Olusegun Runsewe, president of the World Crafts Council (WCC), Africa Region, has urged Nigerians in the diaspora to respect their host countries’ laws and cultural values.
Mr Runsewe made the appeal in Abuja on Saturday following the reported dispersal of Nigerians by Dutch authorities over an alleged breach of local regulations during an open-air street party.
He described the incident as regrettable and avoidable, saying it violated Dutch laws and cultural norms and embarrassed Nigeria internationally.
“Every society has conventions, norms and laws that guide social behaviour. As guests in another man’s land, we must respect those norms,” he said.
Mr Runsewe, a former director-general of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), described the incident as cultural misapplication.
He explained that communal celebrations were deeply rooted in Nigerian societies, particularly in the South-West, where people gathered to celebrate achievements and significant milestones.
However, he said social expectations and public conduct differed considerably between Nigeria and Western countries.
“Unlike in Nigeria, most Western nations embrace an individualistic way of life. They value privacy, orderliness and the serenity of their environment.
“Loud, open-air social gatherings on the streets without approval infringe on those values,” he said.
Mr Runsewe advised Nigerians abroad to understand their host countries’ cultural values and legal frameworks to preserve their dignity, earn respect and promote peaceful coexistence.
“The Netherlands incident was a hangover of Nigerian culture in a foreign land, which must not be repeated by Nigerians anywhere in the world,” he warned.
He said Nigerians were generally known for their hard work, respectfulness, peaceful disposition and law-abiding conduct.
Mr Runsewe added that the actions of a few overzealous citizens celebrating without considering local regulations should not be used to judge or stigmatise the entire country.
He appealed to the Dutch government and people, particularly residents of the affected area, to show understanding and magnanimity over the incident.
He also urged Nigerian diaspora associations, cultural groups and community organisations across Europe, America and other regions to strengthen cultural orientation and sensitisation programmes.
According to him, such initiatives should educate Nigerians abroad on civic responsibility, cultural tolerance and compliance with local laws.
“When we travel, we are ambassadors of Nigeria. We must export the best of our culture, which is respect, warmth and hospitality, and also respect the culture of others.
“That is the foundation for global understanding, peaceful coexistence and international diplomacy,” Mr Runsewe said.
(NAN)