The Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) joined the Netherlands in Nigeria, one of its partners, at the 2026 King’s Day celebration in honour of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The event, held on Friday, 24 April in Lagos, is part of an annual tradition marking the monarch’s official birthday, observed this year on Monday, 27 April—and served as a platform to reinforce the longstanding diplomatic and development ties between Nigeria and the Netherlands. This engagement builds on WSCIJ’s participation in the 2025 edition of the celebration, reflecting the Centre’s sustained collaboration with the Netherlands on shared development priorities.
The King’s Day, a symbol of national pride in the Netherlands, reflects values of unity, freedom, openness and cooperation. Beyond its cultural significance, the celebration also provides an opportunity to reflect shared values and enduring international partnerships.
Hosted by the Consulate-General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Nigeria, the event brought together key stakeholders from government, the diplomatic corps, civil society and the private sector. WSCIJ’s participation underscores its continued engagement with partners supporting governance, accountability, and development initiatives.
Speaking at the event, Michel Deelen, Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lagos, described the relationship between Nigeria and the Netherlands as “strong and growing,” highlighting cooperation across sectors such as trade, agriculture, water management, energy and innovation.
He noted that Lagos plays a central role in this partnership as one of Africa’s leading economic hubs, adding that the Netherlands remains committed to supporting entrepreneurship, sustainable development and people-to-people connections.
Deelen also announced that the 2026 celebration would be his last King’s Day in Nigeria as Consul General, as he is set to assume a new diplomatic role as Dutch Ambassador to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, after the summer.
“In a world facing global challenges, from climate change to economic uncertainty, international cooperation is more important than ever. The Netherlands remains committed to working closely with Nigeria to promote stability, prosperity and inclusive growth,” he said.
Also speaking, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the Lagos State Government, emphasised the longstanding and mutually beneficial relationship between Nigeria and the Netherlands.
She highlighted key areas of collaboration including agriculture, maritime development, renewable energy, climate resilience and sustainable urban planning, noting that Lagos, as a coastal megacity, shares strategic priorities with the Netherlands, particularly in water management and environmental sustainability.
Salu-Hundeyin further called for deeper collaboration and increased investment from Dutch businesses, stressing that beyond economic ties, both countries are united by shared values and a collective vision for inclusive growth and innovation.
WSCIJ, in its tradition of appreciating partners and cherishing their contributions to its mandate, Moturayo Alaka, Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer, presented a souvenir to Michel Deelen, in recognition of his longstanding partnership and support for the Centre’s work.
WSCIJ’s presence at the event reinforces its commitment to fostering partnerships that advance transparency, accountability and sustainable development through investigative journalism and stakeholder engagement.
