Olusegun Runsewe has urged Nigerians in the Diaspora to respect the laws and cultural values of their host countries. Runsewe is President of the World Crafts Council, Africa Region. He spoke in Abuja on Saturday. His appeal followed Dutch authorities’ reported dispersal of Nigerians over an alleged breach of local regulations. The incident involved an open-air street party. Runsewe described it as regrettable and avoidable. He said it embarrassed Nigeria internationally.
Nigerians abroad have faced incidents of cultural friction. In 2023, a Nigerian community in the UK was criticised for a loud street party. In 2024, similar incidents occurred in Canada. Runsewe, a former Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, said communal celebrations are rooted in Nigerian culture. But he said public conduct differs between Nigeria and Western countries. He urged cultural orientation programmes. He said Nigerians must understand host country norms.
Runsewe said every society has conventions and laws. “As guests in another man’s land, we must respect those norms,” he said. He explained that Western nations value privacy and orderliness. Loud, open-air gatherings without approval infringe on those values. He urged Diaspora associations to strengthen cultural orientation. He appealed to the Dutch government to show understanding. He said the actions of a few should not stigmatise all Nigerians.
Winners: Runsewe, who shows leadership. Nigerian Diaspora, which gains guidance. The Dutch authorities, who receive an appeal for understanding. Losers: The Nigerians involved in the incident, who face legal consequences. Nigeria’s image, which suffers. Nigerians abroad, who face increased scrutiny. No serious losers if the advice is heeded.
Bottom Line: A street party abroad caused a diplomatic embarrassment. Runsewe advised respect for host laws. Nigerians must learn local norms. Cultural pride is good. Cultural misapplication is costly.