Picnews
Maryam Bukar Hassan, a Nigerian poet and UN Global Advocate for Peace, made history as the first Nigerian to carry the Olympic flag at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony. She was chosen for her outstanding work in promoting peace, gender equality, and youth empowerment.
Maryam, also known as Alhanislam, is a renowned spoken word artist who uses her poetry to address social issues and inspire change. Her selection as flagbearer reflects her global impact and Nigeria’s growing influence in cultural diplomacy.
She walked into the iconic San Siro stadium wearing a custom Giorgio Armani outfit, representing Nigeria with elegance and pride. Maryam’s achievement highlights the power of language, culture, and advocacy, showing that global impact extends beyond sporting achievements.
Maryam’s poetry often focuses on themes of identity, resilience, and social justice, resonating with audiences worldwide. As a UN Global Advocate for Peace, she champions education, empowerment, and conflict resolution through creative expression.
Her historic role at the Olympics underscores Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and potential for global leadership. Maryam’s participation is expected to inspire a new generation of Nigerian artists, activists, and athletes.
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics marks a milestone for Nigeria, with Maryam’s flag-bearing role symbolizing the country’s growing presence on the global stage. Her achievement has sparked widespread celebration and pride in Nigeria.
Maryam’s journey from spoken word artist to Olympic flagbearer showcases the power of perseverance and passion. Her story is likely to inspire many, especially young Nigerians, to pursue their dreams and make a global impact.
