Nigeria Must Lead the Black Race, Newly Inducted US Mayor Tells Kegites Club

Nigeria Must Lead the Black Race, Newly Inducted US Mayor Tells Kegites Club

In a powerful affirmation of Nigeria’s global role, the Mayor of Linden, New Jersey, Hon. Derek Armstead, has declared that Nigeria holds the pivotal responsibility of leading the black race to a future of greatness.

Mayor Armstead made this declaration over the weekend upon his induction into the Kegites Club, the largest socio-cultural club in Nigerian universities, during its 2nd Winter Gyration of the Americana Archaivar Plus Convergence in New Jersey.

The event, a vibrant celebration of African culture, saw both Mayor Armstead and a fellow US Councilman, Hon. Alfred D. Mohammed, formally welcomed into the club’s fold. Adorned in the club’s traditional attire and participating in its unique “one finger salute,” the American politicians were deeply immersed in the rich traditions of the organization.

During his address, Mayor Armstead, who was given the Yoruba name “Adewale” by a traditional ruler present, connected the history of the African diaspora to the present-day potential of Nigeria.

While acknowledging the painful legacy of the slave trade that dispersed black people across the Americas and the Caribbean, he pointed to Nigeria’s vast population and the extraordinary achievements of its citizens worldwide as the foundation for its leadership role.

“I am happy to join this club,” Armstead stated. “I am aware of the giant strides that you people, my fellow brothers and sisters, are taking in the US and other parts of the world. You must also, however, remember that the emancipation of Africa lies squarely on the shoulders of Nigeria. If Nigeria leads positively, the rest of the black race will follow.”

His sentiment echoed a profound sense of homecoming, as he later expressed, **“My spirit and soul are at home with you guys. We are one, from the same source, the motherland.”

The councilman, Hon. Alfred D. Mohammed, who was given the name “Adetunji” and elevated to the position of club patron, was sworn in by one of the club’s most prominent leaders, World Chief Kenneth Abiodun Sorinmade. Chief Sorinmade reflected on the club’s five-decade legacy, which began with Nigerian university students gathering to celebrate African culture through folk songs and palm wine.

The two-day convergence, attended by over 200 members from the United States, United Kingdom, and Nigeria, was a vibrant display of drumming, dancing, and cultural pride, culminating in the announcement that the next World Gyration would be held in Indianapolis in 2026.