Lagos, Nigeria – The 6th Annual Aido Network International Convention unfolded in grand style in Lagos this week, drawing leaders, royalty, government officials, business figures, and members of the African diaspora from across the globe. Focused on unity, cultural reclamation, and economic empowerment across Africa and its diaspora, the convention embodied the dynamic spirit of Pan-Africanism.

In his opening address, Aido President, His Highness Papa Paul Eganda, set an inspirational tone for the gathering. “Today, as we gather here in Lagos—the heartbeat of Nigeria and a cradle of African spirit and resilience—we are standing on historic ground,” he declared. Eganda emphasized Aido’s mission to reclaim Africa’s cultural legacy and called on attendees to deepen connections, bridge the past with the future, and build a unified Africa rooted in empowerment and unity.

The event began with a warm welcome from HRH Prince Bimbo Roberts, Chairman of the Aido Nigeria Chapter, who shared words of pride and vision with attendees: “We are now a global Africa, and Africa welcomes her diaspora home.” His message resonated with the audience, reminding all present of the shared heritage and future that bind Africa and its diaspora.

Attendees included dozens of Nigerian royal fathers and mothers, as well as kings and queens from across the globe, all gathered to demonstrate support for the Pan-African mission of Aido. In a gesture of support from the Nigerian government, the Deputy Governor of Lagos officially declared the convention open, highlighting the importance of unity in achieving shared prosperity.

Hundreds of businesspeople, exhibitors, and Aido members traveled from as far as Guyana, Barbados, Jamaica, South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This diverse representation underscores the growing global reach of Aido’s vision, bringing together the African diaspora and African nations to collaborate on cultural restoration, economic empowerment, and social justice.

The convention’s agenda emphasized reparatory justice and the restoration of African cultural heritage. “Our cultural heritage is the lifeblood of our identity,” Eganda asserted. Aido’s dedication to heritage goes beyond preservation—it demands that artifacts and stories be returned to their rightful homes, respected, and cherished. This commitment aligns with Aido’s longstanding advocacy for the restitution of African artifacts taken during the colonial period.

The theme of unity extended into discussions on economic empowerment and prosperity, with Eganda highlighting the necessity of creating robust economic networks across borders to drive innovation and allow African businesses to thrive globally. “Our vision of a united Africa is also a vision of a prosperous Africa,” he remarked, emphasizing Aido’s role in fostering an environment where African ideas and products can shape industries worldwide.

Aido’s 6th Annual Convention serves as a milestone in the organization’s mission to build a globally united African community. The gathering in Lagos is a powerful reminder of the vision that binds this network—a united, empowered Africa poised to make a global impact.

For more information, visit Aido Network International at https://aidonetwork.org or Email: Contact info@aidonetwork.org.