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Patience Jonathan Earns PHD, shares her Journey

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By Prosper Mene 

Former Nigerian First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, has shared an inspiring account of her a journey to earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology, Guidance and Counselling from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, revealing that intense pressure from lecturers nearly led her to abandon the pursuit. Speaking during a testimony and thanksgiving service at Streams of Joy International Church, led by Pastor Jerry Eze, Jonathan recounted how the academic demands and high expectations from her lecturers tested her resolve.

Jonathan, wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan, described the three-year program as feeling like “forty years” due to the challenges she faced, including repeated assignments and moments of frustration. “At times, my lecturer would get me angry and say, ‘Go and repeat this page,’” she shared, adding that she questioned the need for a PhD after her tenure as First Lady. “I said, I have finished my career. What am I going to do with a PhD? But God told me, ‘If your children can make it, why can’t you?’”

Despite being the oldest student in her class, Jonathan embraced the humility of learning alongside younger peers, asking questions repeatedly to grasp concepts. “I was the ‘Mama’ among them, and I wasn’t ashamed,” she said, reflecting on her perseverance. She credited divine guidance, family support, particularly from her husband, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, and spiritual encouragement from Pastor Jerry Eze for her success.

During the university’s 43rd Postgraduate Convocation Ceremony, Jonathan dedicated her achievement to Nigerian women and youths, emphasizing that age should never be a barrier to education. “I feel that no age is too late to achieve your academic dreams, whether you are young or old. If I can do it, you can also do it,” she stated, urging Nigerians to embrace lifelong learning. She also called for national unity, saying, “Nigeria belongs to all of us. We will work together to make Nigeria great.”

Her story has resonated widely, with social media posts praising her determination. One user noted, “If Patience can do it, what’s stopping you?” Her testimony serves as a powerful encouragement for women and youths to pursue education fearlessly, regardless of circumstance.

 

 

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Maryam Abacha Denies Claims of Late Husband Stashing Public Funds Abroad

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By Prosper Mene 

Maryam Abacha, widow of former Nigerian military Head of State General Sani Abacha, has publicly dismissed longstanding allegations that her late husband looted billions of dollars from Nigeria’s public funds and stashed them in foreign accounts. In a recent statement, Mrs. Abacha challenged accusers to provide concrete evidence of the alleged financial misconduct, emphasizing that no definitive proof has been presented to substantiate the claims.

“Who is the witness of the monies that were being stashed? Did you see the signature or the evidence of any monies stashed abroad?” Mrs. Abacha questioned during a public address. She further claimed that funds her husband had reportedly secured for Nigeria mysteriously “vanished” shortly after his death in 1998, suggesting that subsequent administrations may have mismanaged or misappropriated these resources. “The monies that my husband kept for Nigeria, in a few months, the monies vanished. People are not talking about that,” she stated.

Mrs. Abacha expressed frustration with the media and public perception, accusing journalists of spreading unverified narratives and urging them to “educate the people” rather than “bastardise people.” She also criticized Nigerians for readily accepting allegations without scrutiny, stating, “And because Nigerians are fools, they listen to everything.”

However, her claims have garnered mixed reactions. Some sources, including international reports, contradict her assertions, pointing to legal actions and bank records that confirm over $3.6 billion was recovered from foreign accounts linked to General Abacha by countries such as the United States, Switzerland, and Jersey. These recoveries have been cited as evidence of corruption during his regime from 1993 to 1998.

Beyond addressing the financial allegations, Mrs. Abacha called for unity and respect among Nigerians, emphasizing that no single individual, including her husband, former military leader Ibrahim Babangida, or businessman Moshood Abiola, is solely responsible for Nigeria’s challenges or successes. “Nobody is big enough for Nigeria,” she said.

The controversy surrounding General Abacha’s alleged looting of public funds has been a longstanding case and it remains a polarizing topic in Nigeria, with Mrs. Abacha’s recent statements reigniting debates about transparency, accountability, and the legacy of her husband’s administration.

 

 

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Africa’s Voice Shines at International Sexuality Conference: Dr. Tolulope Oko-Igaire Advocates for Recognition of African Perspectives

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The recent AASECT Annual Conference in Las Vegas, themed “Artistry x Science: Discovering and Enhancing the Application of Sexology & Sexual Wellness,” marked a significant milestone where African voices took center stage. Among the distinguished speakers was Dr. Tolulope Oko-Igaire, Executive Director of the Institute of Counseling Nigeria (ICN) and Founder of the Intimacy Clinic, who passionately highlighted the wealth of knowledge Africa possesses in sex and sexuality education.

During her speech, Dr. Oko-Igaire emphasized, “Africa has a lot to offer when it comes to sex and sexuality education, but we lack an enabling environment where people can openly express themselves. That’s the work we are doing at the ICN and Intimacy Clinic to create safe spaces for open dialogue.” She added, “Some of the practices we have are not well known in the West, but they are very effective. If people are able to express themselves without shame, I believe the West has much to learn from Africa.”

Her remarks underscore a vital message: Africa’s rich cultural and traditional knowledge in sexuality can provide innovative solutions globally, provided that the environment encourages open conversation and acceptance.

In her speech, Dr. Oko-Igaire shared her emotional experience of representing Africa on an international platform for the first time. She also emphasized the significance of the event: “It wasn’t just about visibility; it was about validity. African voices in sex therapy are not only relevant but revolutionary.” Her words inspired many, highlighting her role as a pioneer and advocate for African excellence in the field.

Dr. Oko-Igaire is renowned as one of Africa’s leading sex therapists and mental health practitioners. She has played a pivotal role in transforming perceptions of mental health and sexuality across Nigeria and Africa. Her work covers depression treatment, PTSD counseling, human sexuality, dysfunctional behavioral therapy, and family dynamics.

“I started in an environment where professional counseling was virtually nonexistent, and discussing mental and sexual health issues was taboo,” she explained. “I singlehandedly elevated mental health counseling and psychotherapy from traditional, backward approaches to a professional, ethical practice.”

Her academic credentials include a Master’s degree from the University of Port Harcourt, advanced training from the International Institute of Counseling in the UK, and ongoing Ph.D. studies in Counseling Psychology and Sexology. She has received numerous awards and honors, including an honorary doctorate from The Development Institute of Counseling in the United States.

As the immediate past President of the Association for Counseling & Psychotherapy of Nigeria (ACMPN), and now the President and Chief Executive Officer of The Chartered Institute of Counseling in Nigeria, Dr. Oko-Igaire continues to advocate for increased awareness, education, and support for mental health and sexuality issues. She believes Africa has a vital role in shaping global conversations around sex and mental health.

“The world is listening. And Africa is no longer whispering. We’re speaking, teaching, and healing loudly and clearly,” she declared. Her leadership exemplifies the potential of African professionals to influence global discourse positively.

A dedicated clinical counselor, sex therapist, and mental health advocate, Dr. Oko-Igaire remains committed to advancing counseling and sexuality education in Africa. Her work continues to inspire a new generation of therapists, educators, and advocates across the continent.

 

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Lagos, SOGON Strengthen Partnership to Combat Maternal and Neonatal Deaths

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By Prosper Mene 

The Lagos State Ministry of Health has announced a renewed collaboration with the Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON), Lagos Sector, aimed at tackling the persistent challenge of maternal and neonatal mortality in the state. This partnership seeks to address preventable causes of death during pregnancy and childbirth, reinforcing Lagos’ commitment to improving reproductive healthcare.

During a recent visit by a SOGON delegation, led by former National President Prof. Rotimi Akinola and Lagos Sector Chairman Prof. Abidoye Gbadegesin, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, praised SOGON’s voluntary efforts to support maternal and reproductive health. The delegation emphasized the need for legislative backing and the revival of a volunteer obstetrician scheme to bolster healthcare delivery. Prof. Akinola highlighted the significant impact of unsafe abortions on maternal mortality, urging policies that allow healthcare providers to act safely and responsibly to save lives.

The partnership will focus on institutionalizing the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) system to enhance maternal health surveillance and accountability. This initiative aims to address critical issues such as severe bleeding, infections, high blood pressure during pregnancy, and unsafe abortions, which remain leading causes of maternal deaths in Nigeria.

Nigeria accounts for nearly 30% of global maternal deaths, with approximately 75,000 women dying annually during childbirth, according to UN estimates for 2023. Lagos, as a major hub, is prioritizing innovative and community-centered interventions to reduce these numbers. The state’s collaboration with SOGON is seen as a vital step toward achieving this goal, with both parties committed to improving access to quality maternal care and strengthening healthcare infrastructure.

Prof. Abayomi reaffirmed the state’s readiness to deepen this partnership, stating, “This is about saving lives, not debating morals. Maternal death from preventable causes is unacceptable.” The Lagos State government and SOGON are calling for increased policy support and resources to ensure sustainable progress in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality across the state.

 

 

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Nollywood Actress Bolaji Ogunmola Survives Car Accident and Ceiling Collapse in May

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By Prosper Mene

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Bolaji Ogunmola is expresses gratitude after narrowly escaping death in two terrifying incidents last month. The dynamic star, known for her roles in films like Hotel Labamba, shared her harrowing experiences on Instagram, revealing she survived both a car accident and a POP ceiling collapse in her home.
In a heartfelt “May Dump” collage posted on her Instagram, Ogunmola recounted the shocking events, describing how she “cheated death twice.” The first incident involved a car accident, details of which remain limited, but left the actress shaken yet unharmed. The second occurred while filming upstairs in her home when a small crack in the ceiling was noticed. Moments later, the POP ceiling in her living room violently collapsed, scattering debris across the space. “We were actually filming upstairs, and my PM was trying to do a video for me to see a small crack on the ceiling… everything came down,” Ogunmola wrote in response to a fan, sharing a video of the aftermath.
The actress, c
Known for her transparency and humor, took a lighthearted approach in addressing the incidents, jokingly telling fans, “Don’t just say sorry, ask for my account number or get me a new car.” Despite the playful tone, her gratitude for surviving both ordeals was evident, inspiring fans and followers who flooded her posts with messages of support.
Ogunmola is grateful and thankful she is alive today.

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Nigerian Grandmother Sacked from London University Job Over Misplaced Bracelet

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By Prosper Mene 

Janet Olufunke Damiro, a 71-year-old Nigerian grandmother, is battling to restore her reputation after being dismissed from her cleaning job at the London School of Economics (LSE) over allegations of stealing a bracelet. Damiro, who worked at the university for 13 years, was sacked in late April 2025 for “gross misconduct” following an incident involving a misplaced bracelet at the Saw Swee Hock Student Centre.

Damiro, who immigrated to the UK in 1971, told Metro UK she found the gold bracelet during her shift and placed it in her purse for safekeeping, intending to report it but forgetting to do so. Three days later, university management questioned her about the lost item. She immediately returned the bracelet and apologized profusely. Despite her cooperation, she was suspended and subsequently terminated, a decision that has sparked outrage among her colleagues and union members.

“I was devastated. I’ve worked hard for 13 years, six days a week, and this is how it ends,” Damiro said, emphasizing her innocence. Over 70 coworkers and union representatives have rallied in her support, condemning the university’s handling of the situation as unfair and overly harsh.

The dismissal has drawn significant attention on social media, with posts on expressing anger and disbelief at the treatment of the elderly cleaner. Many have called for a review of the decision, citing Damiro’s long service and the lack of evidence of malicious intent.

The London School of Economics has not publicly commented on the case, but the incident raises questions about workplace policies on lost items and the treatment of long-serving staff. Damiro remains determined to clear her name, supported by her community as she scales through the aftermath of this ordeal

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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Disowns Viral Audio, Alleges Malicious Voice Cloning Plot

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By Prosper Mene 

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central in the National Assembly, has publicly disassociated herself from a viral audio recording circulating on social media, labeling it a fabrication aimed at tarnishing her reputation. In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, June 4, 2025, the senator condemned the audio as “entirely fabricated” and denounced the use of advanced voice cloning technology to misrepresent her views and sow discord.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan categorically denied granting any such interview or engaging in the conversations depicted, asserting, “The voice is not mine, it has clearly been cloned with malicious intent.” She described the incident as an “orchestrated attempt to manipulate public perception and silence legitimate voices in our democracy.”

In her statement, the senator urged Nigerians to disregard the audio and remain vigilant against the rising threat of AI-driven disinformation and cyber impersonation. She emphasized the broader implications of such tactics, warning that they pose a significant risk to public safety and democratic integrity.

This incident comes in a time of growing global concerns about the misuse of artificial intelligence in cybercrimes. Recent reports from the FBI and other cybersecurity agencies have highlighted a surge in voice cloning scams targeting public figures and private individuals alike, often for financial gain or to spread disinformation. The senator’s case shows the urgent need for stronger safeguards against non-consensual voice replication and other forms of digital manipulation.

 

 

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Benue Women Lament as Herders’ Attacks Create ‘Community of Widows’

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By Prosper Mene 

Women in Benue State are raising the alarm over a growing problem, as constant attacks by suspected armed herders have left communities shattered, with many women widowed and families displaced. The latest wave of violence, reported on June 2, 2025, claimed at least 43 lives in Gwer West and Apa Local Government Areas, adding to the number of deaths and destruction in the region.

According to local accounts, the herders’ invasions have not only claimed lives but also destroyed farmlands, livelihoods, and entire communities. Women, now bearing the burden of raising families alone, describe their villages as “communities of widows,” with husbands, brothers, and sons killed in the ongoing violence. “We are left to fend for ourselves, with no protection and no justice,” one woman from Gwer West told reporters, heavy with grief.

The attacks have become a recurring pattern in Benue, a state long plagued by clashes between farmers and herders. In February 2024, armed herders reportedly killed 16 farmers in a single community, only to return days later to slaughter more. Despite calls for security intervention, locals say the government’s response has been inadequate, leaving them vulnerable to further attacks. “We have only one option: defend ourselves or get extinct,” one resident posted on Social media, citing a growing sentiment of desperation and helplessness.

Benue farmers have appealed for urgent government and security action to stop the invasions and protect their lands. Women’s groups are also demanding support for the widows, who face mounting economic and emotional hardship. The people of Benue wait for solutions, fearful that without decisive action, their communities may never recover.

 

 

 

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Nigeria Vaccinates 12 Million Girls Against Cervical Cancer in 9 Months – First Lady

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By Prosper Mene 

Nigeria has achieved a significant milestone in its fight against cervical cancer, with over 12 million girls aged 9 to 13 vaccinated against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in just nine months, according to First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu. This remarkable progress is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030, aligning with the World Health Organization’s 90-70-90 targets.

Speaking at the launch of the Partnership to Eliminate Cervical Cancer in Nigeria (PECCIN) on June 3, 2025, Senator Tinubu emphasized that cervical cancer is preventable and treatable when detected early. “No woman has to die from cervical cancer when it is preventable,” she stated, highlighting the critical role of the HPV vaccine, which has been available free of charge for girls aged 9 to 14 since October 2024.

The PECCIN initiative, led by the National Task Force on Cervical Cancer Elimination (NTF-CCE), aims to vaccinate 90% of eligible girls, screen 70% of women for precancerous lesions, and ensure 90% of those diagnosed receive timely treatment. The First Lady’s advocacy, backed by her Renewed Hope Initiative, has been instrumental in driving the program’s success, with a N1 billion donation to the National Cancer Fund earlier this year.

Dr. Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, praised Senator Tinubu’s leadership, noting that her support has enabled the vaccination of 12 million girls since the HPV vaccine was integrated into Nigeria’s routine immunization program. The government’s “Double 8 Agenda” targets vaccinating and screening 8 million girls and women annually, a goal experts believe is achievable with sustained efforts.

Prof. Isaac Adewole, Chairman of the NTF-CCE, expressed optimism about meeting the 2030 elimination target, crediting the First Lady’s “uncommon political will” for galvanizing the campaign. The initiative plans to expand its reach to 12 states this year and another 12 in 2026.

Cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer among women in Nigeria, but with early detection, vaccination, and treatment, the country is on track to significantly reduce its burden. Senator Tinubu urged women to seek medical help without fear or stigma, reinforcing that “every child and woman has a right to live.”

The PECCIN campaign, supported by partners like GAVI, the Gates Foundation, WHO, and UNICEF, marks a hopeful step toward a healthier future for Nigerian women and girls.

 

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Female Pilgrim from Plateau State Passes Away During Hajj in Makkah

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By Prosper Mene

A female pilgrim from Plateau State, Nigeria, Hajiya Jamila Muhammad, has tragically passed away in Makkah during the ongoing 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. The news was confirmed by Mr. Daiyabu Dauda, the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, in a statement issued on Tuesday in Jos.

Hajiya Jamila Muhammad died on Monday, June 2, 2025, at King Abdul’aziz Hospital in Makkah due to complications from diabetes, according to medical personnel. “From God we are, and to Him we shall return. With heavy hearts and total submission to the will of Allah, Plateau State has lost one of her female pilgrims,” Dauda said in the statement. He noted that upon reports of her deteriorating condition, the medical team was promptly directed to attend to her, following instructions from Governor Caleb Mutfwang to prioritize the health and well-being of all Plateau pilgrims. Despite these efforts, she succumbed to her illness.

The late Hajiya Jamila had performed her Umrah on Sunday, shortly after arriving in Makkah from Madina. Her funeral prayer was held at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, attended by officials of the pilgrimage board and her relatives.

This marks the second reported death among Nigerian pilgrims during the 2025 Hajj, bringing the total to three, with earlier losses reported from Edo and Abia states. The Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board expressed deep condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased, describing her passing as a profound loss.

The 2025 Hajj, which began on June 4, continues to see millions of Muslims from around the world gather in Saudi Arabia for the annual pilgrimage, a key pillar of Islam.

 

 

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