BANGABANDHU: Bangladesh High Commission In Nigeria Observes National Mourning Day With Due Solemnity
Oru Leonard
Bangladesh High Commission in Abuja, Nigeria observed the National Mourning Day with due respect & solemnity on 15 August 2020, marking 45th martyrdom of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Solemn observance started with the hoisting of the national flag at half-mast at the Chancery at 9.30 am by Mr. Md. Shameem Ahsan,ndc, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Nigeria with the presence of the High Commission’s Officers and Officials.
On the same day, recitation from the Holy Quran (Quran Khawani) was held from 3-6 pm at the Chancery for the salvation of the departed souls of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman & other martyrs of the family. In the evening, a discussion-cum-special prayer was held at the Auditorium. At the outset, the High Commissioner, accompanied by Officers/Officials of the Mission & members of the community, placed floral wreath on the portrait of the Father of the Nation. One minute silence was observed as a mark of respect for the Father of the Nation and other martyrs of 15 August, 1975.
A documentary on the glorious life of the Father of the Nation was screened. This followed reading out of the messages of the President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and State Minister for Foreign Affairs on this occasion. In the discussion meeting, the speakers touched on the glorious life and achievements of the Father of the Nation.
They urged all to work together to build a prosperous Bangladesh under the dynamic leadership of the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to realise the dream of Bangabandhu for a Sonar Bangla (Golden Bengal).
In his remarks, the High Commissioner paid glowing tribute to Bangabandhu and highlighted on his active involvement throughout his life for just causes of Bangalees. He narrated as to how his unique magnanimity, unflinching love for people and political sagacity & charismatic leadership helped win the heart of the common people as “Bangabandhu”.
Mr. Ahsan also touched on the projected activities of the High Commission to observe year-long Mujib Year in connection with the birth centenary of Bangabandhu. In this regard, he urged the expatriate Bangladesh nationals to work unitedly for the implementation of Vision 2021, Vision 2041 and Delta 2100 under the leadership of the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Moderated by Mr. Mohammad Shah Ekramul Hoque, Third Secretary, other discussants included Mr. Mohammad Shah Ekramul Hoque, Ms. Rushnan Murtaza, Deputy Representative of UNICEF, Nigeria & Mr. Md. Akbar Hossain, a community leader.
Members of Bangladesh community, Nigerian guests and officials from High Commission, among others, were present. A special prayer was offered for the salvation of the departed souls of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, other martyrs of the family and for the prosperity of the country. Later, the guests were served with refreshments. Due to surge of COVID-19, the programme was observed in an in-house setting while observing health advisory.
