Harboursandport.com: Lagos - In a dazzling display of cultural splendour and international camaraderie, the Grand Procession of the Lord Mayor's Show unfolded on the streets of London, marking a historic moment with the participation of Africa for the first time in 805 years. The magnificent occasion marked the induction of the newly-appointed Lord Mayor, Michael Mainelli, through a spectacular parade.
In a
strategic move to foster global exchange, the procession welcomed the
participation of countries outside the UK, including China, Italy, Hong Kong,
Switzerland, and Nigeria represented by Lagos State. The joint delegation from
the state & EnterpriseNGR was led by the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide
SanwoOlu, and co-chaired by Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, who serves as the Chairman
of EnterpriseNGR and Coronation Group Limited.
Coronation
Group – Africa’s investment management powerhouse - proudly took the centre
stage as lead sponsors, underscoring its commitment to supporting platforms
that bridge cultures and foster global collaboration.
Aigbovbioise
Aig-Imoukhuede, the Managing Director of Coronation Asset Management and
President of the Fund Managers Association of Nigeria (FMAN), joined the parade.
He stated,
"Coronation Group is honoured to be woven into a rich tapestry of cultures
that reflect centuries of collective effort to develop commerce, communities,
and charities. Through our collaboration with Lagos State and EnterpriseNGR, we
are proud to showcase our vibrant Nigerian culture that exudes intellectual
depth, passion, ambition, and the strength of enterprise.”
The Grand
Procession, a 2-mile-long spectacle unfolded in two stages – the outward
journey to the Royal Courts of Justice, followed by a short break, and the
return procession to Mansion House.
Joining this
year’s parade, were over 2,000 participants from livery companies which are the
heart of the City of London, celebrating their respective trades, crafts, and
professions, embodying the dignity of work and the significance of London's
financial district.
The Lagos
team stole the spotlight on the streets of London with their iconic Eyo
masquerades, captivating afrobeats music, and a parade float that displayed
Lagos’ remarkable strides in the transportation sector, shaping the present and
charting the future. A fusion of the Lagos Blue Line, ‘Danfo’ buses, ‘Kekes,’
and iconic sites like the Lekki bridge, the parade float was an ode to these
accomplishments.
In a
remarkable continuation of festivities, the Visiting Cities’ Banquet, organized
by the City of Zurich, Switzerland, unfolded after the parade. This
Swiss-influenced livery-style dinner brought together participating cities,
including Lagos, celebrating their strategic significance to the City of London
and fostering friendships. The evening's toasts and ceremonies affirmed
enduring bonds in the spirit of trade, goodwill, and diplomacy.
During the
Banquet, the Lord Mayor, Michael Mainelli echoing the global theme of the
event, emphasized the importance of building global partnerships for success.
“The Lord
Mayor's Show stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering lasting bonds
across borders. Together, we embark on a journey of shared success, embracing
diversity and building a future where collaboration knows no bounds,"
remarked the Lord Mayor.
Monday's
festivities include the Governor of Lagos State and Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede
attending a high-profile banquet with distinguished UK VVIP guests, including
the Prime Minister and the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Additionally,
the InvestLagos dinner will see Lagos State and EnterpriseNGR hosting
stakeholders from Nigeria and the diaspora, promoting business opportunities,
and fostering bilateral relationships under the theme "Lagos is Open for
Business."
The Lord
Mayor's Show Parade and Visiting Cities’ Banquet mark a glorious chapter in the
history of London, celebrating diversity, trade, and the spirit of global
partnership. As the city continues to embrace cultures from around the world,
Coronation Group Limited remains proud to be at the forefront of supporting
platforms that position Nigeria as Africa’s premier financial market.
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