By Chinasa Nwankwo
The Bangladesh High Commission in Nigeria has commemorated the 2024 “July Uprising”, in the country, honoured its martyrs and reaffirmed its commitment to democracy, justice, equality and human dignity.
The event also featured a one-minute silence for the martyrs, prayers, as well as documentary screening, on Wednesday, in Abuja.
Messages from Bangladesh’s President, Hafiz Ahmad, Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, Foreign Minister, Dr Khalilur Rahman, and State Minister, Shama Islam were also read.
The country’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Miah Kabir, said the occasion provided an opportunity to remember those who sacrificed their lives during the uprising.
Kabir said the sacrifices of the martyrs should remain a source of inspiration as Bangladesh pursued justice, democracy, equality, rule of law and national unity.
“The most meaningful way to honour the loyal Bangladeshis is to uphold the ideals for which they sacrificed their lives for justice, democracy, equality, rule of law, human rights, governance and national unity,” he said.
Kabir noted that Bangladesh and Nigeria could deepen their relationship beyond trade and commercial engagements to include culture, youth empowerment and opportunities for both countries to learn from history.
“We will continue our engagement to deepen our relationship, not only in terms of commercial trade, but also in culture and empowerment of youth,” he said.
The high commissioner expressed appreciation to Nigerian guests for identifying with Bangladesh on the occasion, describing their presence as a reflection of the relationship between both countries.
The Guest Speaker, Mrs. Rachael Neboh, Deputy Director and Head of Virtual Library Services, National Library of Nigeria, described the uprising as a demonstration of youth power.
Neboh, said the experience showed that young people could achieve significant outcomes when united by a clear and purposeful cause.
“The July uprising is the voice of the youth. The voice of the youth is very strong. The voice of the youth is their power,” she said.
She urged Nigerian youths to reflect on how they use their voices, particularly through social media, encouraging them to deploy their influence toward positive causes and national development.
Neboh cautioned young people against spreading unverified information, stressing the need to verify every information before sharing because of the power of news and social media.
“Please, use your social media handles to post positive things. But check whatever information you want to send. Check it. Verify it,” she said.
She also challenged young Nigerians to take responsibility for their personal development by acquiring relevant skills, updating their knowledge and developing innovative abilities for leadership.
Neboh said young people should recognise their responsibility in building the future and preparing themselves for leadership.
She said the events in Bangladesh demonstrated that a united youth population could transform seemingly difficult situations, urging Nigerian youths to use their collective strength constructively.
Bangladesh High Commissioner to Nigeria, Miah Kabir, with guests during the July Uprising celebration in Abuja on Wednesday.(NAN)
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2024 July Uprising began as a student-led movement before developing into a wider mass movement involving citizens from different sections of society.
The movement became a defining chapter in Bangladesh’s recent history.
Its anniversary provides an opportunity to remember those who lost their lives and reflect on democracy, youth participation and responsible citizenship.
The Abuja event combined remembrance with reflection on democratic values, youth empowerment, responsible use of information, national development and the continuing relationship between Nigeria and Bangladesh.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)