Solemnity of Our Lady Queen of Nigeria

Today is the Solemnity  of Our Lady Queen and Patroness of Nigeria. This is a National Celebration to mark the Country's independence from British Colonial rule in 1960.  Soon after the Country's Independence in 1960, the Bishops of Nigeria dedicated the Country to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God as the Queen, Paronness and Mother of Nigeria. In honour of her Queen, the Cathedral at the Nation's Federal Capital is named  Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Pro-Cathedral, Abuja.
Today, is therefore, the Birthday of Nigeria and the feast of her Mother and Queen, the Blessed Virgin Mary. Since Independence, Our Lady has been protecting Nigeria from collapse despite series of coups, wars and several other crises, whether political, religious or ethnic. Our Lady has really established her Queenship of Nigeria in response to the Dedication, by Her Apparition at Aokpe in Central Nigeria where She declared that She is the Mediatrix of all Graces amidst signs and wonders. There are also reports of her apparition in Kaduna state asking for more prayers for Nigeria.
1st October is not only the Solemnity of Our Lady Queen of Nigeria, but also marks the Solemn beginning of October Devotions to the Blessed Virgin Mary in the whole Universal Church; the Month specially dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary by the Pope.
As we celebrate and thank God for the gift of Nigeria, let us also thank Our Mother and Queen for Her Special Maternal care for our Country.
Our Lady Queen of Nigeria, pray for us.