News - Women Times

‘I Was Cursed’ — TV Host Morayo Afolabi-Brown Recounts Disturbing Phone Attack

by Women Times on July 3, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria | April 4, 2026

Popular TV host Morayo Afolabi-Brown has opened up about a disturbing experience after receiving a threatening phone call in which she said she was cursed.

The media personality, known for her work on Your View on TVC, recounted the incident during a recent appearance, saying the attack left her shaken.

According to Morayo, the caller made curses and disturbing remarks directed at her and her family during the phone attack. She described the moment as one of the most unsettling experiences she has had in her career.

“I was cursed on the phone. It was very disturbing and not something you expect,” she said, adding that she had to pray and stay strong for her family afterward.

Morayo did not disclose the identity of the caller or the reason behind the attack, but she noted that public figures often face harassment and intimidation.

She, however, said she has put the incident behind her and remains focused on her work and advocacy. The TV host also used the opportunity to speak against online and phone bullying, urging people to be more responsible in how they engage others.

Fans and colleagues have since flooded her social media with messages of support, commending her for speaking out and for her resilience.

The incident has again sparked conversations about the mental and emotional toll of public attacks on media personalities in Nigeria.

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Governor grants full scholarship from undergraduate to PhD after 344 UTME score

by Women Times on June 29, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Awka, Anambra State – April 25, 2026

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has awarded a comprehensive scholarship to Chiazo Umeaniba, a student of Maria Regina Model Comprehensive Secondary School, Nnewi, after she scored 344 in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME.

Soludo announced the award on Sunday during the first anniversary celebration of Solution Fun City in Awka. The governor made the announcement after Umeaniba, who is the school’s senior prefect, performed as one of the dancers entertaining guests at the event. He was subsequently informed of her UTME score.

Declaring the scholarship, Soludo said it would cover her education from undergraduate to PhD level.

“Your education from undergraduate to PhD is on me. Yes, the bill is on me. I was also a senior prefect like you, I made the best result,” the governor said.

He explained why the gesture touched him:

“You know why I’m touched: I was a senior prefect like her, I went into the university and made a first class honours and won all the departmental and faculty prizes. I am also wishing that she, as a senior prefect and making 344 in UTME, is going in there, I can see her coming out with first class honours, but the bill I will pay. Even after my tenure as a governor, I will continue to pay the bills”.

The scholarship gesture aligns with Soludo’s administration’s push to reward academic excellence and position Anambra as a hub for learning and innovation.

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At 16, Osasere Okundayo Sets New Record as Nigeria’s Youngest Chartered Accountant

by Women Times on June 29, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria – April 25, 2026

Sixteen-year-old Osasere Okundayo has made history after qualifying as a Chartered Accountant through the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN, becoming the youngest person to achieve the professional qualification in the country.

Her feat surpasses the previous record set in 2022 by Jonathan Adewale, who became Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant at age 17 after completing the rigorous ICAN professional examinations. The qualification is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most demanding professional certifications, typically obtained by graduates and professionals after years of study.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, congratulated Okundayo, describing the milestone as a reflection of hard work, discipline, resilience and strong commitment to excellence.

“I also congratulate her parents, family, teachers, mentors, and everyone who has supported and guided her journey. Their encouragement, sacrifices, and belief in her abilities have undoubtedly contributed to this exceptional success,” the minister said.

Olawande reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Youth Development’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians through programmes and policies aimed at helping them realise their potential.

“Osasere’s achievement reinforces our confidence that the future of Nigeria is bright in the hands of focused, determined, and talented young citizens,” he said.

The minister wished the teenager greater success in the years ahead, expressing hope that her story would inspire millions of young Nigerians.

Okundaye’s record is expected to encourage more secondary school students to pursue professional certifications early, beyond the traditional university route.

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‘It’s not easy’ — Mr Ibu’s widow appeals for financial assistance as stepson counters claims

by Women Times on June 25, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria – April 25, 2026

Mrs Stella Maris Okafor, widow of late Nollywood veteran actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, has made an emotional appeal for financial support, saying life has been difficult since the actor’s death in March 2024.

Speaking with journalists in Lagos on Thursday, Mrs Okafor said she has been struggling with medical bills, children’s school fees, and daily upkeep without her husband’s income.

“It’s not easy,” she said tearfully. “Since Baba passed, the responsibility has been on me alone. The children are still in school and there are many things to take care of. I am appealing to good Nigerians, fans, and kind-hearted people to assist us. Any support will go a long way.”

However, Mr Ibu’s stepson, Daniel Okafor, has disputed the widow’s claims. In a statement posted online, Daniel alleged that the family has received substantial donations from fans, colleagues, and organizations since the actor’s illness began in 2023 and after his death.

“The public should know the truth,” Daniel said. “A lot of money was raised for my dad’s treatment and for the family’s upkeep. We need transparency on how those funds were managed. It is unfair for the widow to keep asking the public for money without accountability.”

Daniel further claimed that he and other family members have been sidelined from decisions concerning the late actor’s estate and donations.

Mr Ibu, famed for his comic roles and protruding stomach, died on March 2, 2024 at a Lagos hospital after a prolonged illness that led to the amputation of one of his legs. He starred in over 200 movies including Mr Ibu, Keziekele, and 9 Wives.

Since his death, Mrs Okafor and the children have received visits and donations from fellow actors, fans, and the Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN. The AGN Enugu State chapter said it is monitoring the situation and has urged both parties to settle differences amicably “in the interest of Mr Ibu’s legacy and the children”.

Fans on social media have reacted with mixed views, with some calling for transparency while others urged Nigerians to support the widow regardless of the family dispute.

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Mirabel’s Sexual Assault Claims False, Lack Merit for Prosecution — Ogun AG

by Women Times on June 24, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Abeokuta, Ogun State

The Ogun State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice has said that sexual assault claims made by an individual identified as Mirabel are false and lack sufficient merit for prosecution.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Justice, the AG said the allegations were reviewed by relevant authorities after due investigation. According to the statement, the evidence gathered did not establish the elements required to sustain criminal charges under Ogun State law.

“After a thorough review of the case file, including statements, medical reports, and other materials, the Ministry concluded that the allegations are unsubstantiated and do not meet the threshold for prosecution,” the statement read.

The Ministry emphasized that the decision was based strictly on the facts and evidence available, and not on the character of any party involved. It also noted that the outcome does not prevent new evidence from being presented in the future if it becomes available.

The AG’s office reiterated its commitment to pursuing all cases involving sexual and gender-based violence where credible evidence exists, while also ensuring that investigations are fair and evidence-based to protect the rights of all parties.

Legal observers note that a decision not to prosecute due to insufficient evidence is a standard part of criminal procedure. It allows the state to maintain the integrity of the justice system while encouraging reporting of genuine cases.

Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the legal process to run its course.

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Ogun CJ Unveils Multi-Door Courthouse to Speed Up Justice Delivery

by Women Times on June 24, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Abeokuta, Ogun State

The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Hon. Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has unveiled a new multi-door courthouse in Abeokuta, a facility designed to decongest courts and provide faster, alternative ways to resolve disputes.

The multi-door courthouse model offers several “doors” to justice beyond traditional litigation. Cases can now be channeled into mediation, arbitration, conciliation, or other Alternative Dispute Resolution, ADR, mechanisms depending on what best fits the dispute. The goal is to reduce case backlogs and give citizens quicker, less costly outcomes.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Justice Dipeolu said the courthouse reflects the judiciary’s commitment to reform and citizen-centered justice. “Not every disagreement needs to end in a courtroom battle. This facility gives parties options that are faster, confidential, and preserve relationships,” she noted.

Ogun State has seen rising civil and commercial cases in recent years. Court officials expect the new center to ease pressure on conventional courtrooms, especially for family, contract, land, and debt matters that are well suited to mediation.

Legal practitioners and civil society groups at the event welcomed the move. Many described it as a practical step toward modernizing justice delivery in the state. Parties with disputes will now be assessed at intake and guided to the most appropriate resolution path, with trained neutrals and court-annexed mediators on site.

With the multi-door courthouse now operational, Ogun joins other states leveraging ADR to make justice more accessible. For residents and businesses in the state, it means fewer delays, lower legal costs, and more control over how their cases are resolved.

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A New Born and Birthday! Ini Dima-Okojie Welcomes Her Baby Boy

by Women Times on June 24, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria

Double celebration for Nollywood star Ini Dima-Okojie. The actress announced she has welcomed her first child, a baby boy, while also marking her birthday this week.

Ini shared the news on Instagram with a tender black-and-white photo cradling her newborn. The post was captioned simply with a blue heart and baby emoji, letting the moment speak for itself. Fans immediately flooded the comments with congratulations, prayers, and birthday wishes rolled into one.

The timing made the celebration even sweeter. Arriving on her birthday, the baby boy’s birth turned what’s already a special day for Ini into a once-in-a-lifetime milestone. “A new born and birthday” quickly became the sentiment fans repeated online.

Known for roles in Blood Sisters, Fate of Alakada, and _Skinny Girl in Transit, Ini has kept much of her pregnancy journey private. The announcement marks her first public confirmation of motherhood. She and her husband, Abasi Ene-Obong, tied the knot in a private ceremony in 2022.

Friends and colleagues from the film industry, including Funke Akindele, Kate Henshaw, and Toke Makinwa, were among the first to send love. Messages praised both Ini’s new chapter as a mother and her impact on Nollywood.

For Ini, 2026 is already shaping up to be her most memorable year yet — a new life to love, and a birthday she’ll never forget.

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Lerato Makume on Building Brands Rooted in African Culture in Her Role as a Marketing Director

by Women Times on June 23, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Johannesburg, South Africa

For marketing director Lerato Makume, the future of branding isn’t about copying global trends. It’s about looking homeward. In her current role leading brand strategy for a pan-African consumer company, Makume is proving that culture isn’t just a campaign theme but the foundation.

“African culture is not a niche,” Makume says. “It’s 54 countries, thousands of languages, and stories that have been selling long before billboards existed.” That philosophy drives how her team builds campaigns, product names, and even packaging. Instead of retrofitting Western concepts, they start with local insight: proverbs, aesthetics, rituals, and everyday behaviors that already resonate.

Under her leadership, recent campaigns have leaned into indigenous textiles, isiZulu storytelling formats, and community-driven activations. One recent product launch used oral history techniques to introduce the brand in rural markets, with elders narrating the brand story in local languages. The result: higher recall, stronger trust, and sales that outperformed projections.

Makume argues that “rooted” doesn’t mean “traditional only.” She blends modern marketing tools with African context. Data analytics inform which cultural insights scale. Digital platforms amplify stories that once lived only at community gatherings. The goal is brands that feel familiar at home and compelling abroad.

Her approach is also shifting internal culture. She’s pushed for marketing teams that reflect the markets they serve, and for creative briefs that include cultural consultants alongside designers. “If your boardroom doesn’t look like your customer, your brand won’t speak their language,” she notes.

Industry observers say Makume’s work offers a blueprint for companies trying to build long-term equity in Africa. Authenticity drives loyalty, and loyalty drives growth. For her, success is measured not just in market share, but in whether consumers see themselves in the brand.

While African consumer markets grow and global brands compete for attention, Lerato Makume’s message is clear: the most powerful brand story is often the one that was already there. You just have to listen, respect it, and build with it.

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Tems Lights Up Obama Presidential Center Grand Opening with Crimson Gown and “Me & U” Performance

by Women Times on June 22, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Grammy-winning artist Tems brought global attention to the Obama Presidential Center Grand Opening this weekend, delivering a show-stopping performance of her hit single “Me & U” in a breathtaking crimson gown.

The event, which marked the official public opening of the cultural and civic space on Chicago’s South Side, drew world leaders, activists, artists, and community members. Tems took the stage as one of the featured performers, celebrating art, leadership, and the next generation of changemakers, core themes of the Center.

Dressed in a floor-length, sculpted crimson gown with dramatic detailing, Tems matched the magnitude of the moment. Her stripped-back, soulful rendition of “Me & U” drew audible reactions from the crowd, blending Afrobeats intimacy with the gravitas of the historic occasion. Clips of the performance quickly spread online, with fans praising both her vocal delivery and the symbolic power of her look.

The Obama Presidential Center is designed as more than a library — it’s a space for civic engagement and cultural expression. Tems’ appearance underscored the role of African artists in shaping global conversations around leadership and identity.

For Tems, the performance adds to a year of milestone moments that continue to position her as one of Nigeria’s most influential cultural exports. From the Grammys to global stages, she has consistently used fashion and music to tell stories that resonate far beyond the music itself.

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From Grid Gaps to Green Power: How Nkechi Okenwa Is Redefining Renewable Energy in Nigeria

by Women Times on June 22, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria

In a sector long dominated by men, Nigerian engineer and clean energy advocate Nkechi Okenwa is rewriting the script. Through innovative solar solutions and intentional mentorship, she is not only expanding access to renewable energy across underserved communities but also building a new generation of women leaders in Nigeria’s power sector.

Okenwa, founder and CEO of a Lagos-based renewable energy startup, has made it her mission to tackle two of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges: energy poverty and gender imbalance in STEM. Her company designs and installs affordable off-grid solar systems for rural clinics, schools, and small businesses — places where unreliable national grid power has stalled growth for decades.

From the outskirts of Oyo to communities in Kaduna, Okenwa’s projects have brought clean, consistent electricity to locations that national infrastructure has yet to reach. The systems power vaccine refrigeration, light up classrooms after dark, and keep small enterprises running without dependence on costly diesel generators.

Beyond the technology, what sets her work apart is the model. Each installation is paired with local training programs where women in the community learn basic solar maintenance, installation, and system monitoring. The goal: create jobs and ensure the solutions last long after her team leaves.

Redefining leadership in a male-dominated industry

“Nigeria’s energy future cannot be built with only half its talent,” Okenwa says. At industry forums and university panels, she speaks openly about the barriers women face in engineering and energy — from limited funding access to stereotypes about technical roles.

Her response has been action. Through mentorship bootcamps and internship pipelines, she has trained over 200 young women in solar design, project management, and energy entrepreneurship. Several of her early mentees now run their own micro-installation teams across the South-West.

Industry observers note that Okenwa’s approach is shifting perceptions. By placing women at the center of design, deployment, and leadership, she’s proving that clean energy expansion and gender equity can advance together.

A vision for Nigeria’s grid-free future

With Nigeria’s energy demand projected to double by 2030, decentralized renewable solutions like Okenwa’s are gaining traction as practical alternatives to centralized grid expansion. She argues that women-led, community-based energy models can deliver faster, cheaper, and more sustainable results, especially in rural areas.

For Okenwa, the work is personal. “When a girl sees another woman climbing a rooftop to install a solar panel, her idea of what’s possible changes,” she says. “That’s the reimagining — not just of energy, but of who gets to lead it.”

As Nigeria pushes toward its renewable energy targets, leaders like Nkechi Okenwa are showing that innovation is not just about new technology. It’s about who gets to build it, own it, and benefit from it.