News - Women Times

#NeverGettingMarried: Fisayo Longe & Afolabi Mosuro Turned Their Traditional Wedding into a Masterclass in Personal Style Lagos, Nigeria

by Women Times on April 22, 2026

By Prosper Mene

In a celebration that blended bold creativity, cultural pride, and high fashion, British-Nigerian fashion entrepreneur Fisayo Longe, founder of Kai Collective, and creative director Afolabi (Folabi) Mosuro said “I do” in a vibrant traditional wedding that has taken social media by storm.

The couple, who playfully branded their union with the hashtag #NeverGettingMarried, proved that when two style-savvy creatives tie the knot, the result is nothing short of a fashion spectacle. Held in Lagos, their ceremony and reception served as a runway for innovative takes on Nigerian traditional attire, complete with custom pieces, striking colour palettes, and modern twists on classic elements.

Fisayo Longe, known for her visionary approach to fashion through Kai Collective, didn’t just wear the looks — she infused the entire event with her brand’s DNA. Guests stepped out in custom Kai Collective aso-ebi, turning the wedding into an immersive brand experience that included coordinated outfits, bold prints, and even elements reminiscent of a fashion show. One observer described it as “a full Kai Collective moment,” where loved ones didn’t just attend a wedding but stepped into the bride’s creative vision.

The couple’s own outfits stood out for their fearless fusion of tradition and contemporary edge. Highlights included:

Metallic gold corsets paired with dramatic silhouettes

Neon lime silks that brought electric energy to the celebration

Structural crimson brocade designs

Hand-painted skirts, aso-oke gele and fila (headwraps and caps), and luxe accessories from designers like Misho Designs, Mazelle Bridal, Couture by Tabik, JW Pei, Dolce & Gabbana, Christian Louboutin, and more

Afolabi complemented Fisayo’s looks with equally sharp styling — from tailored agbada to modern interpretations featuring Bally and Louis Vuitton shoes, with styling support from Denola Grey. The duo’s pre-wedding and introduction moments also featured multicoloured ensembles and rich Yoruba-inspired elements, including coral beads and handwoven textiles.

Creative direction came from Timonilonge, with wedding planning by Coker Creative and production elements handled by Folabi himself through Created by Clique. Photography and videography captured the magic, with credits going to talents like Chuchu Ojekwe, Moeez, and others.

What made the wedding truly memorable wasn’t just the opulence or the fashion — it was the authentic celebration of love, culture, and personal expression. The event honoured Nigerian traditions (including Yoruba and Edo influences) while pushing boundaries with avant-garde details like custom prints, textured fabrics, and joyful, unapologetic colour blocking.

Social media has been flooded with praise, with many calling it one of the most stylish Nigerian weddings in recent memory. Fashion enthusiasts and guests alike highlighted how the couple redefined “wedding style” by making it deeply personal, community-driven, and forward-thinking.

As one guest put it while rocking custom Kai Collective aso-ebi: “It was an absolute banger… celebrating love, creativity, and the community they’ve built.”

Fisayo and Afolabi’s #NeverGettingMarried celebration is a reminder that when style meets substance — and love gets the final say, the result is timeless.

Congratulations to the newlyweds! May their union continue to inspire bold, beautiful expressions of self and culture.

News Entertainment

Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and Sade Adu to Be Inducted Into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2026

by Women Times on April 14, 2026

By Prosper Mene

In a landmark announcement that has sent waves of pride across the African music world, Nigerian-born icons Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and Sade Adu (frontwoman of the band Sade) have been named to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame revealed the 2026 inductees on April 13 during a live segment of American Idol. Fela, the pioneering force behind Afrobeat, will be honored in the Early Influence category — recognized for artists whose groundbreaking sound laid the foundation for generations of music. He becomes the first African artist ever inducted into the Hall. Sade will enter in the Performer category alongside a star-studded list that includes Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan.

Fela Anikulapo-Kuti: The Rebel with a Horn

Born Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti in Abeokuta, Nigeria, in 1938, Fela transformed the music landscape with his explosive fusion of jazz, highlife, funk, and traditional Yoruba rhythms. His band Africa ’70 (later Egypt ’80) delivered marathon live performances laced with sharp political satire, targeting corruption, colonialism, and military dictatorships in Nigeria. Classics like “Zombie,” “Water No Get Enemy,” and “Lady” became anthems of resistance across Africa and the diaspora.

Fela’s influence stretches far beyond Nigeria. His work inspired artists from Paul Simon and Talking Heads to Jay-Z and Beyoncé. Despite multiple arrests, brutal raids on his Kalakuta Republic commune, and even the death of his mother at the hands of soldiers, Fela remained unbowed until his passing in 1997. The Early Influence Award is a fitting tribute to a man whose music predated and shaped what the world now calls “world music” and global Afrobeat.

Sade Adu: The Voice of Smooth Sophistication

Helen Folasade Adu, born in Ibadan, Nigeria, in 1959 and raised in London, brought a sleek, jazz-infused soul sound to global charts in the 1980s. As lead singer of the band Sade, she delivered timeless hits such as “Smooth Operator,” “The Sweetest Taboo,” “No Ordinary Love,” and “By Your Side.” With over 50 million records sold worldwide, the group’s minimalist elegance and Sade’s velvety voice created a genre-defying blueprint that influenced everyone from Maxwell and D’Angelo to modern R&B and neo-soul artists

Sade’s induction in the Performer category underscores her enduring commercial and artistic impact. She joins a select group of international artists who have redefined “rock” in its broadest sense.

Full Class of 2026 and Ceremony Details

Other notable inductees across categories include Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons (Early Influence), alongside producers and influencers such as Rick Rubin and Arif Mardin. The induction ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, November 14, 2026, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. It will be broadcast later on ABC and Disney+.

Nigerian fans and music industry figures have hailed the double induction as long overdue recognition of African creativity on the global stage. Fela’s inclusion, in particular, is being celebrated as a victory for Afrobeat’s global legacy and a powerful symbol of cultural pride.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, based in Cleveland, Ohio, continues to expand its definition of “rock ’n’ roll” to embrace the diverse roots of popular music — from Afrobeat pioneers to smooth soul icons.

For Nigeria and the wider African continent, this is more than an award — it is validation that the music born on these shores has shaped the soundtrack of the world.

News Empowerment

Juliet Ehimuan Launches RISE: Empowering Women Executives to Claim Enterprise Leadership

by Women Times on April 10, 2026

By Prosper Mene

the Civic Centre in Victoria Island transformed into a powerhouse of purpose and precision as Dr. Juliet Ehimuan, Founder and CEO of Beyond Limits and former Director of Google West Africa, officially launched the inaugural cohort of the RISE Executive Leadership Programme for Women.

More than 100 senior female executives and entrepreneurs gathered for the opening workshop of this six-week intensive programme, designed to propel accomplished women leaders from functional excellence into enterprise-wide stewardship. RISE — Reflect. Ignite. Strategise. Excel. — addresses a persistent leadership gap: while women hold nearly half of entry-level corporate roles globally, they occupy just 28% of C-suite positions, according to McKinsey’s Women in the Workplace 2024 report. In Nigeria’s corporate landscape, particularly in financial services and tech-driven sectors, the need for targeted acceleration at the senior level has never been more urgent.

Dr. Ehimuan, anchoring the day as Lead Faculty, set a tone of unapologetic ambition and clarity. “To live the life you want, you need to define it,” she told the room. “Your life purpose is your gift to the world, and your gift to the world is to be your greatest self.” She urged participants to focus relentlessly on the “what” — the vision and goals — trusting that the “how” would follow.

The faculty lineup read like a who’s who of African boardroom power. Opunimi Akinkugbe, Founder of Bestman Games and former Nigerian Ambassador to Greece, emphasised the power of authentic authority: “Authority is not claimed; it is recognized. People trust what feels real, and at the top, authenticity is not optional.”

Bolaji Agbede, Executive Director at Access Holdings, challenged the women to own their identity without apology. “For us as women, we need to spend time knowing who we are, and we need to be unapologetic about it… nurturing, in its most powerful form, is not about comforting people; it is about helping them discover their greatness and creating the strategic ecosystem that allows them to rise.”

Bolanle Austen-Peters, Founder of Terra Kulture and BAP Productions, drove home the importance of executive presence and communication: “Preparation is the foundation of presence. How you carry yourself communicates your authority long before you utter a word… And when you speak, make eye contact. That is where credibility is won.”

The programme’s broader faculty includes heavyweights such as Bola Adesola (Chairman, Ecobank Nigeria), Funke Opeke (Founder, MainOne), Ndidi Nwuneli (President and CEO, The ONE Campaign), Bonita Stewart (Co-Founder and Managing Director, BAG Ventures USA; former Vice President, Global Partnerships at Google), and Ibukun Awosika (Founder, The Chair Centre Group).

Following the high-energy in-person launch, participants will move into a four-week virtual phase focused on navigating stakeholder ecosystems, strategic decision-making in ambiguity, and building organisational culture that scales. The programme culminates in May 2026 with a landmark closing networking evening featuring additional fireside conversations with Bola Adesola, Ibukun Awosika, and other trailblazers.

For organisations, RISE serves as a strategic succession-planning tool to strengthen the female leadership pipeline. For the women themselves, it is a deliberate investment in expanded influence, executive authority, and long-term impact.

Reflecting on the vision behind the programme, Dr. Ehimuan said: “Executive leadership demands continuous growth and the courage to lead with competence and conviction. RISE exists to ensure accomplished women are positioned to define the next chapters of global business.”

Applications for future cohorts and corporate sponsorship details are now open via Beyond Limits at beyondlimits.global/rise.

In a country where women are increasingly driving economic transformation, the launch of RISE signals a bold new chapter — one where the next generation of African leaders is not waiting to be invited to the table, but is being equipped to own it.

News

Malta Guinness Taps Enioluwa Adeoluwa and Rachael Okonkwo as Brand Ambassadors to Celebrate Nigeria’s Multidimensional Youth

by Women Times on April 10, 2026

By Prosper Mene

In a move to connect deeper with Nigeria’s vibrant youth culture, Malta Guinness has named popular lifestyle creator Enioluwa Adeoluwa and Nollywood actress Rachael Okonkwo as its newest brand ambassadors.

The appointments, which follow the recent launch of the brand’s “Nourishing Goodness Every Side of You” campaign, highlight the diverse talents and hustles that define a new generation of Nigerians.

The campaign, unveiled alongside the ambassador signings on March 27, 2026, in Lagos, is an ode to individuals who refuse to be defined by a single lane. It celebrates range, creativity, resilience, and the many sides of personal excellence – from fashion and media to acting and storytelling. Malta Guinness, long known for more than just refreshment, is positioning itself as a brand that truly sees and supports the multifaceted lives of young Nigerians.

Enioluwa Adeoluwa, a dynamic media personality and content creator celebrated for his confidence, fashion flair, and authentic storytelling, perfectly embodies the campaign’s spirit. Rachael Okonkwo, beloved for her powerful on-screen presence and deep connection with audiences, brings her own rich layers of artistry and relatability to the partnership.

Marketing Manager at Guinness Nigeria, Garima Khandelwal, explained the brand’s vision behind the choices: “Malta Guinness has always stood for more than just refreshment. Enioluwa and Rachael represent a generation that is dynamic, creative, and constantly evolving, and their stories resonate with the brand’s spirit. Our ambassadors embody the energy, resilience, and creativity of Nigerian youth.”

Brand Manager Rahmotallahi Adeniyi added that the partnership is about authenticity: “This partnership goes beyond visibility. It is about working with individuals who genuinely reflect the multidimensional nature of Nigerian youth. We wanted ambassadors who live this reality every day; people who are not defined by one path but are constantly creating, building, and expressing themselves in different ways.

Enioluwa shared his excitement, noting the brand’s genuine relatability: “I love the fact that Malta Guinness has always been a brand that feels very real and relatable. It celebrates people as they are, and that’s something I deeply connect with. For me, it is about showing up fully, in all the different things I do, and I’m excited to be on this journey with a brand that understands that.”

Rachael Okonkwo echoed the sentiment: “This means a lot to me. I’m drawn to anything that reminds people to believe in themselves and their abilities. Malta Guinness’ message aligns with who I am and what I stand for.”

To kick off their roles, the new ambassadors joined the Malta Guinness team for an exclusive plant tour, gaining an inside look at the craftsmanship and care that goes into every bottle – a hands-on experience that brought the “Every Side of You” message to life.

As the campaign rolls out, fans can expect more culturally resonant content, storytelling moments, and activations that spotlight the richness of Nigerian youth experiences. For Malta Guinness, this latest chapter reinforces its longstanding role as a brand that doesn’t just refresh – it nourishes every side of who you are.

News Lifestyle

Zikoko’s HERtitude Turns 5: Nigeria’s Favourite Women-Only Gathering Returns with ‘Main Character Energy’

by Women Times on April 10, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Zikoko, Nigeria’s leading youth culture platform, has officially announced the fifth edition of its flagship women-only event, HERtitude, set to take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, in Lagos.

Marking half a decade since its launch in 2022, HERtitude has grown into one of the most anticipated dates on the Nigerian women’s calendar. More than 7,000 women have attended previous editions, transforming the gathering into a cultural staple where participants build meaningful connections, celebrate their individuality, and enjoy unapologetic fun in a safe, women-centred space.

This year’s theme, “Main Character Energy,” promises to amplify the event’s signature vibe. Attendees can look forward to a mix of beloved highlights and fresh experiences, including a fashion show, dance competition, immersive beauty, hair, and wellness activations, as well as live performances and an interactive “Aunty Z” Q&A session tackling real-talk topics around life, money, career, and relationships.

“Five years in, we’ve watched the HERtitude community grow into something bigger than an event,” Zikoko noted in its announcement. “While a lot has changed, the heart of HERtitude hasn’t: women showing up for themselves and each other.”

HERtitude was created to celebrate Nigerian women across all walks of life – from culture and business to media and everyday hustle – and continues to position itself as more than just a party. It is a space for women to “dress like the moment, take up space unapologetically, and meet your community,” according to the official event site.

OPay returns as Platinum Sponsor for the 2026 edition, adding extra value to what organisers describe as “the biggest gathering of hot babes” yet. Tickets are now available at hertitude.zikoko.com, with special discount codes such as BESTIE15 and EASTER20 currently live to make the experience more accessible.

As HERtitude enters its second half-decade, the event continues to stand out for its intentional focus on sisterhood, self-celebration, and creating memories that extend far beyond a single day on the Island. For many Nigerian women, it has become the ultimate annual reminder: you are the main character.

Tickets and full details are available now at hertitude.zikoko.com.

News Health

The #SMEARIT Campaign Ignites Nationwide Advocacy For Cervical Cancer Prevention And Early Detection

by Women Times on April 7, 2026

By Prosper Mene

In a country where cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women, a bold, fun, and powerful movement is changing the narrative. The #SMEARIT Campaign, spearheaded by the Exquisite Magazine Cancer Care (EMAC) Foundation, is lighting up social media feeds and communities across Nigeria, turning awareness into action and saving lives through early detection and prevention.

Cervical cancer is preventable. Yet, every year, thousands of Nigerian women are diagnosed, with many losing their lives due to late detection. According to the World Health Organisation, over 300,000 women die globally from this disease annually, the majority in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria where access to screening and vaccination remains a challenge. The culprit? Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). But here’s the good news: with HPV vaccination, regular screening (Pap smears, HPV testing, or Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid – VIA), and timely treatment of pre-cancerous cells, cervical cancer can be stopped in its tracks.

Enter the #SMEARIT Campaign – a creative, stigma-busting initiative that has been igniting nationwide advocacy since its launch.

Founded by Dr. Tewa Onasanya, the driving force behind Exquisite Magazine and the EMAC Foundation, the campaign uses a simple yet unforgettable challenge to get everyone talking: Smear lipstick on your face, snap a photo or video, post it on social media with #SMEARIT, tag @emac_cervicalcancerfoundation, and challenge your friends to do the same. Men are encouraged to join the movement too –by holding up a #SMEARIT sign – because prevention is everyone’s business.

“Cervical cancer is preventable, yet too many women lose their lives due to late detection. Through this free screening initiative and the #SmearIt campaign, we are encouraging women to get screened, learn about HPV prevention, and spread awareness. Early detection saves lives,” says Dr. Tewa Onasanya.

The campaign has partnered with brands like Amali Cosmetics to offer free cervical cancer screenings in key areas such as Jakande, Lagos, especially around Cervical Cancer Awareness Month (January) and World Cancer Day (February 4). These efforts include education sessions, HPV vaccination drives, and on-ground screenings that have already reached thousands of women. The goal? To normalise conversations, break down myths (no, it doesn’t only affect certain women, and screening isn’t painful or scary), and make prevention accessible nationwide.

How You Can Join the #SMEARIT Movement Today:

Smear your lipstick (or hold the sign if you’re a guy) and take a fun selfie or video.

Post it with #SMEARIT and tag @emac_cervicalcancerfoundation.

Challenge 5–10 friends to join – the more, the merrier!

Visit www.smearitafrica.com to find screening centres near you, book a free or low-cost test, or learn more about the HPV vaccine.

Whether you’re in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, or any corner of the country, your small action creates a powerful ripple. Awareness leads to screening. Screening leads to early detection. Early detection saves lives – and entire families.

Cervical cancer doesn’t have to be a death sentence. With #SMEARIT, Nigeria is rising to eliminate it.

Small action. Powerful impact. Cervical cancer is preventable.

News

UNICEF, Kano Govt Roll Out MAMII to Cut Maternal, Child Deaths

by Women Times on April 7, 2026

By Prosper Mene

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has partnered with the Kano State Primary Healthcare Management Board (KSPHCMB) to intensify efforts against the persistently high rates of maternal and child mortality in the state.

The collaboration was announced during a state-level training workshop on the Maternal, Neonatal and Child Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiative (MAMII) held in Kano on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

UNICEF Nigeria’s Chief of Field Operations and Emergency, Judith Leveillee, who addressed participants at the training, described the situation as requiring urgent and coordinated intervention. The programme targets 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) across more than 200 wards where the need is most acute.

“Only about 50 percent of pregnant women in the state receive care from skilled health providers, while just 36 percent deliver with the assistance of skilled birth attendants,” Leveillee said. She added that under-five mortality stands at 158 deaths per 1,000 live births, calling the figures “a major public health concern that demands sustained action.

Leveillee praised the commitment of both the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and the Kano State Government for aligning with national health priorities. She assured that UNICEF will continue to support the rollout of MAMII alongside the Community-Based Health Worker programme in the selected wards.

The Director General of KSPHCMB, Salisu Ahmad Ibrahim, represented by the Director of Family Health, Aliyu Zubair Maidutse, reaffirmed the Board’s dedication to delivering quality, people-centred healthcare services.

“We are confident that adopting the MAMII approach will improve efficiency and service delivery across primary healthcare facilities,” he stated.

Nana Sanda Abubakar, Director of Community Health Services at NPHCDA, commended the initiative and stressed the importance of strong collaboration, capacity building, and strategic coordination.

“Sustained partnerships are vital for improving health outcomes and expanding access to essential services,” she noted.

The training equipped stakeholders with practical skills in client-centred case management to accelerate service delivery and achieve better health results.

MAMII is a federal government-backed innovation aimed at strengthening primary healthcare, boosting skilled birth attendance, and reducing preventable deaths among mothers and newborns, particularly in high-burden states like Kano.

Officials expressed optimism that the partnership will translate into measurable declines in mortality rates through improved access, community engagement, and data-driven interventions.

The initiative forms part of broader national and international efforts to address Nigeria’s maternal and child health challenges, with Kano identified as a critical focus area due to its population size and prevailing indicators.

News Uncategorized

Nigerian-American Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna Elected Co-President of Harvard Law School Student Government

by Women Times on April 6, 2026

By Prosper Mene

A remarkable achievement highlighting Nigerian excellence in global academia, features Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna, a Nigerian-American first-year student at Harvard Law School, who has been elected co-president of the Harvard Law School (HLS) Student Government for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Umunna will serve alongside her co-president, Tenzin Yonten, also a first-year (1L) student. Their election, announced on Thursday, marks a historic milestone: they are the first rising second-year students (2Ls) to assume the role in at least five years. The duo won the confidence of the HLS student body with a shared vision for inclusive leadership and community service.

Umunna, who holds an MPhil in Criminology from the University of Cambridge as a Gates Cambridge Scholar, brings a rich background in public service and advocacy. She previously worked as a District Representative for U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-MA) and has been actively involved at HLS, serving as a 1L Section Representative and as a committee member with the Harvard Black Law Students Association (HBLSA). She is also a recipient of the prestigious Chayes Fellowship, supporting her upcoming summer internship with the UK’s Public Defender Service. Her mother, Professor Dehlia Umunna, is a Clinical Professor of Law at HLS and Faculty Director of the Criminal Justice Institute.

In her LinkedIn statement, Umunna expressed gratitude: “I am humbled and honored to have been elected 2026-2027 Harvard Law School Student Government Co-President, alongside my wonderful co-candidate Tenzin Y.! Thank you to the Student Body for believing in our vision. We are ready to serve.”

The election has caused widespread celebration within Nigerian and African diaspora communities, with many hailing it as another proud moment of Nigerian representation at one of the world’s most prestigious institutions. HBLSA and other groups have extended congratulations, noting Umunna’s election alongside other Nigerian-American students like Osaze Osayande, who was elected as a class representative.

This achievement underscores the growing influence of young Nigerian talents in elite educational and leadership spaces, from Cambridge to Harvard.

Congratulations to Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna on this well-deserved milestone! Her journey from Gates Cambridge Scholar to HLS student leader inspires many aspiring young Nigerians and African-Americans pursuing excellence in law and public service.

News

Easter: Emulate Christ Through Forgiveness, Soludo’s Wife Urges Christians

by Women Times on April 3, 2026

By Prosper Mene

In the spirit of Easter celebrations, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the elegant wife of Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has called on Christians across Nigeria and beyond to emulate the example of Jesus Christ by choosing forgiveness over bitterness.

The First Lady delivered the heartfelt charge during a special Easter outreach programme held on Friday, April 3, 2026, at the Governor’s Lodge in Awka, where she hosted women from various faith-based groups, widows, and young girls for a morning of prayer, fellowship, and empowerment. Dressed in a graceful white and gold embroidered boubou with subtle floral accents that symbolised resurrection and new beginnings, Mrs. Soludo radiated warmth and grace as she spoke with quiet authority and genuine compassion.

“Today, as we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, I urge every Christian to look inward and ask: Am I truly emulating Christ? The greatest gift He gave us on the cross was forgiveness – even for those who betrayed and crucified Him,” she said. “Forgiveness is not weakness; it is the highest form of strength. It heals families, communities, and even our nation. Let us release every grudge, every pain, and every offence this Easter. That is how we truly rise with Christ.”

Mrs. Soludo further encouraged the gathering to extend forgiveness in their homes, workplaces, and even in the political space, noting that true peace begins with individual hearts. She shared personal reflections on how forgiveness has shaped her own journey as a wife, mother, and public servant, leaving many in the room visibly moved.

The event also featured prayers for peace in Anambra State, gift presentations to widows, and empowerment kits for young girls, reinforcing the Soludo family’s commitment to faith-driven leadership and community development.

Her message comes at a time when many Nigerians are seeking healing amid personal and national challenges, making the call to “forgive as Christ forgave” even more timely and relevant.

Social media is already abuzz with reactions, with many describing the First Lady’s words as “exactly what Nigeria needs this Easter.”

Womentimes joins millions in saying a big Amen! This Easter, may we all choose forgiveness and rise in love, just as Christ did.

What are your thoughts on this powerful Easter charge? Have you been inspired to forgive someone this season? Drop your reflections in the comments and share this with someone who needs to hear it.

News Uncategorized

Former Minister Onikepo Akande Urges Women to Shun Self-Destructive Practices and Embrace Mutual Support for Leadership

by Women Times on April 2, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Ibadan – Former Minister of Industry, Chief Onikepo Akande, has called on Nigerian women, particularly in Ibadan, to reject self-destructive practices and instead support one another in pursuing leadership positions amid challenges posed by a patriarchal society.

Akande, who also holds the title of Iyaleye Iyalode of Ibadan, made the call while delivering the keynote address at the maiden 2026 Ibadan Women’s Conference held at Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo, in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The conference, themed “Developing Ibadan Women Through Leadership Advocacy,” formed part of activities marking the Ibadan Cultural Festival 2026, held in honour of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja. The broader festival theme is “Ibadan: Remembering Our Past, Understanding Our Present, Designing Our Future.” It commenced on Monday, March 23, 2026, and brought together traditional leaders, academics, policymakers, and professionals.

In her address, Akande described the patriarchal society as “shark-infested waters” and stressed the need for women to act as “their sisters’ keepers.” She encouraged them to build strong networks, seize training opportunities, play to their strengths, and approach leadership with confidence, courage, and boldness.“The sky is so wide and everybody can soar,” she said, urging women to empower one another rather than engage in practices that undermine collective progress.

Guest lecturer Yetunde Adegoke, in her presentation titled ‘Empowering Ibadan Women for Cultural Preservation and Socio-Economic Growth,’ noted that women’s empowerment is a cherished heritage that must be preserved and promoted. She highlighted the role of women’s leadership advocacy in revitalising cultural heritage, facilitating intergenerational knowledge transfer, and strengthening community identity and unity.President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Adeniyi Ajewole, explained that the conference was approved because of the significant historical roles women played in the formation and development of Ibadan. He pointed to the Iyalode of Ibadanland ascendancy structure, which mirrors the Olubadan line, as recognition that women’s contributions cannot be overlooked.Chairman of the Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, Mogaji Moshood Gbolagade, said the event aims to empower women, promote their participation in leadership, encourage collaboration to overcome challenges, build relationships, and strive for excellence.

Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun, commended the initiative and called for actionable recommendations on advancing women’s leadership and advocacy. He also drew attention to the deteriorating state of some ancient landmarks and shrines in the city due to encroachment by land grabbers.The conference underscores ongoing efforts to amplify women’s voices in leadership and cultural preservation as Ibadan reflects on its history while shaping its future.