Celebrating Lebanon at 68

Lebanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Iman Younes expressed gratitude to Nigeria and Nigerians for being very hospitable to Lebanese who have found a home here and have known no other place as such. He commended Presidents Michel Sleiman of Lebanon and Goodluck Jonathan for their commitment to a fair and just society, saying both leaders maintained […]

Lebanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Iman Younes expressed gratitude to Nigeria and Nigerians for being very hospitable to Lebanese who have found a home here and have known no other place as such.

He commended Presidents Michel Sleiman of Lebanon and Goodluck Jonathan for their commitment to a fair and just society, saying both leaders maintained progress and stability in their countries during these turbulent times.

Relations between Lebanon and Nigeria can be traced to 1890 when Nigeria opened her doors to Lebanese emigrants who became actively involved in the economic and social life of Nigeria. For the hospitality Lebanese enjoyed from Nigerians, Iman said a Nigeria-Lebanese Hospital in Kano wholly financed by a Lebanese businessman has been established.

The climax of the night for many of the guests was the announcement by the envoy of the introduction of visa waiver for Nigerians.

This, she said, has encouraged them to visit Lebanon more frequently and enjoy touristic attractions. According to her, this has already encouraged many Nigerians to take advantage of the conducive economic climate and solid banking sector to invest in Lebanon, which she said could only bring both countries closer.

While thanking and welcoming the Lebanese community for their warm unwavering support, she acknowledged the presence of other diplomats, top government officials as well as Lebanese army generals who were delegates to a conference on military medical care.

For many like Eme Kurz, who is born of a Lebanese father but has never visited Lebanon, the evening was an opportunity to bond and reunite with Lebanon.