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Nigeria’s First Lady Declares Malaria a National Emergency on World Malaria Day 2025

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By Prosper Mene 

On World Malaria Day 2025, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, issued a powerful call to action, describing malaria as a national emergency that demands and urgent and collective effort. In a statement released by her Media Aide, Busola Kukoyi, Mrs. Tinubu emphasized the devastating impact of the disease, which places Nigeria at the forefront of the global malaria burden.

“Today, on World Malaria Day 2025, we are reminded that malaria is not just a public health challenge for Nigeria; it is a national emergency,” Mrs. Tinubu said. “Nigeria bears the heaviest global burden of this disease. We must continue to work hard to reverse this trend.”

The theme for this year’s World Malaria Day, “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,” resonates as both a rallying cry and a message of hope. Mrs. Tinubu highlighted the need to renew investments in life-saving interventions, raise awareness, and foster a collective commitment to eradicate malaria. She urged government agencies, private sector stakeholders, NGOs, health workers, and community leaders to intensify their efforts.

Nigeria accounts for approximately 27% of global malaria cases, with an estimated 67 million cases in 2022, and 31% of global malaria deaths, particularly among children under five. The First Lady stressed the importance of maintaining clean environments and practicing personal hygiene to curb the spread of the disease, noting that stagnant water remains a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Mrs. Tinubu’s statement aligns with the National Malaria Strategic Plan (2021–2025), which aims to reduce malaria deaths to fewer than 50 per 1,000 live births and achieve a parasite prevalence of less than 10% by 2025. Despite progress in recent decades, challenges such as limited access to antimalarials, socio-cultural barriers, and disruptions from extreme weather and conflicts continue to hinder efforts.

The First Lady’s call to action intensifies the urgency of reigniting Nigeria’s fight against malaria. “Malaria ends with us, with our voices, our choices, and our actions,” she said, urging all Nigerians to unite in this critical battle for public health and national development.

 

 

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Ondo State Government Distributes 1,166 Professional Kits to Health Institutions, Boosting Healthcare Delivery

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By Prosper Mene 

The Ondo State Government has successfully distributed 1,166 professional kits, donated by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to 1,666 health institutions and training centers across the state’s 18 Local Government Areas. The initiative, part of the Renewed Hope Initiative Health Programme, aims to enhance the quality of healthcare delivery by equipping health professionals and students with essential tools.

The kits, comprising Crocs and scrubs, were distributed to a wide range of facilities, including the Federal Medical Centre in Owo, the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital, Specialist Hospitals in Akure and Ondo, Primary Healthcare Centres, and schools of nursing and midwifery. Private and public hospitals, as well as tertiary institutions offering Medicine and Nursing, also benefited from the distribution.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his Special Adviser on Health, Professor Simidele Odimayo, presided over the distribution event in Akure. He emphasized that the kits would motivate health workers and students, reaching approximately 75% of the state’s healthcare workforce. “By providing these kits, we are encouraging our health professionals to deliver better care to the people. We are grateful to Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her generous donation of 10,000 kits to the Southwest, of which Ondo State received 1,166,” Aiyedatiwa said.

The First Lady flagged off the distribution of the 10,000 kits for the Southwest region during a visit to Akure on April 17, 2025, at the International Event Centre, DOME, Alagbaka. The initiative has been widely praised for its potential to improve maternal and child healthcare and reduce infant mortality across the region.

Professor Odimayo hinted additional efforts by the Aiyedatiwa administration to strengthen the health sector, including the revitalization of over 102 healthcare facilities, provision of solar-powered lighting, water supply, and accommodation for health workers. The state has also bolstered the Ondo State Drug and Health Commodity Management Agency to ensure efficient drug distribution to all health facilities.

Health professionals and beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the initiative. “These kits will inspire us to serve with pride and dedication,” said a midwife at a Primary Healthcare Centre in Ondo. Social media reactions echoed this sentiment, with users like @AdetunjiAdewolu

commending the state government and Senator Tinubu for the thoughtful donation.

The Ondo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the Renewed Hope Initiative to ensure the success of such programs, which are expected to have a lasting impact on healthcare delivery in the state.

 

 

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FCT CDOWA Empowers Women Through Skills Acquisition and Training Program

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By Prosper Mene 

The Civil Defence Officers Wives Association (CDOWA), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command Chapter, launched a transformative skills acquisition and empowerment program on Friday, aimed at uplifting its members, widows of fallen heroes, and female officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), FCT Command. Held at the NSCDC FCT Command Headquarters in Abuja, the initiative themed “Transforming Lives and Empowering Women” focused on equipping participants with practical, income-generating skills to foster economic independence and social transformation.

Under the leadership of CDOWA FCT Chairperson, Mrs. Bolanle Olayinka Odumosu, the program marked a historic first for the FCT Command. Participants were trained in producing liquid soap, body creams, detergents, and disinfectants, such as Dettol. Beyond technical skills, the training included lectures on branding, packaging, market access, and funding opportunities to ensure participants could turn their skills into sustainable businesses. Each participant received a starter pack, including materials to produce up to 50 liters of liquid soap, with 20 widows and struggling female staff additionally empowered with chemical contents for the same quantity.

Mrs. Odumosu, speaking at the event, described the initiative as “a movement of empowerment, growth, and opportunities.” She emphasized the unique challenges faced by wives of NSCDC officers, whose spouses risk their lives for national security. “As wives of officers, we understand the sacrifices that come with this noble profession. This program is a testament to our commitment to empowering ourselves and our families, ensuring financial independence, especially for the wives of our fallen heroes,” she said.

Dr. Olusola Odumosu, Commandant of the NSCDC FCT Command, praised the program as a reflection of the Command’s vision for reform and rejuvenation. He highlighted its role in reducing hardship and creating pathways to sustainable livelihoods for participants. The initiative also garnered support from the National President of CDOWA, Hajia Aishat Audi, who was commended for her backing of the FCT Chapter’s efforts.

The program underscores CDOWA’s broader mission to support the families of NSCDC officers and honor the sacrifices of their spouses. By equipping women with marketable skills and resources, the FCT Chapter is paving the way for economic stability and community well-being. “This is just the beginning,” Mrs. Odumosu noted, signaling plans for future empowerment initiatives to further transform lives within the NSCDC community.

 

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Ondo State’s Farmer Registration Drive: A Game-Changer for Rural Women

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By Prosper Mene 

The Ondo State Government’s newly launched farmer registration initiative is poised to transform the lives of rural women farmers, who form the backbone of the state’s agricultural sector. By creating a comprehensive database to deliver targeted support, the program promises to address longstanding challenges faced by rural women, boosting their productivity and livelihoods while advancing food security.

Rural women in Ondo State, who often juggle farming with household responsibilities, stand to gain significantly from this initiative. The registration drive will ensure they are visible to policymakers, enabling direct access to critical resources such as improved seeds, fertilizers, modern farming tools, and credit facilities. “This is a lifeline for us,” said Temitope Adeyemi, a smallholder farmer in Idanre. “With proper support, we can grow more, earn more, and feed our families better.”

The initiative builds on recent successes, such as the March 2025 training of young female farmers in modern vegetable farming across all 18 local government areas. These women, now skilled agronomists, are already increasing yields in rural communities. The registration program will expand such opportunities, connecting rural women to technical expertise and mechanization, including tractor units planned for each senatorial district. This is particularly impactful for women who often rely on manual labor due to limited access to equipment.

Economically, the program could elevate rural women’s incomes by improving their access to markets and reducing post-harvest losses through better storage and processing facilities. Grace Oyediji, Ondo State Coordinator for the Smallholder Women Farmers Organisation of Nigeria (SWOFON), emphasized, “When rural women are empowered, entire communities thrive. This registration will help us secure land rights, inputs, and funding to scale our farms.”

Socially, the initiative promotes gender equity by recognizing rural women’s contributions to agriculture. By prioritizing their inclusion, the government is addressing systemic barriers like limited land access and exclusion from decision-making processes. This visibility could also inspire younger women in rural areas to pursue agriculture as a viable career.

However, challenges remain. Effective implementation requires robust outreach to remote areas, ensuring no woman is left behind. Continuous training and sustained funding will be crucial to maintain momentum. Oyediji urged the government to “keep rural women at the heart of this program” to maximize its impact.

As registration rolls out, rural women farmers are hopeful that this initiative will not only boost food production but also transform their communities, offering a path to financial independence and a stronger voice in Ondo’s agricultural future

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Federal Government Releases ₦50 Billion to Boost Education, Empower Women, and Support Households

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By Prosper Mene 

In a positive move to strengthen Nigeria’s education sector and uplift households, the Federal Government has released ₦50 billion to settle earned allowances for academic and non-academic staff unions of federal universities, fulfilling a promise by President Bola Tinubu. Announced by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, this intervention is poised to have far-reaching benefits, particularly for women and families across the nation.

The disbursement, described as a testament to the administration’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s education landscape, addresses long-standing demands from university unions, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). By ensuring timely payment of earned allowances, the government aims to sustain academic stability, reduce industrial disputes, and foster an environment where quality education thrives. This stability directly impacts households, many of which rely on the income of university staff, particularly women who form a significant portion of the non-academic workforce.

“This intervention is not just a financial transaction; it is a reaffirmation of our President’s belief in the capacity of Nigerian youth and the invaluable role that academic and non-academic staff play in nurturing them,” Dr. Alausa stated. He emphasized that prioritizing the welfare of university staff lays the foundation for a future where every Nigerian child, regardless of gender, receives a globally competitive education.

For women, who often balance professional and household responsibilities, the timely payment of earned allowances provides critical financial relief. Non-academic staff, including administrative workers, cleaners, and support personnel, include a substantial number of women whose earnings directly support their families. The injection of ₦50 billion into the sector ensures these women can better meet household needs, from education and healthcare to nutrition, thereby enhancing family resilience.

Moreover, the ripple effects extend to communities. Stable incomes for university workers mean increased economic activity in local markets, many of which are driven by women traders and entrepreneurs. The government’s commitment to uninterrupted academic sessions—currently one of the longest in recent history—also ensures that female students and their families benefit from consistent access to education, reducing disruptions that disproportionately affect girls’ academic progress.

“This is a step toward empowering women and households,” said Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press at the Federal Ministry of Education. “By securing the welfare of university staff, we are enabling families to thrive and ensuring that education remains a cornerstone of our nation’s development.”

The Minister expressed gratitude to the unions for their trust and cooperation, noting that the mutual understanding has fostered peace in federal institutions. “The youth are the heartbeat of our country. Keeping our children in school is not negotiable,” Dr. Alausa added, reaffirming the government’s resolve to make strikes a thing of the past.

This ₦50 billion investment reflects President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes education as a driver of economic empowerment and social equity.

 

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Tragic Explosion in Abakpa Claims Lives of Two Children, Women Bear Emotional Toll

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By Prosper Mene 

A devastating explosion shook the Abakpa community in Kaduna North Local Government Area on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, claiming the lives of two young children, Imam, 13, and Nasrin, 6, and leaving three others injured. The blast, which occurred along Josawa Road, has plunged the community into grief, with women—mothers, sisters, and caregivers—bearing the weight of profound emotional and social burdens in its aftermath.

The Kaduna State Police Command has clarified that the incident was not caused by a bomb, as initially feared, but by the accidental discharge of a locally made firearm, known as a Dane gun. The explosion occurred around 8:30 a.m., killing 12-year-old Abubakar Muhammed and injuring seven others, according to police spokesperson Mansir Hassan. A coordinated response involving the Divisional Police Officer of Kawo Division, the Department of State Services (DSS), and local government officials was swiftly deployed to assess the scene.

Women are grappling with the loss of young lives and the trauma of injured survivors. “Nasrin was like a daughter to all of us,” said Aisha Suleiman, a neighbor and mother of three. “Her mother is inconsolable, and we’re all trying to hold her up, but it’s hard when our hearts are breaking too.” Women in the community have taken on the role of providing emotional support, organizing communal prayers, and caring for the injured, even as they navigate their own grief.

The explosion’s proximity to the old site of the Nigerian Defence Academy has heightened fears among residents, particularly women, who worry about the safety of their children in an area already strained by economic hardship and security concerns. “We send our kids to play or run errands, but now we’re scared to let them out of sight,” said Fatima Usman, a local trader and single mother. “How do we protect them when things like this happen so close to home?”

Community leaders have called for increased safety measures and awareness campaigns about the dangers of locally made firearms, which are prevalent in the region. Women’s groups in Abakpa are also advocating for psychosocial support to help families cope with the trauma. “We need more than just investigations,” said Rahmatu Idris, a member of a local women’s cooperative. “Our community needs healing, and women are at the heart of that process. We’re the ones holding families together.”

The Kaduna State government has promised a thorough assessment, with visits from the Commissioner of Police, the Garrison Commander, and the Chairman of Kaduna North Local Government. Yet, for the women of Abakpa, the immediate challenge is finding strength amid sorrow.

 

 

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Kaduna Woman Seeks Divorce, Faces Husband’s Refusal to Accept Dowry Refund

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By Prosper Mene 

Zainab Sulaiman, a woman from Rigasa, Kaduna State, took a bold step in a Shari’a court to divorce her husband, Aliyu Sulaiman through Khul’i, an Islamic legal process allowing a woman to redeem herself from marriage by returning her dowry. However, Aliyu Sulaiman declined the dowry refund she offered, complicating her purs‏uit of divorce and showcasing the challenges women face in navigating marital disputes within traditional legal frameworks.

 

Zainab’s request for divorce reflects a growing trend of women in Kaduna asserting their rights under Islamic law, despite resistance from spouses or societal pressures. “I just want to move on with my life,” Zainab reportedly told the court, according to sources familiar with the proceedings. Her offer to return the dowry, a significant gesture in Khul’i proceedings, shows her determination to secure her freedom, even at personal cost.

Aliyu’s refusal to accept the dowry refund has stalled the process, leaving Zainab in limbo. This development raises questions about the power dynamics in such cases, where a husband’s consent can delay or derail a woman’s quest for autonomy. Women’s rights advocates in Kaduna argue that such situations highlight the need for greater legal support and awareness for women navigating Shari’a courts. “When a woman takes the step to seek Khul’i, it’s often after exhausting all other options,” said Fatima Mohammed, a local advocate for women’s rights. “Zainab’s case shows how much courage it takes to challenge the status quo.”

The Rigasa community, where the case is unfolding, has seen similar cases in recent years, with women increasingly using Khul’i to exit marriages. In September 2024, another woman, Zainab Musa, successfully dissolved her marriage at the same court by returning a N100,000 dowry, though only after overcoming reconciliation attempts. These cases reflect the resilience of women in the face of economic and social constraints, as many, like Zainab Sulaiman, bear the financial burden of repaying dowries while also managing household responsibilities.

The court has yet to announce its next steps, but Zainab’s situation has sparked discussions among women in Rigasa about their rights and the barriers they face. “It’s not just about the money,” said Amina Yusuf, a local trader and mother. “It’s about being heard and respected when you know the marriage isn’t working.” As the case progresses, Zainab Sulaiman’s stand serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and agency of women seeking to reclaim their futures in Kaduna’s Shari’a court

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Ghana’s Chief Justice Suspended: A Woman’s Leadership Under Scrutiny

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By Prosper Mene, April 22, 2025

Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama announced the immediate suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo, the country’s top judge, pending an investigation into allegations of misconduct. As the third woman to hold the prestigious position, Torkornoo’s suspension sparks a national conversation about the challenges and scrutiny faced by women in high-profile leadership roles within Ghana’s judiciary.

The decision follows three petitions calling for Torkornoo’s removal, citing allegations of tampering with court records and misuse of public funds, though specific details remain undisclosed. President Mahama, in consultation with the Council of State, determined a prima facie case exists, prompting the formation of a five-member investigative committee led by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang. Torkornoo, who has served as Chief Justice since June 2023, is the first sitting chief justice to face a formal investigation through a constitutional process, marking a historic moment for Ghana’s judiciary.

Appointed as the 15th Chief Justice and one of only three women to hold the role, Torkornoo, 61, has been a trailblazer, advocating for judicial reforms like court automation and commercial court oversight. Yet, her tenure has not been without controversy. A previous petition in December 2024, filed by law professor Stephen Kwaku Asare, accused her of misconduct and incompetence for bypassing the Judicial Council in recommending five appeal court judges for Supreme Court appointment.

Women’s rights advocates argue that Torkornoo’s case highlights the disproportionate scrutiny female leaders endure. “When a woman rises to such a position, every move is magnified,” said Abena Mensah, a gender equality activist in Accra. “Mistakes or allegations that might be overlooked in a man are weaponized against women like Torkornoo.” The Chief Justice herself addressed such pressures during a women’s leadership conference in November 2024, stating, “People talk, but I remain focused despite the chaos.”

The suspension has also raised concerns among women in the legal profession about the broader implications for gender equity in Ghana’s judiciary. With only three female Chief Justices in the country’s history—Georgina Theodora Wood, Sophia Akuffo, and now Torkornoo—the investigation could deter aspiring female judges. “It sends a message that women in power are vulnerable to being targeted,” said Esther Owusu, a lawyer and member of the Ghana Bar Association. “We need to ensure this process is fair and transparent, not a witch hunt.”

Torkornoo’s contributions, including her leadership in the E-Justice Committee and her role in the 2020 election petition, have been lauded, but the allegations now cast a shadow over her legacy. The investigative committee, which includes two Supreme Court justices and three non-legal members, is expected to probe the petitions thoroughly, with findings to determine whether Torkornoo will be reinstated or removed.

 

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Nigeria’s Outdated Abortion Laws Fuel Maternal Health Crisis, Deny Women Autonomy

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By Prosper Mene 

A silent crisis in Nigeria is claiming countless lives as outdated abortion laws push women toward unsafe procedures, increasing one of the world’s highest maternal mortality rates. With 10-20% of pregnancies ending in miscarriage and restrictive legislation rooted in colonial-era policies, women are denied autonomy over their reproductive health, forcing many into dangerous backstreet abortions that endanger their lives.

Nigeria’s laws, which permit abortion only to save a woman’s life, drive an estimated 20% of maternal deaths through unsafe procedures, according to health advocates. The World Health Organization reports that the country’s maternal mortality ratio stands at a staggering 814 deaths per 100,000 live births, among the highest globally. For many Nigerian women, the lack of legal access to safe abortions means resorting to unregulated clinics or traditional methods, often with devastating consequences.

“It’s a matter of bodily autonomy,” says Dr. Aisha Bello, a Lagos-based gynecologist and reproductive rights advocate. “Women are dying because the system prioritizes control over their bodies instead of their survival. These laws are upheld by lawmakers, mostly men, who ignore the realities women face.”

The statistics are grim: approximately 1 in 5 pregnancies in Nigeria ends in miscarriage, and unsafe abortions contribute significantly to the maternal death toll. Rural women, who often lack access to quality healthcare, are particularly vulnerable. In regions plagued by poverty and limited medical infrastructure, the risks of clandestine procedures are amplified, with complications like severe bleeding or infection claiming lives that could have been saved.

Advocacy groups are pushing for legislative reform to expand access to safe abortions, citing models like South Africa, where broader reproductive rights have reduced maternal mortality. But resistance remains fierce in Nigeria’s male-dominated political sphere, where bills addressing women’s health often stall. Activists argue that decriminalizing abortion could save thousands of lives annually while affirming women’s rights to make decisions about their bodies.

 

 

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Nigerian Woman Ejected from Church Over Attire, Igniting Fierce Modesty Debate

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By Prosper Mene

A viral video showing a Nigerian woman being sent away from a church for wearing a dress deemed immodest has sparked a heated nationwide debate about women’s treatment in religious spaces and societal expectations of female attire. The incident, in which the woman was criticized for showing cleavage, has divided opinions, with some defending the church’s stance on modesty and others condemning it as patriarchal overreach.

The footage, widely shared on social media platforms, captures the moment the woman was asked to leave the service, prompting outrage from viewers who argue that such actions reflect deeper gender biases in Nigeria’s religious institutions. “This is about control, not modesty,” one social media user posted. “Women are judged for their clothes while men face no such scrutiny.” Others, however, supported the church, citing the importance of adhering to religious dress codes. “Churches have rules. If you don’t follow them, don’t complain,” another user wrote.

The incident shows a a high tension in Nigeria, where conservative cultural and religious norms often dictate strict expectations for women’s appearance and behavior. In many churches, unwritten dress codes emphasize modesty, typically long skirts, covered shoulders, and no cleavage, placing disproportionate pressure on women to conform. Critics argue this focus distracts from spiritual inclusivity and reinforces gender inequality.

“This isn’t just about a dress; it’s about how women are policed in spaces meant for worship,” says Funmi Adebayo, a Lagos-based gender rights advocate. “Men rarely face this level of judgment, yet women are shamed or excluded for their choices. It’s a double standard rooted in patriarchy.”

The debate has also highlighted the role of social media in amplifying women’s voices. The woman in the video, whose identity remains undisclosed, has received both support and criticism online, with hashtags like #ChurchModesty and #Women’sRights trending in Nigeria. Some Social Media posts call for churches to prioritize compassion over rigid rules, while others defend religious institutions’ right to enforce standards.

This is not the first time Nigeria’s religious spaces have faced scrutiny over gender dynamics. Similar incidents, including women being barred for wearing trousers or uncovered hair, have fueled discussions about balancing tradition with personal freedom. Yet, change remains slow in a country where religious authority holds significant sway, and women often bear the brunt of moral policing.

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