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Dr. Omobolaji Fati Urges Corporations to Cultivate Inclusive Workplaces for Women’s Empowerment

by Women Times on

 

Dr. Omobolaji Fati, Executive Secretary of the Centre for Transformative Action and Empowerment Forum, has urged corporate organizations to take significant steps towards empowering women by fostering inclusive workplaces that enable them to realize their full potential.

Speaking at the Pan Atlantic University (PAU) Alumni’s celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, Dr. Fati highlighted the event’s theme, “Overcoming Barriers: Women, Resilience, Allies & Inclusive Leadership.” She emphasized the importance of creating environments that promote leadership development and allyship, ensuring that women have not only equal access to opportunities but also the support necessary for their success.

“Inclusive workplaces are essential, not just for fairness, but for the overall success and growth of organizations,” Dr. Fati noted. “When women are included in decision-making processes, they contribute diverse perspectives and innovative solutions to challenges.”

She pointed out that companies prioritizing diversity and inclusion tend to outperform their competitors and build stronger, more effective teams.

Dr. Fati also highlighted the vital roles of mentorship and allyship in advancing women’s careers. She stressed that both men and women share the responsibility to create environments where women can flourish. “Men in leadership must work to eliminate systemic barriers, provide mentorship, and ensure that women’s voices are amplified,” she stated.

“Inclusive leadership is a collaborative effort; everyone must partake in dismantling the obstacles that restrict women’s opportunities.”

Dr. Fati’s message is straightforward: to genuinely empower women, organizations must weave inclusivity into the fabric of their culture. By doing so, they can help women achieve their full potential, make significant contributions to their fields, and pave the way for future generations of female leaders.

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Nollywood Mourns the Loss of Veteran Actress Nkechi Nweje

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

The Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, is reeling from yet another devastating loss as veteran actress Nkechi Nweje passed away this morning, plunging fans and colleagues into deep sorrow.

The heartbreaking news has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community, with tributes pouring in for the beloved star known for her remarkable talent and warm presence.

Nkechi Nweje, a respected figure in Nollywood, reportedly succumbed to a brief illness, though details surrounding her death remain limited at this time. The announcement of her passing was met with an outpouring of grief from across the industry, as colleagues and admirers reflected on her impactful career and the indelible mark she left on Nigerian cinema.

Movie producer Stanley Ajemba, popularly known as Stanley Ontop, was among the first to confirm the tragic news. In an emotional statement shared on social media, he wrote, “Nollywood in tears as we lost one of our vibrant Nollywood actresses, @nkechi.nweje, after a brief illness. Couldn’t post since morning because it was like a dream to me. Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha, rest in peace ma’am, my best friend.” His words captured the profound shock and sadness felt by many who knew and worked with her.

Nkechi Nweje was celebrated for her compelling performances, particularly in motherly roles that resonated deeply with audiences. With a career spanning over a decade, she brought authenticity and heart to every character she portrayed, earning her a special place in the hearts of fans and a lasting legacy in Nollywood. Hailing from Onicha Ado in Anambra State, she embodied the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria through her work, inspiring countless young actors and actresses along the way.

Fellow Nollywood stars have joined in mourning her loss. Actress Rita Edochie shared a poignant tribute on Instagram, posting a candlelight image with the caption, “This world is really not our home.” Actor Asa Ikuku also paid his respects, writing, “Rest in peace mummy Nkechi Nweje TV (Nwanyi Onisha). You are indeed a blessing to us. But God knows the best. We will miss u so much great Nollywood actress. Rest on legend.”

The news of Nkechi Nweje’s passing comes at a time when Nollywood has faced a series of losses, further deepening the sense of grief within the industry. Just days ago, the community was still mourning other fallen stars, and Nweje’s death serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life.

As fans and loved ones bid farewell to this iconic actress, they hold onto the memories of her vibrant spirit and the stories she brought to life on screen. Nkechi Nweje leaves behind her husband, and a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

May her soul rest in peace.

 

 

 

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Political Crisis in Rivers State Sparks Fears for Women’s Safety Amid Emergency Declaration.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

A deepening political crisis in Rivers State, triggered by President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency earlier this week, has raised urgent concerns about the safety and well-being of women in the oil-rich region. The unrest, sparked by the vandalism of critical oil infrastructure, including a recent blast on the Trans-Niger Pipeline, has displaced families, disrupted livelihoods, and left women particularly vulnerable to the fallout.

On March 18, President Tinubu announced the emergency measures in a nationwide broadcast, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all state lawmakers for six months. Citing “disturbing incidents of pipeline vandalism” and a lack of action from the state government, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the military administrator to oversee Rivers State. The decision has intensified an already volatile political rift between Fubara’s administration and lawmakers loyal to his predecessor, further destabilizing the region.

While the emergency declaration aims to restore order, its ripple effects are being felt most acutely by women. “Conflict always hits women hardest,” said Ebiere Okonkwo, a Port Harcourt-based women’s rights advocate. “When families are uprooted and markets shut down, women bear the brunt—struggling to feed their children, facing increased violence, and losing what little economic stability they had.” Reports from local communities indicate that the heightened military presence and uncertainty have restricted movement, limiting access to essential services like healthcare and food supplies.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has sharply criticized the suspension of elected officials, calling it “unconstitutional” and a threat to democratic governance. “Section 305 of the Constitution does not grant the President the power to dissolve a democratically elected government under the guise of emergency rule,” said NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe in a statement. The opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) echoed these concerns, labeling the move a “state capture” attempt by Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC).

Amid the political firestorm, women’s groups in Rivers State are sounding the alarm. The Rivers Women’s Coalition, a grassroots organization, has called for immediate action to protect vulnerable populations. “We’re seeing a rise in displacement and insecurity,” said coalition spokesperson Mercy Alabo. “The government must prioritize safe shelters, emergency aid, and measures to prevent gender-based violence as this crisis unfolds.”

The economic stakes are high. The Trans-Niger Pipeline, a vital artery for Nigeria’s oil exports, generates millions of dollars daily, and its disruption has compounded the state’s woes. Local residents fear that the combination of political instability and economic losses will deepen poverty, with women—who often manage household finances—left to pick up the pieces.

Women’s advocates are urging both federal and state authorities to address the human cost of the crisis. “This isn’t just about politics or oil,” Okonkwo emphasized. “It’s about the lives of women and families hanging in the balance. We need stability—and we need it now.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs Rally for Economic Equity at Lagos Summit.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

 

Hundreds of Nigerian women entrepreneurs descended on Lagos today for the “Women in Business Summit,” demanding bold policy changes to secure greater economic inclusion in a nation where their potential remains largely untapped. Held at the Eko Convention Centre, the event brought together business owners, policymakers, and international advocates to address the stark disparities facing women-led enterprises.

Funke Adeyemi, founder of a fast-growing fintech startup, set the tone with a fiery opening speech. “We’re not asking for handouts—we’re demanding a level playing field,” she declared, citing data that women-owned businesses in Nigeria receive less than 15% of available venture capital despite driving significant job creation. Adeyemi pointed to the success of initiatives like “SheTrades Nigeria,” which has empowered over 5,000 women to break into export markets since its launch in 2023, as proof of what’s possible with proper support.

The summit’s urgency was amplified by recent commitments made at the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) earlier this month, where Nigeria pledged to advance gender equity. Yet attendees, including small-scale traders and tech innovators alike, voiced frustration over slow progress. “Access to loans, training, and markets shouldn’t be a privilege—it’s a right,” said Chidinma Okoro, a textile entrepreneur from Aba, echoing a common refrain.

Government representatives present, including the Minister of Women Affairs, promised to review proposals for tax incentives and microfinance schemes tailored for women. International delegates from the World Bank and UN Women also pledged technical support, spotlighting Nigeria as a key player in the global push for women’s economic empowerment.

As the day unfolded, the summit trended online under #WomenMeanBusiness, with participants vowing to hold leaders accountable.

 

 

 

 

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Afghan Women’s Defiance Ignites Solidarity Protests in Nigeria.

by Women Times on

 

 

 

 

By Mene Prosper

In cities like Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt, hundreds gathered in peaceful marches, their voices amplified by the hashtag #WomenResist trending across social media. “What we’re seeing in Afghanistan is a mirror to our struggles here,” said Zainab Mohammed, a prominent activist in Kano, addressing a crowd outside the city’s central market. “When they stand up, we stand with them—because silence is not an option.”

The protests, unfolding at 9:49 PM WAT, linked the Afghan women’s courage to Nigeria’s persistent challenges, where recent surveys show one in three women still faces domestic violence.

 

The spark came from fresh accounts out of Afghanistan, where women have risked severe punishment to defy Taliban edicts, a story dominating global news cycles today. In Nigeria, organizers tied this resistance to local demands for stronger laws against gender-based violence and greater cultural freedoms, with placards reading “From Kabul to Kano: Women Rise.” The marches drew a diverse crowd—students, professionals, and traders—united in a rare cross-continental show of unity.

International human rights groups praised the Nigerian response, with UN Women noting on social media that such solidarity “lights a path toward global change.” Yet the protests also faced pushback, with some local voices questioning the focus on foreign struggles amid Nigeria’s own crises.

 

 

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Struggling to Survive: The Plight of the Average Nigerian Woman Amid Economic Hardship”

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

As Nigeria grapples with persistent economic challenges, the average woman finds herself bearing a heavy burden in an environment marked by soaring inflation, stagnant wages, and limited opportunities. With the nation’s inflation rate climbing to an estimated 31.6% in 2024 and projected to moderate only slightly to 20.7% in 2025, according to the African Development Bank, the cost of living has spiralled beyond the reach of many households. For women, who often manage family finances and shoulder caregiving responsibilities, this economic strain is particularly acute.

The typical Nigerian woman, whether a trader in Abuja’s bustling markets, a hairdresser in Lagos, or a farmer in the rural north or south, faces daily struggles to make ends meet. Take Amina, a 34-year-old mother of three in Kano, who spoke of her reality: “Food prices have doubled, but my income hasn’t moved. I sell vegetables, but after paying for transport and rent, there’s barely enough for one meal a day.” Her story exposes a broader trend, with the World Bank estimating that 38.9% of Nigerians lived below the poverty line in 2023—a figure likely worsened by recent economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and naira devaluation.

Women’s economic participation, while resilient, remains constrained.

The social fallout is stark. UN Women data indicates that 13.2% of women aged 15-49 experienced physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner in 2018, a figure experts suggest may rise as economic pressures fuel household tensions. Moreover, with only 35.6% of women’s family planning needs met with modern methods as of 2018, reproductive health remains a distant priority for many amidst financial strain. For rural women, the situation is bleaker still, as agriculture, a key employer, grows slowly, leaving them disconnected from urban-centric service sector gains.

Government reforms under President Bola Tinubu, including efforts to boost oil production and stabilise the naira, promise long-term growth, with GDP projected to rise to 3.4% in 2025. However, analysts warn that these benefits may take years to trickle down. For now, the average woman relies on grit and ingenuity—selling wares, bartering goods, or joining savings groups—to survive. “We don’t wait for help,” said Blessing, a 29-year-old tailor in Port Harcourt. “If I stop, my children don’t eat.”

Calls for targeted support are growing. Advocates argue that affordable loans, improved market access, and investment in rural infrastructure could ease the burden on women, who constitute half of Nigeria’s 230 million population.

 

 

 

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Controversy Surrounds NYSC Corps Member Raye Over Criticism of Scheme and Government.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

 

A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, identified as Raye, has found herself at the centre of a growing controversy after publicly criticising the NYSC and the Nigerian government. In a widely circulated video, the young woman, dressed in her official khaki uniform, expressed frustration over what she described as unfulfilled promises to corps members and broader issues of poor governance. Her candid remarks have ignited a fierce debate across the nation.

Rather than receiving widespread praise for her courage, Raye has faced significant backlash from some quarters.

Critics argue that her comments violate NYSC regulations, though a closer examination of the scheme’s bylaws reveals no explicit rule prohibiting such statements. The response from the public has been sharply divided, with some labelling her actions disrespectful, while others laud her as a voice for a disenchanted generation.

Adding weight to the discourse, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has publicly commended Raye, describing her as a “shining star” among Nigerian youth. In a statement, he likened her boldness to that of historical figures such as Gambo Sawaba and Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, celebrated activists known for their fearless advocacy. Atiku urged authorities to nurture rather than suppress such outspokenness, framing it as a sign of leadership potential.

Reports suggest that NYSC officials have taken disciplinary action, with allegations that Raye was summoned to a panel in Eti-Osa, Lagos, to answer for her statements. However, questions remain about the legal basis for any sanctions, as some observers, including an X user named Ebenezar, have pointed out the absence of a clear breach of protocol in the NYSC guidelines.

The situation has sparked a broader conversation about freedom of expression within the NYSC and the plight of Nigerian youth. Supporters have rallied under calls to “Free Raye,” arguing that her critique reflects widespread discontent, while detractors insist she overstepped the bounds of decorum expected from a corps member. As the controversy unfolds, Raye remains resolute, her stance unwavering amid the mounting pressure.

With Atiku’s endorsement amplifying her cause, the incident raises critical questions: Will the NYSC succeed in silencing this dissenting voice, or could Raye’s defiance mark the beginning of a larger movement among Nigeria’s youth? For now, the nation watches closely as this unfolding drama tests the boundaries of authority and individual conviction.

 

 

 

 

 

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Senator Natasha vs. Akpabio: Scandal Deepens as Probes and Protests Escalate.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

 

 

The political firestorm between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio shows no signs of coming to an end as of March 17, 2025, with fresh developments intensifying Nigeria’s most gripping legislative controversy of the year. What began as an allegation of sexual harassment has spiraled into a saga of suspensions, legal battles, and now security agency involvement, spotlighting issues of power, gender, and justice in Nigeria’s Senate.

Latest Developments: On March 11, 2025, Senator Natasha, the first female senator from Kogi Central, addressed the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) at a United Nations forum in New York, alleging her six-month suspension from the Senate—effective March 6—was retaliation for rejecting Akpabio’s alleged sexual advances. She claimed the Senate President propositioned her, tying legislative favors to personal demands, a charge Akpabio vehemently denies. The Senate insists her suspension stemmed from “gross misconduct” over a seating dispute, not her harassment claims, which were dismissed on procedural grounds.

This week, the plot thickened as reports emerged that the Department of State Services (DSS) and National Intelligence Agency (NIA) are probing Natasha’s unauthorized trip to the IPU meeting.

 

The move has fueled accusations from her supporters that the government is using state machinery to intimidate her, with protests erupting in Abuja and Lagos under hashtags like #WeAreAllNatasha.

Legal and Public Backlash: Natasha has escalated her fight, filing a contempt suit against Akpabio and Senate officials on March 13 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, challenging her suspension as unlawful. The court had previously, on March 4, restrained the Senate from disciplining her pending a hearing, now set for March 20, 2025. Meanwhile, Akpabio’s camp asserts the IPU lacks jurisdiction over Senate affairs, with his aide, Eseme Eyiboh, dismissing calls for him to testify internationally.

Public reaction remains polarized. Women’s rights groups and civil society organizations, including a coalition from Edo State, have rallied behind Natasha, condemning what they call a “misogynistic” silencing of a rare female voice in the 109-seat Senate, where women hold just four seats. Critics, however, including political analyst Omotayo Yusuf, question her evidence, urging her to substantiate claims that have gripped national discourse since her February 28 Arise TV interview.

The Bigger Picture: The scandal has reignited debates about gender-based violence in Nigerian politics. Natasha’s suspension leaves the Senate with only three female lawmakers, amplifying calls for reform. Her allegations echo past tensions with Akpabio, who apologized in July 2024 for a “nightclub” remark aimed at her, suggesting a pattern of friction. Political economist Pat Utomi has accused Akpabio of worse conduct than Natasha’s alleged breaches, pointing to a double standard.

What’s Next?: As the DSS probe unfolds and the court date clock ticks, Nigeria watches a high-stakes showdown. Will Natasha’s evidence—if presented—vindicate her, or will Akpabio’s defense hold sway? For now, the scandal remains a lightning rod, exposing fault lines in power and privilege.

 

 

 

 

 

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Waste to Wealth: GTCO Plc Launches Gas Project to Empower Women in Ogun State

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

In a bold move to tackle environmental pollution and uplift underserved communities, GTCO Plc, a leading Nigerian conglomerate, launched an ambitious waste-for-gas project on Saturday, distributing 3,000 gas cylinders to women in Ogun State. The initiative, unveiled in Abeokuta, blends sustainability with economic empowerment, offering a lifeline to women in low-income areas while addressing Nigeria’s waste management challenges.

The project, spearheaded by GTCO’s sustainability arm, transforms household and market waste into clean-burning gas, which is then packaged into cylinders for domestic use. At the launch event, attended by local leaders, environmentalists, and beneficiaries, GTCO officials handed out the first batch of 3,000 cylinders to women from underserved communities, many of whom rely on firewood or kerosene for cooking—a practice linked to health risks and deforestation.

“We’re turning waste into opportunity,” said Segun Agbaje, GTCO’s Group Chief Executive Officer, in a keynote address. “This project not only reduces environmental harm but also empowers women economically by giving them access to cleaner, safer energy. It’s a win for the planet and the people.”

The initiative targets women as primary beneficiaries, recognizing their central role in household energy use and their vulnerability to the health impacts of traditional cooking methods. According to the Nigerian Ministry of Environment, indoor air pollution from biomass fuels claims thousands of lives annually, disproportionately affecting women and children. By providing gas cylinders, GTCO aims to curb these risks while fostering financial independence—some recipients will reportedly sell surplus gas in their communities.

One beneficiary, 42-year-old trader Idayat Adebayo from Ijebu-Ode, beamed with excitement as she received her cylinder. “This will save me money and time,” she said. “No more smoke in my lungs or searching for firewood. I can even make a small business out of it.”

The waste-for-gas model also tackles Ogun State’s mounting waste problem. With urban centers like Abeokuta generating tons of refuse daily, GTCO’s processing plants convert organic waste into biogas, reducing landfill pressure and greenhouse gas emissions. Environmental experts at the event praised the dual impact, though some called for more data on the project’s scalability.

“This is innovative, but we need to know how many plants are operational and how much waste they can handle,” noted Dr. Funmi Adeyemi, an environmental scientist based in Lagos. “If it scales, it could be a game-changer for Nigeria.”

GTCO has not disclosed the project’s full cost or the timeline for future phases, but company representatives hinted at plans to expand nationwide.

Local leaders in Ogun State welcomed the initiative, with the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Motunrayo Adeleye, describing it as “a step toward sustainable development that prioritizes our women.” She added, “We’re eager to partner with GTCO to ensure this reaches every corner of the state.”

For the women of Ogun State, the cylinders represent more than just fuel—they’re a symbol of progress. As the launch concluded, the hum of celebration filled the air, coupled with the promise of cleaner kitchens and brighter futures.

 

 

 

 

 

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