State Visit to Nigeria - October 29, 2018
The Governor General visited West Africa from October 23 to 30, 2018 where she undertook a State visit to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, from October 28 to 30.
The Governor General and the Canadian delegation visited the African University of Science and Technology in Abuja. Upon arrival, they were greeted by the university’s President, Professor Kingston Nyamapfene (right), and introduced to the AUST senior management (left).
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0283-009
They met with teams of graduate students at the master’s and doctoral levels and teachers who presented the findings of their cutting-edge research in the areas of sustainable materials and breast cancer. Canadian delegate Jean Lebel (left), President of International Development Research Canada, looked at their research with great interest.
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0283-015
Her Excellency then shared her own career path and the importance of science and innovation with the students.
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0283-022
Canadian delegate Jean Lebel also said a few words. The remarks were followed by a question period with the students.
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0283-029
The Governor General then headed to the Presidential Villa to meet with His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, President of Nigeria, to discuss bilateral relations between Canada and Nigeria.
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0284-024
Following their meeting, the Governor General and the President delivered a statement to the media.
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0284-031
The Governor General and the Canadian delegation proceeded to the National Space Research and Development Agency. They were greeted by Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, Minister of Science and Technology, and then took part in a discussion with representatives of the Agency on Nigeria’s efforts in the aerospace field.
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0285-007
Her Excellency gave a presentation on space to primary and secondary students.
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0285-019
Following the presentation, she visited technical laboratories.
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0285-028
She concluded her visit at the National Space Museum, where she donated a personal memento from space.
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0285-042
In the evening, the Governor General and the Canadian delegation met with young leaders of the Nigerian civil society. Her Excellency delivered remarks and met with them to learn more about their interests, ambitions and motivations.
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0286-001
Born and raised in Nigeria, Canadian delegate Dr. Chidi Oguamanam Professor, Faculty of Law (Common Law Section) at the University of Ottawa, shared his experiences and journey with youth.
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0286-002
Throughout the evening, Nigerian musicians performed.
Mon, 10/29/2018 - 12:00 Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall GG05-2018-0286-004