Banquet showcases Nigerian culture

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake community received a glimpse of Nigerian culture this weekend during the Moses Lake Medical Team's fundraising banquet.

The event featured Nigerian dance troupe Oduduwa of Oregon and Nigerian singer Babatunde Ogunseinde, and a fashion show highlighting various Nigerian clothing trends.

Medical Team member Francie Irwin said the night's goal was to give guests a chance to learn more about the Nigerian culture since the team makes yearly visits to Nigeria to provide free medical care.

They have made six trips to the country since forming in 2008. The group returned from a two-week mission to Benin City last November and is currently preparing for a late-April mission to Ibadan.

Irwin said the banquet is the group's main fundraiser. About 180 people attended this year, she said.

Funds raised during Saturday's event will help the team purchase medication and supplies for the trip.

Irwin said this was the second time Oduduwa of Oregon has been to Moses Lake. They performed during last year's banquet as well, she said.

"They like what the medical team is doing and have been very supportive by coming out here and performing for us," Irwin commented.

She said Oduduwa and Banatunde were good choices for entertainment. By the end of the night, guests were up and dancing with the group, said Irwin.

"The night is going well," she said. "And that's what we wanted, was for everyone to have fun."

For more information abut the Moses Lake Medical Team, visit www.mlmtusa.org.