The Consul General of Cameroon in Lagos, Bibi Lobe, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to national unity, peaceful coexistence and stronger bilateral ties with Nigeria as Cameroon celebrated 54 years of “unity in diversity” in Lagos.

‎Speaking during the commemoration of Cameroon’s National Unity Day, Lobe traced the historical evolution of Cameroon and explained that the country celebrates unity rather than independence because of its unique colonial and political history.

‎According to her, Cameroon’s borders were first established in July 1884 when German explorer Busta Mattega signed agreements with local leaders in the coastal region, creating the German protectorate of Cameroon.

S‎he explained that after World War I, Germany lost control of the territory, leading the League of Nations to partition Cameroon between Britain and France in 1919.

Lobe noted that French Cameroon later gained independence as the Republic of Cameroon on January 1, 1960, while British Cameroons, following a United Nations-supervised plebiscite in 1961, voted to join the newly independent Republic of Cameroon.

She said the reunification eventually led to the formation of the Federal Republic of Cameroon before the federal structure was dissolved in 1972 to create the United Republic of Cameroon.

The envoy added that although the country was renamed the Republic of Cameroon in 1984, the celebration of national unity has remained central to the nation’s identity.

“We are not celebrating independence. We are celebrating unity in diversity because diversity is very dear to us,” she said.

The Consul General also expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government for providing a peaceful and conducive environment for Cameroonians living in the state.

She cited the conduct of Cameroon’s presidential election in Lagos on October 12 last year as an example of the freedom enjoyed by Cameroonians in Nigeria.

According to her, four polling units were established at the consulate where Cameroonians voted freely and transparently.

“I can even say that it is only in Lagos that all the 12 candidates received votes. It means that we are very free here politically, but united as a country,” she stated.

Lobe further commended the cordial relationship between Cameroon and Nigeria, noting that cooperation between both countries remains strong under the leadership of the Cameroonian High Commission in Abuja.

She described the ties between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Cameroon as one of the strongest in recent years, adding that the event was attended by senior officials from both nations.

‎Diplomats representing various nations such as Italy, Austria, Germany and Denmark, were present.

Among dignitaries present were Colonel Olatipo, who led the Nigerian delegation, and Major William Oghene, who headed the Cameroonian delegation.

Secretary to the Lagos State Government (SSG), Barr. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, commended the celebration, describing it as colourful and successful.

The minister said the Consul General had demonstrated strong commitment to promoting friendship, peace and cooperation between Cameroon and Nigeria.

According to the minister, the Cameroonian envoy has continued to foster cordial relations between both countries through diplomacy, cultural engagement and institutional collaboration.

She added that Cameroon maintains strong relationships with Nigeria in several sectors, including military cooperation, and described the Consul General as “a true diplomat” who is deeply connected to the people and culture of her country.

Artist, Jeki Esso, also highlighted Cameroon’s cultural and historical significance during the event.

‎She said Cameroon remains a culturally rich nation that has contributed immensely to global development through music, literature, science and the arts.

According to her, the country has produced renowned musicians, scientists and writers whose works continue to shape global conversations.

She, however, noted that Cameroon, like many African nations, still faces challenges in telling its own story on the global stage.

‎Esso stressed the importance of strengthening cultural institutions, encouraging dialogue and investing in platforms that preserve African heritage and identity.

‎The artist also urged Africans and the international community to explore and support African cultural institutions, noting that a nation’s strength is measured by what it contributes to the world.

The event featured cultural performances, artistic exhibitions and literary presentations aimed at promoting unity and development through art and culture. (Guardian)