In a dazzling display of Igbo cultural richness and maritime celebration, the Association of Igbo Maritime Practitioners in Nigeria (ASIMPIN) marked the end of the year with an exhilarating Iri Ji Festival at the Arthur Mbanefo Hall, Festival Hotel (Durbar), Festac Town, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos. Esteemed Igbo personalities and guests from diverse backgrounds gathered on Sunday, 3rd December 2023, for this significant event.
His Royal Majesty, Eze Amb. Demian Emeka Obianigwe, Ksm, Eze Oha 1 of Isi Ihitte Owerri, Orlu, Imo State, graced the occasion as the President General of ASIMPIN and the Royal Father of the Day.
The event was further embellished by the presence of Dr. Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam, Founder of National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders and New Nigerian People’s Party, who took on the role of Father of The Day.
Notably, Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni, the Customs Area Controller, Tin-Can Island Port Command, adorned the event as the Special Guest of Honour.
The festivities encapsulated the essence of Igbo traditions, as guests indulged in the delight of roasted yam with palm oil sauce, Ugba, Ukwa, and other delicacies, complemented by the relish of natural palm wine. His Royal Majesty, Eze Demian Emeka Obianigwe, Ksm., impeccably executed customary rituals, embodying his role as a custodian of Igbo culture and tradition.
The highlight of the event was Comptroller Dera Nnadi’s captivating paper presentation on the “Igbo Apprenticeship Scheme,” also known as “Igba Boy.” With remarkable erudition, Nnadi delved into the intricate nuances of the Igbo capital incubation model, elucidating its pivotal role in fostering resilience, determination, and humility—crucial attributes that have facilitated the emergence of numerous Igbo millionaires across diverse fields.
Dr. Aniebonam echoed a call for unity among Igbo maritime practitioners, advocating the ASIMPIN slogan, “Onye aghala Nwanne ya,” emphasizing collective support and participation within the Apex Igbo Maritime association.
Amidst the festivities, the MD/CEO of Clarion Bonded Terminal presented a gesture of appreciation to Compt. Dera Nnadi, mni, alongside contributions made by dignitaries to support the association’s endeavors.
Prince Ozo Chukwurah, the Chief Host and Vice President of ASIMPIN, expressed gratitude to attendees for their presence and emphasized the importance of unity and wisdom among Igbo maritime practitioners.
The ASIMPIN Iri Ji Festival and End of Year Celebration not only commemorated Igbo cultural heritage but also underscored the pivotal role of collaboration and wisdom in fostering maritime excellence among Ndigbo.
