The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in the Federal Republic of Nigeria hosted a formal reception on Monday, 2 December 2025, at the Intercontinental Hotel Abuja to commemorate the 54th National Day of the UAE – Eid Al Etihad.
His Excellency Salem Saeed Musabbeh Al Mahyoubi Al Shamsi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Nigeria, received guests in the hotel’s Grand Ballroom, which was elegantly decorated in the national colours of the UAE and Nigeria.
The ceremony commenced with a refined instrumental performance of the national anthems of Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates, rendered on saxophone by Abbey Sax and on violin by Eusebius Kamalu, earning sustained applause from the distinguished audience.
In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Al Shamsi recalled the historic events of 2 December 1971, when six emirates – Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah – united under the leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan to form the United Arab Emirates. Ras Al Khaimah acceded to the federation on 10 February 1972, completing the union of the seven emirates. The Ambassador highlighted the extraordinary progress achieved in the intervening 54 years, transforming the UAE into a global centre for commerce, innovation, tourism and diplomacy.
The keynote address was delivered by the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who underlined the strength of bilateral relations between Nigeria and the UAE and expressed appreciation for the UAE’s continued investment and cooperation across multiple sectors.
Among the distinguished guests were:
- The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu
- Honourable Minister of Interior, Hon. Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo
- Honourable Minister for Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande
- Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim
- Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite
- Honourable Minister for Arts, Culture, Tourism & Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musawa
- Nigerian entrepreneur and son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mr Seyi Tinubu
- Former Nigerian football legend, Mr Kanu Nwankwo
Guests were thereafter invited to a formal dinner offering an extensive selection of Emirati and international cuisine. A highlight of the evening was a ceremonial raffle draw generously sponsored by the Embassy and its partners. Prizes included two Emirates Airline Business Class return tickets to Dubai, several latest-generation iPhone 16 devices, and substantial cash awards.
The reception brought together members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, business leaders, cultural influencers and sporting icons, underscoring the deepening partnership and enduring friendship between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates.
Diplomatic Watch Magazine extends its congratulations to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and to the government and people of the United Arab Emirates on the occasion of their 54th National Day.
