The annual Green and White Affair, hosted by the Nigerian Students Association featured about 100 people participating in a variety of Nigerian Culture. The event was presented with a large set of cultural expressions and brilliant integration of modern and old-age traditions.
The Green and White Affair was held to celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day on October 1, 1960. The event was set to begin at 6 pm in Sage Dining Hall, but it really started at 7 pm—allowing Nigerians in the United States to celebrate the holiday at the same time as those in Nigeria. A countdown started taking into account the time difference.
The main event featured keynote speaker Tony Clemente, the president of the Association of Nigeria in the Capital District. His speech was motivating and stimulating, discussing the different conflicts that occurred in Nigeria’s history. Similarities were drawn from other historical events portraying the continuing struggle for peace. “You must be proactive and be catalysts for change; do not wait for things to happen, there are many more hills to climb,” said Tony Clemente, encouraging all to be ardent citizens and motivators for productive reform. Dr. Kenneth Durgans, Vice Provost of Institute Diversity followed with a talk about the importance of such an event showcasing different cultures and educating the public about other nations.
Following the opening remarks, the Nigerian food awaited the many attendees.
A cultural facts display, prepared and presented by graduate student Eloka Umeh, showed some of the highlights of Nigeria. About 140 million people live in Nigeria, making up over 250 different ethnic groups. About half the country follows Islam, while others follow Christianity and animistic traditions. The Nigerian landscape is a very special one, with unspoiled natural ecosystems, making Nigeria a prime tourist haven for the natural explorer.
Josh Reid ’08 followed the informative session with a poetry-slam style reading, in which he focused on bringing together urban culture and youth consciousness.
“His poetry collided into an emphatic series of lines,” said Rahul Gupta ’08. The slam was aimed at bringing the African culture and the African-American culture together and making the case for the need of a world consciousness.
The Rensselaer Nigerian Student Association, the Indian Student Association, and the Pakistani Student Association all performed in a flawless exhibition of traditional Nigerian dance while playing Punjabi mixes. The Step Team followed with a captivating unique step show, where everyone moved in unison. The Nigerian drumming session, coinciding with traditional African dance, filled the room with energy.
Overall, the event successfully promoted and educated the audience. “We are an organization that promotes the very rich Nigerian culture through various social activities at Rensselaer and bringing back alumni to take part in the ongoing process of education,” said Ikenna Okoli ’07, the founder and president of NSA.
