Under Jain’s leadership, the ICA organized Diwali celebrations in Lagos, a significant event that attracted over 6,000 attendees, including prominent Indian celebrities and Bollywood stars like Nora Fatehi and Amit Mishra
Sanjay Jain, the President of the Indian Cultural Association (ICA), is dedicated to fostering cultural integration and strengthening bilateral ties between Nigeria and India. The ICA, recognized as the premier association of Indians in Nigeria, operates under the motto ‘Brotherhood through Culture.’
Under Jain’s leadership, the ICA organized Diwali celebrations in Lagos, a significant event that attracted over 6,000 attendees, including prominent Indian celebrities and Bollywood stars like Nora Fatehi and Amit Mishra. The festival, held at Tafawa Balewa Square, Onikan, Lagos on November 17, 2023, marked the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Notably, the funds raised during the event were dedicated to charitable endeavors benefiting the needy in Nigeria.
Jain expressed gratitude for the warm welcome Indians have received in Nigeria, emphasizing the reciprocal relationship between the Indian diaspora and the Nigerian populace. He acknowledged the contributions of Indians to Nigeria’s economic development and praised the Nigerians for their openness and hospitality, making India feel like a home away from home.
Highlighting ICA’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, Jain outlined the association’s involvement in various projects aimed at giving back to the society that embraced them. The association received the prestigious ‘Pravasi Bhartiya Samman Award’ from the Government of India in 2021, a historic recognition for its contributions in Nigeria.
Jain, also the Chairman of The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), Nigeria Chapter, emphasized the association’s active participation in local Nigerian community upliftment, cultural events, and festivals. The overarching goal is to promote harmony, understanding, and mutual respect between the Indian and Nigerian communities.
Jain’s positive experiences and interactions with Nigerians have strengthened his affection for the country, making him a proud advocate for the enduring friendship between India and Nigeria
Looking ahead, Jain expressed optimism about the potential for increased trade between India and Nigeria, with President Bola Tinubu’s leadership contributing to stronger bilateral relations. He underscored the association’s role in bridging cultural gaps and fostering positive relationships between the two nations.
In addition to his role in the Indian Cultural Association, Jain is actively involved in charitable and social activities through various organizations in Nigeria. He appreciates the communal spirit of the Indian community and their eagerness to adopt practices from the Nigerian community, emphasizing the strong bond that has developed over the years.
Jain, who has been living in Nigeria for over three decades, holds the title of Asiwaju of Matoriland, Mushin, bestowed upon him by the Oba of Mushin in 2008.
He and his family consider Nigeria their home, with his children studying and thriving in the country. Jain’s positive experiences and interactions with Nigerians have strengthened his affection for the country, making him a proud advocate for the enduring friendship between India and Nigeria.
************************************************************************
Readers