AY Hosts Canadian Deputy High Commissioner for Exclusive Dinner at His Lagos Residence
Nigerian comedian and actor AY Makun recently hosted the Canadian Deputy High Commissioner, Carlos Rojas-Arbulú, and his wife, Melka Monette, for an exclusive dinner at his residence in Lagos. The private gathering, held on March 11, 2025, blended entertainment with diplomacy, underscoring the growing ties between Nigeria and Canada in cultural and economic relations.
AY, a leading figure in Nollywood and stand-up comedy, used the opportunity to foster cross-cultural engagement, highlighting the importance of informal diplomatic interactions. The dinner reflected Canada’s continued commitment to strengthening relations with Nigeria, a country with which it shares deep economic, trade, and migration links. The guest list was not publicly disclosed, but the event’s intimate nature suggested a mix of influential personalities from different sectors.
Canada maintains a robust diplomatic presence in Nigeria, with a high commission in Abuja and a deputy high commission in Lagos. The gathering at AY’s home further emphasized the dynamic relationship between both nations, particularly as the Nigerian diaspora plays a vital role in Canada’s economic and cultural landscape. Canada also has significant investments in Nigeria, spanning industries such as education, energy, and technology.
While neither AY nor the Canadian Deputy High Commission has issued an official statement about the purpose of the visit, the commissioner took to Instagram to express his gratitude. In his post, he praised AY’s hospitality and the enriching conversations shared, while also expressing excitement about deepening Nigeria-Canada collaborations. He also humorously noted his enjoyment of Nigerian pepper soup and extended an invitation for AY to experience Canadian cuisine.
The post quickly attracted attention online, with many Nigerians applauding AY for his contributions to globalizing Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Social media users praised the comedian for using his influence to engage with diplomatic figures, with some even speculating that the meeting could lead to more international opportunities for Nigerian talents.
As Canada and Nigeria continue to explore new avenues for partnership, informal engagements like this serve as crucial platforms for cultural exchange and economic collaboration. AY’s ability to merge entertainment with diplomacy further cements his reputation as a key figure in Nigeria’s creative industry and beyond.
