On May 9, the Eurocham Nigeria was invited by the EU Delegation in Abuja to join the rest of the EU family to observe Europe Day 2023. A colourful reception hosted by Ambassador Samuela Isopi at her residence not only reflected how far Europe – indeed humanity – has come since the Schumann Vision was espoused, but also underlined how relevant the ideals and values that shaped the EU remain in our world today.
Europe Day celebrates the achievements of the EU within and outside Europe. “It is so important that we make time – at least once a year – to celebrate the European Union and the creative idea which brought us together; an idea we want to spread, to inspire and motivate others about the importance of coming together as the best way to achieve peace, prosperity and sustainable development,” Ambassador Isopi said. She paid tribute to “our Ukrainian friends, who are defending their freedom and these same values with their own lives.”
Europe Day 2023 was significant in more respects. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Ambassador Isopi observed that the Schumann idea and the values of freedom, peace, cooperation and solidarity, are today more relevant than ever.
Expressing the readiness of the European Union and its Member States to work with the new Nigerian Administration on building a win-win partnership to the benefit of the peoples of Nigeria and Europe, she said, “a democratic, peaceful, strong and prosperous Nigeria is in the interest of Europe and the world.”
