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NADECO-USA Condemns Sale Of Fighter Aircraft To Nigeria, Cites Buhari Regime’s Poor Human Rights Record

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Nigerian Air Force on Thursday, July 22 took delivery of the first batch of six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft from the US.

The National Democratic Coalition in the United States of America (NADECO – USA) has condemned the delivery of six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft to Nigeria from the US.

The group, in statement on Tuesday, July 29, cited alleged gross human rights abuses as part of the reasons why the US should not have delivered the aircraft to the West African country.

Nigerian Air Force on Thursday, July 22 took delivery of the first batch of six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft from the US.

Edward Gabkwet, Director of public relations and information, air force headquarters, announced the development in a statement in Abuja.

Gabkwet had on July 15 said the aircraft had departed the US and would move through five countries before arrival in Nigeria.

“The first batch of 6 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft have departed the United States of America on Wednesday, 14 July 2021 en route Nigeria,” he had said.

The statement by NADECO-USA through its Executive Director, Dr. Lloyd Ukwu, said, “The National Democratic Coalition (NADECO – USA) condemns the delivery of six (6) A-29 Super Tucano helicopters to Nigeria despite the country’s well documented, gross human rights abuses. Sources in the US confirmed that the helicopters left the US on July 14, 2021. The helicopters will be formally inducted into the Nigerian Air Force at a ceremony to be held in August.

“The six helicopters are the first batch of 12 Tucanos approved by the US Congress in 2017 to be sold to Nigeria at $593 million. The agreement includes weapons, training, spares, support, and construction. The approval resulted from the exemption granted to Nigeria by the {Donald) Trump administration from the US Foreign Assistance Act (FAA). The act establishes the Foreign Military Sale (FMS) under which the helicopters were procured and expressly prohibited the sale of military equipment to foreign governments with an existing credible record of ‘gross violation of internationally recognised human rights’.

“Accordingly, the US Department of Defence placed the contract for the twelve helicopters with Sierra Nevada Corporation and Embraer Defense & Security Corporation on behalf of Nigeria in November 2018.

“NADECO-USA cautions the US to review the exemption that allowed Nigeria to procure the helicopters. Previous US administrations disapproved of military assistance and sale of military equipment to Nigeria because of the country’s appalling human rights violations.

“The group wants the US Congress to recall that in January 2017, just before the exemption, the Nigerian military admitted to the ‘mistaken’ killing of hundreds of civilian refugees at Rahn, Borno State Nigeria, who were fleeing Boko Haram.

“The US Congress should also note that continuous and consistent human rights violations are well documented by Human Rights Watch and the US Department of State Country Report on Human Rights.

“Lloyd Ukwu, NADECO-USA executive director, points out the recent End-SARS protests reported shooting and killings by state security agents, abduction of Nnamdi Kanu a freedom activist from an African country, the bloody raid on Sunday Adeyemo ‘Igboho’ residence and many more also by state agents, as examples of egregiously human rights violations in the country stated that ‘there is evidence that the violation of human rights is emboldened by General Muhammadu Buhari’s reprehensible historical record of using brutal military force indiscriminately against those classified as ‘enemies of the state’ for exercising their constitutionally guaranteed right.’

“The US should be cautious of not becoming an instrument in the hands of the Federal Government of Nigeria in the killing and subjugation of innocent Nigerians.”

Culled from the Sahara Reporters

Houston

Houston Gets a Taste of West Africa at Chef Kavachi’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Show, August 8

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When it comes to international culinary gems and cultures across the United States, the city of Houston is counted among one of the best places to experience an authentic taste of every corner of the world.

 On the evening of Friday, August 8th, Houstonians will have a chance to engage all of their senses into the world of real West African flavors at Grubido’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art Show, a free culinary and art experience taking place at Flatland Gallery (1709 Westheimer Rd.) in Montrose.

  Curated by Grubido founder and Culinary Cultural Curator Kavachi Ukegbu, the annual celebration of west African cuisine and artistry will once again open its doors to patrons to witness the delights of creating and eating Fufu (a starchy, dough-like food that is a staple in many West and Central African countries), and its delicious and diverse pairings of soups and stews that originate from various parts of the continent, and uniquely compliment the beloved food staple as a complete meal. The event will also celebrate the observance of National Fufu Day  in the United States on August 11th.

  From the process of how different types of fufu are grown and manufactured, to the careful guidance on properly preparing the fufu to be eaten, the ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art showcase will give patrons a full circle perspective and appreciation for the food staple that has gained global popularity on social media and in many countries around the world.

  Attendees will be treated to fufu and soup samples, live Afrobeats music, an impressive display of fufu inspired artwork and collectables from over the years, and the opportunity to purchase Grubido food products, t-shirts, and the official The Art of Fufu cookbook. Originally published and released by Chef Kavach in 2021, “The Art of Fufu is a fascinating and informative guide to fufu, one of the most delicious and beloved staple foods of West Africans.” All cookbook purchases at the event will be signed by Chef Kavachi.

Entry for this event is free to all guests, but RSVP is strictly required in advance. To RSVP for the upcoming Art of Fufu Food & Art show, please visit the official website online at www.TheArtofFufu.com, or contact Grubido at (832) 818-6847.

The Art of Fufu Cookbook is a culinary treasure that explores the flavors, techniques, and cultural significance of fufu. It is a testament to the artistry of West African cuisine and serves as a guide for those seeking to immerse themselves in this beloved dish.

For more information, please visit www.theartoffufu.com & www.artoffufu.com

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Video: Omambala Cultural Association in Houston Celebrates Motherhood with Joyous Igbo-Inspired Mother’s Day Event

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Omambala Association in Houston Celebrates Motherhood with Joyous Mother’s Day Event

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HOUSTON, TEXAS – May 5, 2025 — The Omambala Cultural Association in Houston hosted a vibrant and heartfelt Mother’s Day celebration on Sunday evening at the Igbo Catholic Community Hall on Creekbend. The event brought together families and community members to honor the enduring strength, love, and sacrifices of mothers within the Igbo community.

Led by the association’s president, Ichelle Awkuzu, the Isaaka of Igboland, the gathering featured prayers, cultural music, dance, and speeches dedicated to celebrating motherhood. Awkuzu described the event as a moment of reflection and appreciation for mothers, emphasizing their central role in shaping families and preserving cultural values.

The association’s president, Ichelle Awkuzu, the Isaaka of Igboland, addressing the group.

 

Celebrants celebrate at the Omambala Cultural Association’s Mother’s Day celebration on Sunday evening at the Igbo Catholic Community Hall in Houston.

 

Celebrants

“Mothers are the heartbeat of our homes and the foundation of our culture,” Awkuzu said, urging attendees to honor and support mothers every day, not just on special occasions.

The celebration included lively performances of traditional Igbo music and dance, homemade meals prepared by members, and the presentation of thoughtful gifts to each mother in attendance. Vice President Chief Ugochukwu Chukwuka, known as Omemma Igbo, also delivered remarks, recognizing the vital role of mothers in nurturing future generations.

Photo from left_ Vice President of the group, Chief Ugochukwu Chukwuka – Omemma Igbo, and the President, Ichelle Awkuzu, the Isaaka of Igboland.

The evening was filled with laughter, music, and shared memories, reinforcing the communal spirit that defines the Omambala Cultural Association. Elders and youth alike participated in storytelling sessions and interactive cultural activities, creating a multigenerational experience that underscored the importance of preserving Igbo heritage. Several attendees expressed appreciation for the sense of belonging and cultural pride the event fostered.

The Omambala Cultural Association Inc. is a community-based organization representing people from the Old Anambra Local Government Area in Anambra State, Nigeria. It remains committed to promoting cultural education, unity, and socio-economic development for Igbo people in the diaspora and beyond.

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