There was a special sense of pride in the room at this week’s Citizenship Ceremony as Ibrahim Eletu, Maryam Giwa and their children stood together to officially call Australia home.
Hosted by Bundaberg Regional Council, the event welcomed a large group of new citizens, each filled with emotion about the momentous occasion and with their own unique story.
Ibrahim, a general practitioner at Burnett Medical Centre, first began shaping his medical career in Nigeria where he graduated in 2011.
His work in emergency medicine later took him across Nigeria, the U.K. and Australia, building experience and the skillset he now brings to the Bundaberg community.
Ibrahim said even though his career had taken him to different parts of the world, Australia held a lasting pull.
“The values, the culture, the people, the love for this land was still in me when I was away and I just had to come back,” he said.
The family first lived in Brisbane but it wasn’t long before they felt drawn to a quieter, more connected lifestyle.
“We lived in Brisbane but settled in Bundaberg in 2020,” he said.
“I have worked at the Burnett Medical Centre for almost four years now.
“It has been a very lovely experience having to care for the people here and having to share life with society in Bundaberg.”
For Ibrahim, becoming an Australian citizen this week was a moment filled with genuine joy.
“It feels very exhilarating,” he said.
“I am very happy being part of a country we can finally call home.”
Ibrahim, Maryam and their children Abdulfattah and Aisha were part of the 54-strong group of new Australian citizens celebrated at the Bundaberg Multiplex on Wednesday.
Congratulations and welcome home.
Congrats Dr. Ibrahim and family.