**Nigeria Makes History at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics** Get ready for a feel-good story from Italy. A Nigerian poet has made history by becoming the first Nigerian to carry the Olympic flag at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Maryam Bukar Hassan, also known as Alhanislam, took centre stage at the iconic San Siro Stadium in Milan, where the world gathered for the opening ceremony. **A Symbol of Peace and Unity** Maryam was handpicked by the International Olympic Committee to represent the ideals of peace, unity, and shared humanity. She joined a star-studded group of international figures, including Eliud Kipchoge, the legendary marathon champion, and Rebeca Andrade, a renowned Olympic gold medallist. As she walked into the stadium, Maryam was a symbol of Nigeria's cultural presence on the global stage. **A Moment of Pride for Nigeria** Maryam's selection as a "Flag Bearer of Peace" is a testament to her dedication to promoting peace and social justice through her spoken word performances. As a United Nations Global Advocate for Peace, she has been recognised for her advocacy efforts in peace-building and security initiatives. Her historic moment at the Winter Games is a milestone for Nigerian creatives and a reminder that youth voices can make a difference through art and storytelling. **A Daily Practice of Peace** When asked about the significance of carrying the Olympic flag, Maryam had a powerful message: "Peace is not an event, but it is practice. It is a daily decision for us to humanise before politicising." Her words are a reminder that peace is a choice we make every day, and that it requires effort and dedication. **A New Era for Nigerian Art and Activism** Maryam's appearance at the Winter Games is a reminder that the arts can be a powerful tool for promoting peace and social change. As a Nigerian poet, she has inspired a new generation of creatives to use their voices to advocate for positive change. Her historic moment at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is a milestone for Nigeria and a testament to the power of art and activism.