The Surulere community came together on Friday at the NPA Hall, Eko Club, Bode Thomas, Lagos, for the Surulere Connect Independence Fiesta, an event organised by Surulere Connect Global to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

The gathering brought together residents, students, and schools from across the district for a day of cultural and educational activities.

The organisers said the event was intended to foster unity, revive community spirit, and reintroduce educational and socially engaging activities that had historically defined Surulere’s cultural heritage.

Activities ranged from literary and debate competitions to mock news sessions, impromptu speeches, dance contests, and fashion parades.

Founder of Surulere Connect Global, Ms Tayo Gbajabiamila, described the celebration as an opportunity to strengthen communal ties and encourage educational development among the youth.

“Celebrating Independence Day in this manner strengthens our bonds and helps young people appreciate the values of education and unity,” she said. “It’s a reminder that despite our ethnic and religious differences, we are stronger together.”

Dr (Hon.) Adetunji Adedeji, Public Relations Officer of Surulere Connect Global, highlighted the event’s connection to Surulere’s cultural past.

“This event takes us back to the early days of Surulere. Remember Shalamar, Dynasty, Earth, Wind & Fire at the National Theatre? The literary and debating societies, mock news, and fashion parades? We are bringing back those memories. Surulere lo npe ibi (Surulere is calling us back),” he said.

The programme also featured performances by Surulere Connect Academy, including electric slides in Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo, and a dance drama titled God Save Nigeria, following a previous performance led by Dr Adedeji titled ISE NI OGUN ISE. Secondary school students participated in drama, dance, poem rendition, and quiz competitions, while older residents engaged in traditional dance and music sessions reminiscent of past decades.

At the conclusion of the debate competition, Grace Polytechnic’s Department of Business Administration was declared the winner, with the Department of Computer Science securing the runner-up position. In the quiz contest, Zumratul Islammiya Senior Secondary School emerged first with 38 points, followed by Ijeshatedo Senior Secondary School with 33 points.

All participating students and schools received certificates acknowledging their participation.

The Surulere Connect Independence Fiesta combined elements of cultural nostalgia with academic engagement, highlighting the community’s ongoing commitment to educational excellence and collective celebration of Nigeria’s independence.