Mayor Yemi Mobolade welcomes 29 new Americans at naturalization ceremony in Colorado Springs

Mayor Yemi Mobolade, the only current immigrant mayor in the top 40 largest U.S. cities, officially welcomed 29 new Americans from 14 countries today during a naturalization ceremony at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum in Colorado Springs. Mobolade, a naturalized citizen from Nigeria who is politically independent, delivered remarks that underscored the enduring promise of the American Dream and the essential role immigrants continue to play in shaping the nation's future.

The ceremony marked a milestone not only for the new citizens and their families, but also for the city they now call home. Mayor Mobolade reflected on the shared journey of immigrants who choose the United States as their home and commit to its democratic ideals.

"Today is one of the most sacred and hopeful days in the life of our nation," Mobolade said. "Today, you become citizens of the United States of America. And on behalf of the City of Colorado Springs, it is my profound honor to welcome you home."

The new Americans come from 14 different nations - Australia, Belgium, Canada, China, Colombia, Germany, Guyana, India, Ireland, South Korea, Mexico, Panama, the Philippines, and Vietnam. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Mobolade urged the new citizens to see themselves as stewards of the nation's future, with both rights and responsibilities.

"Your languages, your cultures, your stories, your resilience - they do not dilute America," Mobolade said. "They strengthen it. And let me say this clearly: this country needs you. Becoming an American is not simply about paperwork. It is about belonging. It is about responsibility. It is about stepping into a shared story that is far bigger than any one of us."

The mayor shared his own experience immigrating from Lagos, Nigeria, and taking the oath of citizenship eight years ago in Colorado Springs, an experience he said continues to shape his leadership and service.

"I arrived carrying more than a suitcase," Mobolade said. "I carried sacrifice. I carried a dream. I carried the prayers of loved ones who stayed behind. And I carried a belief that in America, through hard work, faith, perseverance, and God's grace, anything is possible."

Today, Mobolade serves as mayor of the nation's 39th largest city, a role he pointed to as evidence of what remains possible in the United States.

"Friends, the American Dream is not lost," he said. "It is renewed every single time someone like you raises their hand and says, 'I choose this country.'"

The ceremony concluded with a call to civic participation, service, and leadership, as the mayor encouraged the new Americans to vote, volunteer, build businesses, raise families, and lead with integrity in their communities.

"America's story is now your story," Mobolade said. "And your story will help shape America's future. From one immigrant to another - welcome home."

Mobolade's full remarks can be found here,and a video of a portion of his remarks can be found here.