Hon. Terry Duguid, the Minister for Sports and Prairie Economic Development, paid a courtesy visit to the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owoade, last Friday. The visit was facilitated by Dr. (PhD) Uche Nwankwo, who played a crucial role in organizing this landmark meeting and ensuring meaningful discussions between both leaders.
The conversation centered on mutual interests between Nigeria and Canada, their new leadership roles, and the shared responsibility of prioritizing the well-being of their people. Minister Duguid reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to strengthening relations with Nigeria, especially within the Nigerian-Canadian community in Winnipeg, which is home to one of the largest Nigerian populations in Canada.
A key highlight of the meeting was the long-anticipated Canada-Nigeria direct flight service, a project that has been in the works for years.
Canada-Nigeria Air Service Agreement: A Historic Milestone
One of the most groundbreaking announcements during the visit was the confirmation that on March 7, 2025, Canada and Nigeria will officially sign an Air Service Agreement (ASA) to establish direct flight services between the two nations.
This initiative traces its roots back to a fundraising event organized by Dr. (PhD) Uche Nwankwo on May 21, 2023, where Damian Ikeokwu directly challenged Minister Duguid to work towards securing a direct flight route. In response, Minister Duguid acknowledged the importance of the request and pledged to advocate for it. Since then, key stakeholders, including Hon. Ayodele Odeyemi, Dr. (PhD) Uche Nwankwo, and the Minister himself, have worked tirelessly to turn this vision into reality.
The signing ceremony on March 7 will mark the first official step in this initiative. The second phase, already in progress, will focus on securing an operational agreement between Air Canada and a Nigerian carrier to launch the direct flight service.
This historic milestone is not just about convenience—it is a game-changer for economic growth, trade, and cultural exchange. The direct flight route will eliminate lengthy layovers and the need for detours through Ethiopia or Germany, making travel and business between the two nations much more accessible.
Minister Duguid expressed his deep appreciation to Dr. (PhD) Uche Nwankwo and Damian Ikeokwu for their bold advocacy in bringing this issue to the forefront, highlighting the power of community-driven initiatives in shaping impactful policies.
Yoruba Heritage & Winnipeg’s Royal Connection
The meeting also emphasized the global influence of the Yoruba people, with the Alaafin educating Minister Duguid on their rich history and widespread presence—not just in Nigeria, but also in Cuba, Brazil, and other African nations. The Yoruba culture continues to transcend borders, fostering deeper cultural appreciation and collaboration.
Interestingly, Winnipeg has gained a reputation as a city that produces Yoruba royalty! The Alaafin himself once worked with Manitoba Hydro, while his Princess has contributed over two decades to Canada’s healthcare system. This has sparked a common saying in the Nigerian-Canadian community:
“If you want to be a royal majesty, come and live in Winnipeg!” 👑
A Future of Stronger Canada-Nigeria Relations
As the meeting concluded, there was a shared sense of optimism and excitement for the future. The Alaafin of Oyo and Minister Duguid reaffirmed their commitment to fostering deeper diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties between their communities.
This visit was not just a historic moment—it was a stepping stone to even greater opportunities ahead. The spirit of unity and progress filled the room, leaving all in attendance inspired and hopeful for the journey ahead.
🎙 Reporter: Ayodele Odeyemi
📍 Africanad Media Correspondent
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