Obasogie joins race for City Council York South-Weston Municipal election in Toronto

By Simeon Mpamugoh

Nekpen Obasogie is a Nigerian-Canadian recognised for her contributions and outstanding achievements that resonate within the Canadian society and beyond.

She is an author, a dedicated political advocate, a Master of Social Work (MSW/RSW), and a PhD candidate at the University of Toronto. She is currently running for a position on the Toronto City Council in the upcoming municipal election for York South-Weston (Ward 5), scheduled for October 26, 2026.

In an interview with the Sunday Sun, Obasogie shared her insights regarding her candidacy and her extensive involvement in media, advocacy, and cultural preservation.

What you have done in Toronto?

I have established several organisations, including the Canadian Council for Family Services in Toronto, the Edo Cultural Heritage Commission in North America, and NEBO TV, where I serve as CEO. Furthermore, I’m the founder of the exquisite Queen Idia House Art Gallery in Brampton, Canada. In 2022, I spearheaded the Edo Language Day Initiatives, demonstrating my commitment and effectiveness through this impactful project and others.

What is the central focus of your campaign?

My campaign is centred around the slogan: ‘Restoring Hope, Building a Brighter Future.” This initiative aims to bring fresh perspectives and generate meaningful change for the residents of York South-Weston.

I have submitted my nomination form to run for office and I’m committed to representing our community while effecting meaningful change that resonates with our residents. I aspire to be a steadfast advocate for the community in the Toronto City Council. My mission is to champion the needs and priorities of our residents, ensuring that their concerns are heard and addressed—particularly in areas such as infrastructure development, housing, affordability, and public safety.

You have authored several historical and literary works, which examine the arrival of Europeans in West Africa. Could you share some with us?

Sure!  Since 2021, I have  authored several historical and literary works that examine the arrival of Europeans in West Africa from the late 15th century onwards. Among these publications are “Great Benin: The Alcazar of Post-Colonial Culture and Its Relationship with Europeans Since 1400,” “Preservation of African Indigenous Language: The Diary of Edo Language Day Worldwide,” and “The Life of Princess Adesuwa (The Beauty of Princess Adesuwa That Instigated Two Tribal Wars in the Ancient Benin Kingdom).” Additionally, “2023 Edo Language Day Worldwide” and “The Benin Warriors and British Colonial Rule in Nigeria,” are part of my collections. All of these books are available on Amazon and various other online platforms.

In 2024,  you led your team on a pivotal visit to the United Nations in New York. What informed the visit?

Yes. In 2024, I led my team on a pivotal visit to the United Nations in New York. The visit was  part of my advocacy efforts. I also made significant historical visits to the Benin Bronzes at the Metropolitan Museum and the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC., United States. These visits aimed to bring attention to these cultural treasures, which were looted by British colonial forces from the Benin Kingdom in 1897. Through my leadership and advocacy work, combined with my academic research and publications, I have garnered global recognition and several prestigious awards over the years.

Thus far, I have received more than 30 awards and certificates of recognition. These honours include the prestigious Pen Award for my debut book publication, a nomination for the 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women, the Canada International Black Women Excellence Award, and recognition from the Toronto Police Service during Black History Month. Additionally, I have been honoured with the Urban Hero Award for Arts, the Black Diamond Awards in Toronto, and “The Nigerian Pride Award” from Nigerian Week in London, United Kingdom, as well as the Vigor International Award in Windsor, Ontario, among many others.

You are the founder of the Oueen Idia House Art Gallery in Brampton, Ontario. What informed the establishment of this cultural space?

I must state that this cultural establishment is not just worth millions, but it is genuinely priceless. The gallery was created with a mission to promote and preserve the Edo culture within the diaspora. I have deep-rooted passion for art collection, inspired by my Edo heritage, which fuelled the gallery’s inception. I have garnered enthusiastic support from community leaders, stakeholders, and art enthusiasts alike, with an impressive 80 per cent of the gallery’s artworks comprising authentic Benin cultural artefacts from the Benin Kingdom in Nigeria. By establishing this gallery, as an Edo indigene, I have seized the opportunity to showcase the rich artistry and cultural wealth of Benin. With the backing of various supporters, I’m determined to enhance the gallery’s infrastructure, transforming it into a world-class institution that attracts global audiences.

What are your thoughts about the forthcoming City Council York South-Weston Municipal election in Toronto?

With my impressive track record, I’m  confidently campaigning for the position of City Councillor in York South-Weston, Ward 5, in Toronto, determined to be a strong advocate for the residents at the Toronto City Council. My mission is to champion the community’s needs and priorities, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed, particularly in areas such as infrastructural development, housing, affordability, and public safety.