The High Commission of Bangladesh in Abuja, Nigeria organised 4th National Development Fair on 4 October, 2018 at a local hotel (Frasers Suites) from 5.30 P.M.–8.30 P.M. It was attended by expatriate Bangladesh nationals and a large number of high officials from the Nigerian Government, senior defence Officials (who attended Course at the National Defence College, Dhaka), diplomats, members of the Nigerian and foreign media and business & Chamber leaders, among others.
H.E. Mr. Md. Shameem Ahsan,ndc along with his wife Mrs. Pandora Chowdhury greeted the guests. A Reception preceded the discussion part. A wide range of traditional Bangladeshi pitah (cake) were served and the foreign guests were appreciative of its taste.
During the discussion segment, High Commissioner Shameem Ahsan narrated the tremendous achievements made at home and abroad under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during her terms. At the outset, the High Commissioner paid glowing tribute to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and to the valiant freedom fighters whose sacrifices helped gain independence of Bangladesh. The audience was encouraged to learn the numerous success stories turning Bangladesh “A Development Model” for the developing countries. Mr. Ahsan urged the expatriate nationals to come forward to achieve Digital Bangladesh by 2021 and a Developed Country by 2041 as envisioned by the Prime Minister. Mr. OtunbaSegunRunsewe, FIMS, FABE, OON, Director General of the Nigerian National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Commodore MarkuseOdey (Retd.), who attended Course at the National Defence College (NDC), Dhaka and Dr. Anis Rahman Siddique, Chief, Communication for Development & Polio Team Lead, UNICEF Nigeria Country Office also spoke at the event.
The Fair venue was decorated with traditional Bangladeshi articles, souvenirs and posters which conveyed an ambience of Bangladesh. Various publications and periodicals of the Government including books on the War of Liberation, rich culture, tradition and tourisms potentials of the country, among others, were on display. One stall was put up to showcase exportables and handicrafts. A large number of photos were on display which covered epic struggle of the Bengalis under the leadership of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the development Journey of Bangladesh spearhead by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Two video documentaries were screened which helped the audience get a sense about the tremendous achievements made and prospects & potentials of Bangladesh. A multi-colour pocket-size booklet, published by the High Commission, summarising the achievements of the Government was distributed which was well-received.
The event was followed by a dinner with traditional cuisine.