In a significant moment for Nigeria's culinary landscape, Chef Amaka Nwakalor-Egemba has been appointed as the new President of the Culinary Arts Practitioners Association of Nigeria (CAPA). Her nomination follows the successful tenure of outgoing President, Chef Rukayat Momoh, who voluntarily stepped down after a presidency marked by notable reforms in culinary education and the establishment of a national culinary award system.

The leadership transition, which coincided with the 2024 celebration of International Chefs Day, marks an exciting new chapter for CAPA. As the founder of Dish L'Afrique, Chef Amaka brings an innovative vision to the role. She is known for her passion for promoting African cuisine and her commitment to advancing the culinary profession within Nigeria.

Reflecting on her time as CAPA President, Chef Momoh, who was affectionately known in the industry as Chef Giggles of Giggles Culinary Academy, expressed pride in the strides made under her leadership. Her term focused on unity, professionalism, and creativity within the Nigerian culinary scene. "A change of tenure can be a catalyst for growth, continuity, and progress," she stated during the handover. “New leadership brings fresh ideas, perspectives, and solutions to the challenges we face in the culinary industry.”

Chef Amaka, a Leading African Woman in Food under the 2024 cohort of the LAWFF Fellowship, is stepping into her new role with a clear vision for CAPA's future. "The culinary space in Nigeria deserves increased visibility and structure," she noted. “I am deeply honoured to accept the presidency and committed to driving initiatives that foster growth, build collaborations, and raise the profile of our culinary traditions locally and internationally.”

Her leadership will focus on recruiting new members, launching impactful initiatives, and creating opportunities for culinary professionals to thrive. Chef Amaka's appointment aligns with CAPA's mission to elevate Nigerian cuisine and enhance the industry's development, echoing the broader goals of the LAWFF program to empower African women in the food sector.

With the support of her fellow LAWFF awardees, Chef Amaka is set to bring a fresh wave of energy and innovation to CAPA, advancing the association's role as a key driver of culinary excellence in Nigeria and beyond.