International Friendship Day

International Friendship Day History

The International Day of Friendship is celebrated to promote friendship and understanding between nations, cultures, and individuals. In Nigeria, the day is marked with events and activities that foster unity and create awareness of the importance of friendship in building a better society. In Nigeria, the International Day of Friendship celebrations aim to bring people from various ethnic, religious, and social backgrounds together to promote peace and unity. The day's significance in Nigeria is underlined by the country's diverse population and the ongoing efforts towards national integration.

The International Day of Friendship was first proposed in 1958 by Dr. Ramón Artemio Bracho, a Paraguayan politician and peace activist. The United Nations officially recognized the day in 2011, recognizing the critical role of friendship in promoting peace, understanding, and unity.

Typical celebrations on the International Day of Friendship in Nigeria include social gatherings, outreach programs, and cultural events. These activities help to foster dialogue and understanding between individuals and communities, promoting social harmony and peaceful coexistence. The International Day of Friendship is observed annually on July 30th.

Facts about International Friendship Day

• In 1998, the UN Secretary's wife, Nane Annan, named Winnie the Pooh as the Ambassador of Friendship at the UN.
• It's been proved that we can catch happiness from our friends. A Harvard study suggested that if a person becomes happy, a friend living close by has a 25% higher chance of becoming happy too.
• Studies show that the quality of friendships during adolescence could predict mental health in adulthood.
• Generosity is highly valued in Nigerian friendships. People often show their love and appreciation for friends by giving gifts, offering financial assistance, or simply sharing food and resources.
• In some Nigerian communities, friendships are organized into age-grade systems, where people become friends with others in their age group.

In the News and Trending in Nigeria for International Friendship Day

Top things to do in Nigeria for International Friendship Day

• Let every one of your friends know how much you appreciate them - with a card, a letter, a phone call, an email, a text, etc.
• Perform random acts of kindness for strangers and make some new friends.
• Nigeria has an extensive coastline, allowing friends to relax at popular beaches like Tarkwa Bay beach in Lagos, Eleko beach in Lekki, Elegushi beach in Lekki, and Ibeno Beach in Akwa Ibom state.
• Friends can visit local markets such as Tejuosho Market in Lagos or Wuse Market in Abuja to experience the hustle and bustle of Nigerian commerce and buy traditional crafts, textiles, and street food.