Canadian artists” and that these artworks were later displayed in a hospital in 2023 and 2024.

On combining work as a lawyer and community service, Adams-Idode said “Leadership demands vision, sacrifice, and humility. As a lawyer, promoting social justice is a critical pathway to change. I believe we all have a shared responsibility to hold everyone to the same standards. To answer your question, I can balance my professional work and commitment to Community and family with a supportive, close-knit family and spouse.”

She said Milton has one of the highest and fastest-growing populations of youths in Ontario. “Unfortunately, many youths do not see themselves represented in our local government, and we need to change this trajectory. We should have a designated Board (Council) to address the unique perspective that immigrant communities bring to governance, Arts/Culture, and Employment and promote Youth Empowerment.”