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‎House of Representatives Approves Bill for Specialized Women’s Hospital in Imo State ‎

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The House of Representatives has passed a bill for the establishment of a National Hospital for Women in Ideato, Imo State, through its second reading.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, representing Ideato North and South Federal Constituency, aims to address critical gaps in women’s healthcare, with a particular focus on obstetrics fistula, maternal care, and reproductive health research.The bill, which was put to a voice vote by presiding officer Hon. Benjamin Kalu, seeks to create a specialized tertiary hospital dedicated to promoting reproductive and maternal health, preventing and treating obstetrics fistula, and serving as a national center of excellence for women’s healthcare. According to Hon. Ugochinyere, obstetric fistula remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with an estimated 12,000 new cases annually, disproportionately affecting women in rural and underserved areas like Ideato.

‎ ‎“Despite efforts by various organizations, access to quality treatment and preventive measures remains a significant challenge, particularly in rural communities,” Ugochinyere stated during the debate on the bill’s general principles. He emphasized that the National Hospital for Women will not only provide specialized treatment but also focus on education, prevention, and training for healthcare professionals to enhance the quality of care for Nigerian women, especially in disadvantaged regions.

‎ ‎The proposed hospital is expected to serve as a hub for research and sensitization, addressing maternal complications and improving overall healthcare delivery. The initiative has garnered widespread support, with stakeholders highlighting its potential to reduce maternal mortality and improve health outcomes for women across Nigeria.The bill’s passage through the second reading marks a crucial milestone in its legislative journey, with further deliberations and a potential third reading to follow before it is sent to the Senate for concurrence. If successful, the National Hospital for Women in Ideato could become a transformative step in addressing Nigeria’s maternal and reproductive health challenges.

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‎Hajiya Nana Shettima Expresses Gratitude to President Tinubu and First Lady for 50th Birthday Support

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎Hajiya Nana Shettima, wife of Nigeria’s Vice President, has conveyed heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for their warm support and goodwill messages on her 50th birthday, celebrated on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

In a statement on Wednesday, Mrs. Shettima described their gestures as deeply humbling and uplifting, highlighting the significant impact of their recognition.“My deepest and most profound gratitude goes to our beloved Father and Leader, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his heartfelt and gracious birthday message,” Mrs. Shettima said. “Your thoughtful and inspiring words have deeply touched my heart and soul. I am truly humbled and honored by your generous recognition of my modest contributions to the growth and development of our great nation, Nigeria.”

‎ ‎Mrs. Shettima also extended special thanks to the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her warm tribute, which described her as a “worthy partner.” She noted, “I feel profoundly honored and blessed to be referred to as a ‘Worthy Partner’ in your warm-hearted and uplifting birthday wishes on this remarkable milestone of my life.” She praised the First Lady’s leadership and advocacy, calling her an extraordinary source of inspiration for women across Nigeria.

‎ ‎In her message, Mrs. Shettima also acknowledged the support from the wives of the 36 state governors, whom she described as her sisters under the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum, for their love and fellowship. “I deeply appreciate your genuine love, unwavering support, and warm fellowship on this special and memorable day,” she said.

‎ ‎The First Lady, in a personal goodwill message titled “50 Golden Cheers, Your Excellency,” lauded Mrs. Shettima’s dedication to her family, Borno State, and Nigeria, citing her contributions to humanitarian causes and national development. “Working with you has not only been pleasurable but complementary,” Senator Tinubu added, celebrating their collaborative efforts.

‎ ‎The outpouring of support is a testament to the strong partnership between the families of Nigeria’s President and Vice President, showing their shared commitment to the nation’s progress

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Indian Brothers Marry Same Woman in Rare Polyandry Ceremony

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By Prosper Mene 

‎In Himachal Pradesh, two brothers, Pradeep and Kapil Negi, married the same woman, Sunita Chauhan, in a three-day ceremony that has revived an ancient tribal tradition and caused widespread debate.

The wedding, which took place on July 12, 2025, in Shillai village of Sirmaur district, was a public celebration of the Hatti tribe’s polyandrous custom known as “Jodidara,” drawing hundreds of villagers who participated with folk songs, dances, and sacred rituals.

‎The Jodidara tradition, also referred to as Draupadi Pratha due to its resemblance to the Mahabharata epic where Princess Draupadi married five brothers, allows brothers to share a wife to preserve ancestral land and maintain family unity. Under this custom, the wife alternates between brothers on a mutually agreed schedule, and children are raised collectively, with the eldest brother recognized as the legal father. “We followed the tradition publicly as we are proud of it, and it was a joint decision,” Pradeep Negi told the Press Trust of India. Sunita Chauhan emphasized her consent, stating, “I was aware of this tradition and chose it willingly. I respect the bond we’ve formed.”

‎Though polyandry is illegal under India’s Hindu Marriage Act of 1955, the Himachal Pradesh High Court recognizes Jodidara under customary “Jodidar Law” for certain tribal communities, including the Hatti, who were granted Scheduled Tribe status in 2022.

‎The practice, historically has it’s root in preventing land grabbing and fostering familial bonds in resource-scarce Himalayan regions, remains socially accepted in places like Sirmaur, though it is declining due to rising literacy and socio-economic changes.

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‎Local leaders, including lawmaker Harshwardhan Singh Chauhan, defended the custom, citing its deep cultural roots. “We have a customary law to protect polyandry,” he told reporters. Kundan Singh Shastri, a Hatti leader, linked it to economic necessity, explaining that it prevents land division and ensures security in tribal life.

‎However, the All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) condemned the practice, with General Secretary Mariam Dhawale calling it “an act of women’s exploitation” that violates fundamental rights.

‎ ‎This rare public display of polyandry is one of only five such marriages in the region over the past six years.

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U.S. Olympic Committee Bars Transgender Women from Women’s Events in accordance to Trump’s Executive Order

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) has implemented a significant policy change, barring transgender women from competing in women’s sports events, aligning with an executive order issued by President Donald Trump in February 2025 titled ‎“Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports.” 

‎The decision, announced quietly on July 21, 2025, through an update to the USOPC’s Athlete Safety Policy, mandates that all national governing bodies (NGBs) under its umbrella, including those overseeing swimming, athletics, and fencing, update their policies to comply.

‎The policy shift follows a similar move by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), which, one day after Trump’s executive order, restricted women’s sports competitions to athletes assigned female at birth. The USOPC’s updated policy, tucked under a subsection labeled “Additional Requirements,” emphasizes “ensuring fair and safe competition environments for women” in accordance with Executive Order 14201 and the Ted Stevens Olympic & Amateur Sports Act.

‎The executive order threatens to withhold federal funding from organizations that permit transgender women to compete in women’s sports, a directive the USOPC, as a federally chartered organization, says it is obligated to follow.

‎ ‎USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland and President Gene Sykes stated in a letter to the Team USA community, “Our revised policy emphasizes the importance of ensuring fair and safe competition environments for women. All National Governing Bodies are required to update their applicable policies in alignment.” The USOPC noted it has engaged in “respectful and constructive conversations with federal officials” since the executive order was signed.

‎The policy change impacts all levels of Olympic sports, from grassroots to elite competitions, as the USOPC oversees approximately 50 NGBs. For example, USA Fencing has already updated its guidelines, effective August 1, 2025, to restrict women’s competitions to athletes assigned female at birth, while allowing transgender women, transgender men, nonbinary, and intersex athletes to compete in men’s events. USA Swimming and USA Track and Field are consulting with the USOPC to align their policies, with some sports already adhering to stricter international federation rules barring transgender women who went through male puberty.

‎ ‎The International Olympic Committee (IOC), under new president Kirsty Coventry, has allowed individual sports federations to set their own eligibility rules, with swimming, cycling, and track and field already implementing restrictions based on puberty or testosterone levels. The IOC’s 2021 Framework on Fairness, Inclusion, and Non-Discrimination promotes stakeholder consultation and science-based criteria but stops short of a uniform policy, creating a patchwork of regulations across sports.

‎ ‎While Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Summer Olympics, the USOPC’s decision could set a starter for global sports governance.

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Emir of Kano Demands Tougher Penalties for Wife Beaters

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Muhammadu Sanusi II, the 16th Emir of Kano, isn’t holding back. On Monday, he took a bold stand against men who beat their wives, calling for harsher punishments and warning that any traditional leader in his domain caught abusing their spouse could lose their title. “No true Muslim beats his wife,” he declared during a visit from a team led by Bayero University’s Center for Islamic Civilization and Interfaith Dialogue (CICID) and the Development Research and Project Center (dRPC) at his palace.

‎Sanusi’s words is a reaction to as violence cases surge in Kano. He slammed the excuse some men use, claiming they’re “correcting” their wives through violence. “What we’re seeing isn’t correction; it’s brutal beating and injuring women,” he said. The Emir urged Imams and clerics to step up, preaching that Islam respects and dignifies women more than any other faith. “We need to teach our people this,” he insisted.The meeting was part of a Ford Foundation project to train Muslim leaders in northern Nigeria to fight gender-based violence (GBV). Dr. Taofeek Abubakar Hussain, who led the delegation, backed Sanusi, saying cultural habits, not Islam are to blame for the violence. He pushed for a Kano State Islamic family law to tackle GBV and suggested training for traditional title holders to root out the problem.Sanusi, who studied Islamic family law for his PhD, shared a grim finding from his research: nine Shari’a courts in Kano showed domestic violence is rampant. He called for dusting off existing Islamic laws and putting them to work. “We’ve got the tools; let’s use them,” he said. And he meant business, warning village and district heads: “Beat your wife, and you’re out.”This isn’t the first time Sanusi’s stirred the pot. Last December, he raised eyebrows by saying he’d told his daughters to hit back if their husbands slapped them.

‎Some, like former Senator Shehu Sani, called it reckless; others cheered his no-nonsense stance. On Social Media people were buzzing with support for his latest call, seeing it as a push to protect women in a region where one in three faces abuse.Sanusi’s not just talking tough, he’s using his clout as a revered leader to challenge deep-rooted norms. With his mix of scholarship and authority, he’s making it clear: beating women has no place in Kano, or in Islam.

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Kemi Badenoch’s Claim on Nigerian Citizenship Sparks Controversy, Legal Expert Femi Falana Responds ‎

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎Kemi Badenoch, the UK Conservative Party leader and Secretary of State for Business and Trade, has faced sharp criticism from prominent Nigerian human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) over her recent remarks on Nigerian citizenship laws.

In a CNN interview with Fareed Zakaria on July 14, 2025, Badenoch claimed she could not pass Nigerian citizenship to her children because she is a woman and described acquiring Nigerian citizenship as “virtually impossible.” Falana has labeled these statements as misleading and a display of “utter ignorance” of Nigeria’s legal framework.Badenoch, born in the UK to Nigerian parents and raised in Lagos until age 16, suggested that Nigeria’s citizenship laws are restrictive compared to the UK’s more lenient immigration policies. She stated, “It’s virtually impossible, for example, to get Nigerian citizenship. I have that citizenship by virtue of my parents. I can’t give it to my children because I’m a woman.” These remarks were part of a wider discussion on immigration, where she argued that Nigerians can acquire British citizenship relatively easily while implying stricter rules in Nigeria.

‎In a rebuttal, Falana clarified that Badenoch’s claims misrepresent Nigeria’s constitution. Citing Section 25(b) and (c) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, he explained that any person born outside Nigeria to at least one Nigerian parent is automatically a Nigerian citizen by birth, regardless of the parent’s gender. “Contrary to Kemi Badenoch’s misleading claim, her children are Nigerians because she is a Nigerian,” Falana stated. He further referenced Section 42(2), which prohibits discrimination based on gender or birth circumstances, emphasizing that Badenoch’s children are dual citizens of Nigeria and the UK.

‎ ‎Falana also addressed Badenoch’s assertion that acquiring Nigerian citizenship is “virtually impossible” for foreigners. He pointed to Sections 26 and 27 of the Nigerian Constitution, which allow citizenship through registration or naturalization for those meeting specific conditions, such as marriage to a Nigerian citizen or long-term residency. However, Falana acknowledged a gender disparity in the law, noting that while a woman married to a Nigerian man can register for citizenship, a man married to a Nigerian woman does not have the same right, a patriarchal flaw he believes requires urgent reform.

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‎ ‎Falana accused Badenoch of denigrating Nigeria to curry favor with the British electorate, a sentiment shared by Nigerian Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who previously criticized her for similar remarks in December 2024. Shettima suggested Badenoch could “remove the Kemi from her name” if she was not proud of her Nigerian heritage, to which her spokesman responded that she “is not the PR for Nigeria” and stands by her statements.

‎ ‎As Falana noted, Badenoch’s children remain Nigerian citizens unless they choose to renounce it upon reaching adulthood, per Section 29 of the Constitution.

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Dr. Nonye Soludo Honored by NMA for Pioneering Health Revolution in Anambra ‎

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Anambra State Branch, celebrated Dr. Nonye Soludo, wife of the state governor, with a prestigious merit award during its 2025 Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference in Awka.

The honor recognizes her trailblazing Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, which has redefined public health advocacy through grassroots innovation and community empowerment.Dr. Soludo stood out as the only female recipient at the event, a nod to the transformative reach of her health movement. Launched over three years ago, her initiative has touched thousands with programs promoting nutrition, maternal and child health, and women’s empowerment. From vibrant community fitness walks to school-based health clubs and organic garden projects, Dr. Soludo has made healthy living accessible and practical for all.“She’s brought health to the people’s doorsteps,” said Dr. Chukwuma Ezenwa, a senior NMA member. “Her radio shows and market outreaches use local wisdom to inspire change, making wellness a way of life.” Dr. Soludo’s efforts include free health insurance for 1,000 persons with disabilities, multivitamin distribution to over 26,000 elderly residents, and the Pad Bank Initiative, ensuring schoolgirls have access to sanitary products for uninterrupted education.In her acceptance speech, Dr. Soludo called the award “a shared victory for every Anambra resident embracing healthier choices.” She highlighted the growth of over 325 school-based Healthy Living Clubs, fostering a new generation committed to wellness.

‎Dr. Nonye Soludo’s recognition unveils a deeper truth: her movement is quietly planting seeds for a revolution that transcends borders. With whispers of her model inspiring neighboring states, the Healthy Living Initiative may soon spark a nationwide wave, proving that one woman’s vision can redefine a nation’s heartbeat.

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Africa’s Education Future: Experts Call for Equity and Innovation at EduFuture 2025

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The EduFuture Conference 2025, held on July 10 at the American Corner Ikeja, brought together a powerful coalition of voices committed to reimagining education across Africa. From government advisors and EdTech leaders to grassroots advocates and nonprofit founders, the conference delivered one resounding message: Africa’s education future must be built on equity, innovation, and collective action.

The Covener, EduFuture Conference

Organized by the Dolly Children Foundation, the one-day event was the brainchild of Adedolapo Osuntuyi, an education advocate and founder of the Foundation. With over 18 years of experience working with underserved children, Osuntuyi has become a leading voice in Nigeria’s push for education reform.

“We can’t keep having the same conversations without measurable action,” Osuntuyi said in her welcome address. “EduFuture is about doing the work-raising questions, building partnerships, and acting on the urgency of now.”

The conference kicked off with a thought-provoking keynote from Dr. Adétọ́lá Aríyìíkẹ́ Salau, Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Kwara State on Education, Policy Formulation and Human Capital Development, who challenged stakeholders to align educational systems with the realities of today’s learners.

“We’re using last century’s solutions for this century’s problems,” she warned. “We must reimagine African education, ensuring children are given the space to dream, create, and lead. This conference reaffirmed my belief in equity across gender and ability.”

Throughout the day, panels and dialogues addressed persistent gaps in Nigeria’s education ecosystem: inadequate resources, poor infrastructure, exclusion of children with disabilities, and outdated curriculum.

“EduFuture has been a fantastic space filled with powerful calls to action,” said Tobiloba Ajayi. “Unlike many conferences that dwell in talk, this one focused on what we must begin to do immediately.”

“The conversations here are essential for Africa’s growth,” added Bimpe Femi-Oyewo. “It was inspiring to see educators and stakeholders ready to build the next skillset for future leaders. Adedolapo has done something truly significant here.”

Speakers emphasized the need for inclusive learning and curriculum redesign tailored to children’s diverse learning styles and socio-economic backgrounds.

“If we want every child to have access to quality education, we must be ready to do the work,” noted Bose Ogidan. “Designing inclusive curriculum isn’t optional, it’s necessary.”

Temitope Ifegbesan underscored the need for grassroots involvement. “Partnerships matter. Religious bodies, NGOs, citizens, everyone has a role to play. The government can’t do it alone.”

The panel sessions stressed that building an effective education system requires input from all sectors: Public, private, and nonprofit, working in synergy.

“At EduFuture, we discussed how to mobilize stakeholders to improve learning outcomes and increase resource mobilization,” shared Temidayo Musa. “Every player must contribute to the bigger picture.”

Obasanjo Fajemirokun described the conference as a necessary platform for real collaboration. “It brought together people from across the education sector to think, share insights, and act. We need more of this.”

A memorable highlight of the conference was a spoken word performance by Perpetual Eghonghon Adenuga, whose poetic delivery on equity, unity, and the power of education earned warm applause and a standing ovation. Her performance echoed the day’s core values, hope, justice, and possibility.

In a symbolic gesture of progress, attendees were also given an exclusive preview of StratED Futures, a forthcoming social enterprise focused on advancing education reform through policy, research, and community-driven consulting.

The EduFuture Conference 2025 may have ended, but its message lives on: education transformation is not a distant dream, it’s a responsibility we all share today.

“This isn’t just a conference,” Osuntuyi said. “It’s a movement to build the future through children. And it begins with us.”

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Multiple Pregnancies Increase Bleeding Risk After Delivery, Experts Warn

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Gynecologists in Ogun State have cited a serious health concern for women with multiple pregnancies, noting that having many children can increase the risk of excessive bleeding after childbirth, a condition known as postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). This potentially life-threatening issue requires greater awareness and access to quality medical care, experts say.

‎Postpartum hemorrhage occurs when a woman loses more than 500 milliliters of blood after a vaginal delivery or 1,000 milliliters after a cesarean section. According to Dr. Aisha Olanrewaju, an obstetrician at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, women who have given birth five or more times are at higher risk because repeated pregnancies can weaken the uterus. “After many pregnancies, the uterus may not contract properly to stop bleeding after delivery,” she explained. This condition, called uterine atony, is the leading cause of PPH.Factors like closely spaced pregnancies, large babies, or twins can further increase the risk.

‎ In Ogun State, where large families are common due to cultural and economic reasons, this issue is particularly concerning. Hon. Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, emphasized the need for better education and healthcare access. “We must inform women about the risks of frequent pregnancies and ensure they have access to emergency care,” she said at a recent maternal health event.

‎To prevent PPH, doctors recommend delivering in hospitals with trained staff, using medications like oxytocin to help the uterus contract, and monitoring women closely after birth. Women with many pregnancies should also take iron supplements to prepare for potential blood loss. “Quick action can save lives,” Dr. Olanrewaju stressed. “Women should seek help immediately if they notice heavy bleeding or feel faint after delivery.”Untreated PPH can lead to severe complications, including shock or organ failure. Treatments include medications, uterine massage, or, in rare cases, surgery. Health officials are also advocating for family planning to space pregnancies and reduce risks, improving outcomes for mothers and babies.

‎For more information on maternal health programs in Ogun State, contact the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

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High-Profile Women in Ogun State Celebrate First Lady Bamidele Abiodun’s Empowerment Efforts

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By Prosper Mene 

‎A group of prominent women in Ogun State, led by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, has lauded the First Lady, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, for her commitment to women’s empowerment and child welfare. The commendations came during a special event at the Juvenile Correctional Centre in Asero, where Mrs. Abiodun celebrated her birthday, showcasing her dedication to supporting vulnerable populations.

‎The event, attended by dignitaries including the Deputy Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Ajayi Bolanle; Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Dawodu; Special Adviser in the Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs. Lawal Olanbiwoninu; and Permanent Secretary, Hospital Management Board, Dr. Olayinka Elemide, showcased Mrs. Abiodun’s impactful initiatives through her Ajose Foundation.

‎Commissioner Adeleye praised the First Lady, stating, “Your Excellency, your life transcends ceremonial titles, embodying quiet strength, dignity, and boundless compassion. Through the Ajose Foundation and your support for our Ministry, you have redefined advocacy as a daily act of touching lives, restoring hope, and building communities.”

‎ ‎Mrs. Abiodun’s efforts have focused on empowering women, educating girls, and championing child protection across Ogun State. The Commissioner highlighted the First Lady’s choice to celebrate with children at the Juvenile Correctional Centre as a reflection of her commitment to society’s most vulnerable. “Whether empowering women, educating the girl-child, or championing wellness, your impact is felt in real time, by real people,” Adeleye said, noting that her leadership has inspired tangible progress in the state.

‎ ‎In her response, Mrs. Abiodun expressed gratitude for the goodwill messages and reaffirmed her dedication to advocating for policies that amplify the voices of women and children. She emphasized her belief that a society’s strength lies in uplifting its most vulnerable members, a principle that guides her work through the Ajose Foundation.

‎ ‎Other dignitaries supported Adeleye’s sentiments, commending Mrs. Abiodun for prioritizing issues concerning women and children with special needs. They urged the children at the event to dream big, noting that the current administration under Governor Dapo Abiodun is committed to providing a safe environment for their growth.

Recent initiatives under Adeleye’s leadership, such as the Ogun State Women Empowerment Scheme (Okoowo Dapo), have trained and empowered 33,530 women in financial education, business, and life skills since 2022, further complementing Mrs. Abiodun’s advocacy.

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