Ancestry DNA testing at the Consulate of Nigeria in New York has uncovered Nigerian roots for no fewer than 11 Americans.
According to a statement from the Consulate’s information desk signed by Tiamiyu Arobani on Monday, these individuals have traced their ancestry to various Nigerian ethnic groups.
The Americans identified with Nigerian lineages include Maleeka Harris, Shatara Corbett, Abel Watson, Darryl Rattray, Antonia Coleman-Brown, Nicole Williams, Pablo Blanco, Estena Turner, William Conley, Keith Howard, and Gina Paige. Their ancestries were found to span Igbo, Hausa, Fulani, Yoruba, Yoruba-Fulani, Hausa-Fulani, and Fulani-Kanuri backgrounds through the DNA testing.
The Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, Amb Abubakar Jidda, highlighted the significance of this discovery in bridging cultural gaps and celebrating the enduring bonds between Nigeria and the global African community.
He emphasized Nigeria’s leadership role within Africa due to its diverse cultures and rich history.
Jidda welcomed the participants and encouraged them to explore educational and cultural opportunities offered by the Consulate to deepen their understanding of Nigerian and African cultures.
He envisioned the event as the start of a meaningful journey of discovery and connection.
Dr. Gina Paige, Co-founder and President of AfricanAncestry.com, who unveiled the DNA test results, expressed gratitude for hosting the ‘Ancestry Reveal’ event at the Nigerian Consulate.
She noted that the event was especially enriching for those whose roots led back to Nigeria.
Paige highlighted the mission of AfricanAncestry.com to empower Black individuals by using DNA to reveal their ancestral identities and transform their perceptions of themselves and Africa.
The event also received praise for its partnership with the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development, specifically through its “Rites of Passage” program aimed at city youth.
In summary, the event at the Nigerian Consulate underscored the importance of ancestral discovery in fostering a deeper connection with heritage and identity among African diaspora communities.
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