That day started just like any other. I had classes. But honestly, I couldn’t focus. My mind kept drifting to the Cultural Day event later that day. I kept looking at the time, hoping time would hurry up. My heart was pounding with excitement like a drumbeat I couldn’t ignore. When class finally ended, I quickly packed my things and rushed out with my friends to the convocation ground. The moment I stepped outside everything felt different. The air smelled fresh and lively like warm sunshine mixed with the scent of blooming flowers and freshly cut grass. It was the kind of smell that made you smile without even trying. The convocation ground was far from my faculty so we had to use a tricycle to get there.

The convocation ground was buzzing with energy. There were about eight different tribes represented that day by each department from my faculty.Edo, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Idoma, Gbayi, Efik, and Tiv. Everywhere I looked there were bright colours. Students wore flowing agbadas, Ankara gowns with bold prints, sparkling beads, and gele tied perfectly like works of art. The chatter and laughter blended with the beat of drums and it was impossible not to tap my foot. The event started with the Yoruba group. They danced with such grace and energy their costumes of bubae and wrapper shining in gold and blue. The crowd clapped along and I found myself smiling wide. They truly did very well. Then came the Idoma group. Their steps were strong and proud and they performed so well too.

After them the Hausa group went on stage but their performance felt a bit shaky. The Edo group also struggled to keep the crowd’s energy up. When the Igbo group performed I was hoping for more but they gave it their best even if it didn’t fully capture everyone’s attention. The Tiv  group though pulled everyone back in with confident flexible moves and performance of combat by their boys.it was thrilling to watch .The Efik group closed their turn beautifully dancing with style and impressive skills.

Some other departments presented traditional foods. The Igbo group displayed Oha  and abacha, a colourful and crunchy salad that looked so inviting. The Yoruba group presented a variety of dishes that smelled heavenly while the Idoma group showcased yam and fresh fruits arranged beautifully on plates. All the food looked so good but I felt a little sad when I saw some people wrinkling their noses or making faces at foods from cultures different from theirs. It wasn’t right to disrespect someone’s traditions like that. Cultural Day was about celebrating all of us not judging or disrespecting each other. I hoped next time everyone would appreciate the diversity more.

Then it was my department’s turn to perform. We presented the Gbayi tribe. I wasn’t on stage myself but I was right there in the crowd cheering as loudly as I could. Honestly I didn’t expect much because it was hard to get the materials we needed. But my coursemates surprised me. They moved with confidence handled their props like pros and kept the audience engaged. I was so proud of them. They really tried their best and it showed.Between the performances there were drama sketches that made us laugh and reminded us of our cultural roots. I wandered around with my friends soaking in every sound and colour.

As the sun began to set painting the sky orange the field was littered with tired but happy faces. The last drumbeats faded and people started to leave slowly. Walking back home I felt warm inside. I could see the satisfied looks on my lecturers’ faces and that made me feel even happier. Cultural Day wasn’t just about dressing up or showing talent. It was about seeing the beauty in our differences and celebrating together. And for me it was also a day to be proud of my department.

It’s a day I’ll always remember.