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 Why I Rejected NIMASA Salary Increment Request ― Amaechi

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4 years ago

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Says Minister of Finance frustrating $200m CVFF disbursement

The Honourable Minister of Transportation, Rt Hon Rotimi Amaechi has shed more light on why he rejected a request by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to review the agency’s salary. This is even as he revealed that the over $200m Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) has not been disbursed despite a Presidential approval because the Minister of Finance says it’s a public fund and shouldn’t be disbursed.

Speaking over the weekend during a Ministerial Retreat organized by the Federal Ministry of Transportation in Lagos, Amaechi urged the indigenous shipowners to write a protest letter over the refusal of the Minister of Finance to disburse the CVFF fund, so that he can again approach Mr President over the matter.

According to the Honourable Minister of Transportation, “Why we are gathered here basically is because we want to see if we can take the maritime industry to where we have taken the rail sector to.

“The funds that you need to expend in the maritime industry to make it efficient is not as huge as what you need for the railway, so the problem of maritime is more of persons; that makes the person’s there to be more efficient.

“We said we will turn NIMASA from a contract awarding agency to the proper regulatory agency that they are. Before today, if 10 persons approach me in the ministry for posting, eight will say ‘I want to go to NIMASA’. So when they (NIMASA) said we should increase their salary, we said “no” because, over time, NIMASA became a cash cow. Everybody wanted to be posted there both for contract employment or political appointment. So, I said no to their salary increment request. if NIMASA maintains its regulatory status, people will stop struggling to come there from the ministry, and we have achieved that.

“In the area of maritime security, I said we will address the issue of insecurity in the maritime sector because the reasons why vessels are not able to go to Port Harcourt, Warri and other eastern ports is because of insecurity which is fuelling high cost of insurance premium.

“So, if we address the issue of insecurity, then the high cost of insurance will reduce from the huge premium and more businesses will go to the South-South where we have other seaports.

“You (media) were there when we launched the equipment for the maritime security architecture. We are now monitoring to see how much improvement has occured since the launch. Very soon, the huge insurance premium on Nigerian bound cargoes is going to reduce because there is the presence of security equipment on our waters.

“On the CVFF, Mr President made approval, saying go ahead and disburse, and the Attorney General also said we should go ahead because the law says it’s a private fund. But then, the Minister of Finance protested that it is a public fund, and cannot be spent. So what will I do? Due to this situation, we are handicapped.

“The owners of the fund (shipowners) should write to the President and copy me, then I will go back to the President because the law says it is not a public fund. Now, the owners of the fund are aware that there is a Presidential approval. They are also now aware of the protest by the Minister of Finance. So, they should write to Mr President and copy me. if I have all this, I will go back to the President on the matter.”

Culled from the Tribune News Nigeria

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Houston

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

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2 months ago

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July 30, 2025

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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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4 months ago

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May 11, 2025

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

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4 months ago

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May 11, 2025

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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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