Members of the public joined councillors for the ceremony, which saw the bicolour triband of green, white and green raised atop of the council’s community flagpole.

Figures from the Office of National Statistics estimate there are around 20,000 residents in Barking and Dagenham who were born in Nigeria.

The flag-raising event also marked the unofficial beginning of Black History Month in the borough, which runs throughout October.

Councillor Sade Bright, Cabinet Member for Employment, Skills & Aspiration, said: “Our borough is one of the most diverse and exciting in London and we’re pleased so many people from around the world have decided to call Barking and Dagenham their home. 

“Like our borough, Nigeria has a rich and extensive history that has influenced the wider world and we’re delighted to be able to celebrate Nigerian Independence Day with all the members of our Nigerian community.”

For more details about flag-raising events or to donate a flag, visit lbbd.gov.uk/flag-flying.

For more information about Black History Month, visit lbbd.gov.uk/black-history-month