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AXA Mansard Excites Customers with Partner for Life Campaign on Valentine’s Day

by Women Times on

AXA Mansard, Nigeria’s leading insurance company and a member of the global insurance giant AXA, has made a significant impact with its Partner for Life campaign this Valentine’s Day. Featuring the beloved Nigerian actor Adedimeji Lateef, the initiative aimed to demonstrate that true love goes beyond grand gestures and is reflected in meaningful actions.

Rather than focusing on typical Valentine’s gifts, AXA Nigeria’s campaign prioritized reaching out to the beneficiaries of their late customers’ life insurance policies, reminding them that they are not alone during their challenging times. This thoughtful gesture underscores AXA’s commitment to being more than just a claims payer; they are a true partner for life, supporting their customers through both good and difficult moments.

The campaign commenced with visits to women who had recently lost their husbands. These grieving widows received heartfelt gifts and personal messages from AXA Mansard’s Chief Executive Officer, Kunle Ahmed, reinforcing the message: “We are your partner for life.” This act of kindness provided comfort and support during a painful period, showcasing AXA’s dedication to caring for not just the policyholders, but also their loved ones.

Next, AXA celebrated joyful moments by visiting new mothers who had recently welcomed twins. These mothers were pleasantly surprised with gifts and personal letters emphasizing AXA’s enduring promise of partnership. Many expressed gratitude for the seamless and reassuring experience provided by AXA’s health insurance services, which made their journey into motherhood a little easier.

Adedimeji Lateef’s presence added a special touch to these visits, infusing the events with warmth and excitement. His involvement transformed thoughtful gestures into unforgettable experiences, as his smiles and joy resonated with the recipients, highlighting the campaign’s success in creating cherished moments.

AXA Nigeria’s Chief Marketing Officer encapsulated the essence of the campaign: “At AXA Nigeria, we understand that life is a mix of ups and downs. We want to be there for our customers through all of it. From the first day they choose to partner with us to every moment that follows, we are committed to being their ‘Partner for Life.’ This Valentine’s Day, through acts of kindness, love, and support, we reinforced this promise. We are here for all the moments; we are here through the tough times, providing comfort, stability, and the reassurance that, no matter what, they are not alone.”

As AXA Nigeria continues its journey, its focus remains on creating experiences that resonate with the hearts of its customers. Through thoughtful gestures and reliable services, AXA’s commitment to being a true partner for life is unwavering. This Valentine’s Day, the company demonstrated its dedication to supporting its customers in a meaningful way, and it will continue to do so.

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Celebrating A Decade of Progress: Women and Girls in Science Celebrated  on International Day

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By Prosper Mene

The 10th International Day of Women and Girls in Science was celebrated globally, emphasizing the importance of empowering and recognizing women’s contributions in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

This year’s theme, “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science,” calls for amplifying The 10th International Day of Women and Girls in Science was celebrated globally, emphasizing the importance of empowering and recognizing women’s contributions in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).women’s roles in these fields. UNESCO, alongside Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC), launched the campaign “Imagine a World with More Women in Science,” which underscores the transformative potential of gender equality in scientific pursuits.

 

Global Celebrations Include:

– **Namibia:** The day commenced with ten young Namibian girls showcasing their tech innovations in Windhoek, symbolizing the promising future of women in STEM.

– **Canada:** Unity Health Toronto initiated a series of advice columns written by esteemed female scientists, aimed at inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.

– United States: Companies such as Kellanova highlighted their female STEM employees, while Michigan celebrated the contributions of women to the reliability of the electric grid, demonstrating the significant impact of women in science.

– India: The Indian Alliance unveiled a web series that spotlighted the journeys of female intermediate fellows in science, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and career growth.

– Europe: UNESCO Headquarters in Paris hosted a hybrid event uniting scientists, policymakers, and students to discuss inclusivity in STEM careers. The day also featured a screening of “Women of Science,” a documentary that celebrates the achievements of European female scientists.

These celebrations transcended recognition, focusing on advocacy for inclusive educational reforms, increased funding for women-led research, and initiatives aimed at dismantling gender stereotypes in STEM education from an early age.

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Tems Celebrates Grammy Win with Surprise Performance in Lagos

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Following her historic win at the 2025 Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, Tems returned to Nigeria to celebrate with her fans in a surprise performance held in Lagos on February 4, 2025. The event was a testament to her deep connection with her home country and the support she receives from her community.

The event was an emotional celebration, with thousands in attendance to honor her achievement. Tems performed her Grammy-winning song alongside other hits from her album “Born in the Wild,” creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with pride. The concert sparked significant social media reactions, with #TemsHomecoming and #GrammyWinner trending across Nigeria. Local and international media covered the event, capturing Tems’ reflections on her win and her plans for the future, emphasizing the importance of the award for African music. During the concert, Tems introduced and performed with up-and-coming Nigerian artists, showcasing her commitment to fostering local talent. She also donated part of her earnings to charities supporting music education and youth in Lagos. Tems hinted at new music and collaborations, suggesting her Grammy win would propel her further artistic endeavors.

The celebration was viewed as a cultural event, highlighting the global influence of Nigerian music and predicting increased international opportunities for Nigerian artists. Global media outlets covered the story, amplifying Tems’ role in cultural exchange through music.

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Nollywood Mourns as Actress Pat Ugwu Passes Away at 35

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Nollywood actress Pat Ugwu has tragically passed away at the age of 35, as confirmed by various news outlets and social media posts. Fellow actor Emeka Okoye shared the heartbreaking news on his Instagram, expressing his sorrow and detailing her funeral arrangements.

Her untimely death has raised alarm among her peers regarding the troubling trend of increasing fatalities within the Nollywood community. Emeka Okoye and other industry stars have openly mourned her loss, highlighting the significant impact she made during her brief career.

In a shared funeral poster, it was announced that Pat Ugwu’s funeral rites would take place over the next two days, marking a rapid transition from her passing to her final farewell.

This tragic event not only underscores the loss of a promising talent but also reignites critical discussions about health and well-being within Nigeria’s entertainment industry. As the industry mourns, it is compelled to reflect on the pressures and health challenges that could be contributing to this alarming trend.

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AXA Mansard Tasks Women, Vehicle Owners on Genuine Third-Party Motor Insurance Policies

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AXA Mansard Insurance Plc has urged women, vehicle owners, and motorists in the country to ensure they obtain only genuine Third-Party Motor Insurance policies from registered companies and their accredited agents.

The call is coming on the heels of the recent announcement made by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) that they would commence enforcement of the Third-Party Motor Insurance Policy. Nationwide from February 1, 2025.

The initiative, which aligns with the provisions of Section 68 of the Insurance Act 2003, has been welcomed by NAICOM and the NIA, respectively, noting that it is a significant step towards strengthening compliance, ensuring road safety, and protecting motorists and third parties on Nigerian roads.

Speaking on the commencement of the enforcement, Chief Marketing Officer, AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, Adebola Surakat, said with defaulters facing fines of up to ₦250,000, the tendency of unscrupulous elements selling fake motor insurance policies to unsuspecting members of the public may be on the rise.

She advises the insuring public to secure all their insurance policies, including motor insurance from only registered companies and their accredited agents.

“As a brand committed to protecting our customers and the insuring public, we strongly advise motorists to be cautious and obtain their insurance policies only from licensed and trusted insurers.
The rise in enforcement may lead to a surge in counterfeit policies, leaving motorists exposed to financial risks.

“As a leader in the industry, we recognise that raising awareness at this time is the right thing to do because if we allow the public to run into the wrong hands, it will be a setback for the tremendous work that we have been doing to build trust in insurance. When people buy the counterfeit insurance policy, they will not be able to present it to the police nor will they be able to claim with it if any risks manifest. The backlash will be on the insurance sector, not the fraudulent agents. So, we are taking it as a responsibility to create awareness”.

Surakat explained that people can visit either the NAICOM or NIA website for list of registered insurance companies in Nigeria.

“We have even made it simpler at AXA Mansard, any type of motor insurance ranging from Third Party Motor Insurance to Comprehensive Motor Insurance can be purchased straight from our website. You can get your motor insurance certificate in less than five minutes on either our website, mobile app, or any of our welcome centres nationwide”, she said.

“We have continuously demonstrated reliability through prompt claims payment and seamless customer experience. So, we assure the public of an excellent customer experience throughout the life cycle of the policy.

AXA Mansard reassures its customers that it remains steadfast in its commitment to providing affordable, accessible, and genuine motor insurance solutions to protect Nigerian motorists from unnecessary financial liabilities.

“We understand the challenges that come with compliance, so we urge all vehicle owners to prioritize authenticity when purchasing their Third-Party Motor Insurance and avoid the risks associated with fake policies,” Surakat added.

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Mouka Partners Lagos State Govt to Celebrate First Babies of the Year

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Mouka, Nigeria’s leading manufacturer of mattresses and bedding products, ushered in 2025 with its cherished tradition of celebrating families with newborns born on New Year’s Day. This initiative emphasises the company’s commitment to enhancing lives and fostering quality sleep from the cradle.

In collaboration with public healthcare facilities across 13 states, including Lagos, Oyo, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Gombe, Kano, and Plateau, Mouka celebrated the first babies of the year. The company presented gifts, such as Mouka Dreamtime Baby Mattressesdesigned to ensure optimal comfort and well-being for infants, as well as Pillows, Diapers, and Baby Jelly.

In Lagos, Mouka partnered with the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, to honour the first babies born in 2025. The event featured visits to Isolo General Hospital, Isolo, Ifako-Ijaiye General Hospital, Agege, and Ikorodu General Hospital, where mothers of newborns received celebratory gifts. Additionally, a heartwarming party was hosted at Ifako-Ijaiye General Hospital for all the first babies born in Lagos from 2020-2024.

Baby Olaolu, a girl weighing 2.75 kg, was the first baby of the year at Ikorodu General Hospital, born at 12:34 a.m. Meanwhile, at Ifako-Ijaiye General Hospital, twins Osayomi made their arrival just minutes apart—a girl weighing 2.5 kg was born at 12:14 a.m., followed by her brother, weighing 2.49 kg, at 12:15 a.m. At Isolo General Hospital, Baby Lawal, a boy weighing 2.7 kg, was born at 1:32 a.m., marking another joyous start to the New Year.

Representing the Chief Commercial Officer of Mouka, Mr Dimeji Osingunwa, Tolani Tijani, Brand Manager, reaffirmed the brand’s dedication to promoting healthy sleep habits, stating: “As advocates of quality sleep, Mouka believes in nurturing healthy sleep practices from infancy. Our Dreamtime mattress is crafted with children’s comfort in mind to foster optimal physical and cognitive development. It is water-resistant yet breathable to keep the body cool through the night. It is also made with the right foam density to keep children comfortable while sleeping.”

Mouka extended this celebration beyond Lagos; at the University Teaching Hospital in Ibadan Oyo State, the first baby, Asimiyu, was delivered at 12:01 am, and the 2nd baby, Olaniyi, was delivered at 2:43 am. Other Mouka representatives visited hospitals across Nigeria to present gifts and bring joy to families of New Year babies. The initiative reinforces Mouka’s reputation as a socially responsible organization with a legacy of positively impacting communities.

Grateful parents of the newborns expressed heartfelt appreciation for Mouka’s good gestures, which highlighted the company’s dedication to adding value to Nigerian lives.

With over 64 years of providing trusted sleep solutions, Mouka remains a household name in Nigeria. Its product offerings include the Royal Luxury Pillow Top Mattresses, Wellbeing Orthopaedic Mattresses, Mondeo Firm Spring Mattress, mattress toppers, and a wide range of pillows—each designed to ensure Nigerians sleep better and wake up refreshed.

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MTN Nigeria Staff Team up to Stand Against Gender-Based Violence

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In a powerful display of solidarity, MTN Nigeria staff (fondly called MTNers) joined hands—literally and figuratively—to say #NoExcuse to gender-based violence (GBV). As part of the company’s efforts during this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which happened between November 25 to December 10, 2024, MTNers gathered at the MTN’s rooftop event center in Lagos to form a united front against this pervasive societal issue.

 

The striking image of MTNers standing hand in hand sent a strong message: the fight against GBV requires collective action, compassion, and unwavering commitment. The gesture was both symbolic and actionable, echoing the core values of respect, equality, and inclusion that MTN champions as part of its corporate ethos.

 

This demonstration occurred after a recent exclusive screening of Deafening Silence, a powerful film highlighting the harsh realities of GBV, hosted on December 10, 2024. The event and the united gesture reflect the company’s drive to amplify awareness and inspire action among its workforce and beyond.

“Gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue; it’s a human rights issue that requires all of us to act,” said Temilade Olabanji, Senior Manager, Sustainability and Shared Value at MTN Nigeria.

MTN’s participation in the global 16 Days of Activism campaign reflects its belief that businesses must take responsibility in shaping a better society. Through the #NoExcuse initiative, the company encourages open dialogue, education, and proactive measures to challenge the attitudes and systems that enable gender-based violence.

 

While the Deafening Silence screening sparked conversation and reflection, the unity gesture from MTNers served as a visual commitment to turn awareness into action. The company is calling on Nigerians everywhere to join the movement by speaking out, standing with survivors, and working to eliminate the root causes of GBV.

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Nwaire, Igbokwe Extol Ma Anekwe’s Motherly Virtues

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By Daphne Uduneje

Apostle Samuel Nwaire, The General Overseer of Christian Life Gospel Assembly, Oke-Afa, Lagos, and Eng. Joe Igbokwe, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), have extolled the virtues of late Madam Ezinne Theresa Anekwe, who died recently at the age 86.

Describing the late Anekwe as a devoted woman of God, Mr Igbokwe advised the bereaved family not to mourn, emphasizing that 86 years is a great number.

Speaking at the Service of Songs in honour of late Anekwe held at Bucknor area of Lagos State on Thursday, the APC stalwart advised all Ndigbo in APC members to continue to build bridges across the country, so that they could make more friends.

Also speaking at the Service of Songs, Apostle Nwaire, who was accompanied by his wife, Pastor (Mrs) Cecilia Nwaire, Pastor Sunday Itor, both of Christian Life, described late Anekwe as a good woman who lived for others.

Nwaire, a Commissioner for Power in Imo State, led a delegation of church members from the Christian Life Gospel Assembly to the occasion, including Pastor Abel, Pastor (Mrs) Stella Ugboaja; Elder (Mrs) Nwana, and Pastor (Mrs) Chimeziri Cletus.

In his speech, the chief host of the event and son-in-law to the deceased, Mr Moses Akaigwe, said the occasion was a solemn way of paying tribute to late Anekwe and to also celebrate the kind of life she lived while on earth.

Akaigwe, a multiple award-winning auto journalist who described her mother-in-law as a great woman said “I went to Enugu to look for wife from this woman and I ended up having a mother instead of a mother-in-law. I went to her as a son-in-law but ended up as her son. Everything about her is an embodiment of the virtuous women described in the Bible (in Proverbs 31)

Akaigwe also expressed joy that late Anekwe’s noble lifestyle has rubbed of on his marriage, being that his wife, Amb Stella Nkoli Akaigwe, took to her mother’s strong characters which have helped to stabilize their marriage for decades.

He, therefore, stated that her marriage has kept going on smoothly without any interference, due to a foundation the late woman had laid by training her daughter very well.

L-R: Deacon Moses Akaigwe; Chief (Mrs) Stella Akaigwe; Barr. Oby Onu; and Engr. Joe Igbokwe

One of the highlights of the event was the sermon delivered by Pastor Chima Wisdom, who emphasized on the need for everyone to live a good life.

Pastor Chima advised the audience to always do something good they can be remembered for, when one departs the world.

Affirming that late Anekwe lived a good life, Pastor Chima advised, saying “What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole of this life and lose his soul. We are all passengers in this life. So my advice is that, when you live, let there be something you can be remembered for”.

The first bible reading taken from Job 19: 23-27 was by Master Chidera Akaigwe while the second reading from Thessalonians 4:13-18 was read by Chioma Akaigwe. Chidubem Akaigwe’s bible reading was from Revelation 22:1-6.

Late Ma Theresa Anekwe’s “favourite” grand daughter, Ijeoma Akaigwe, rendered a moving tribute to her late grandmother. saying she embraced God’s love with open arms from her earliest days.
Her faith was not just a part of her life, according to Ijeoma, but was the foundation upon which she built everything else.

Part of Ijeoma Akaigwe’s tribute to her grandma read, “Our late grandmother was our spiritual guide. She taught us to pray, to seek God’s wisdom in all things, and to trust in His love.

“Today, as we say goodbye to her, we take comfort in knowing that she is now in the arms of her Savior. As it says in 2 Timothy 4:7-8, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness.”
Tributes also came from Chief Chris Ekwilo, a chieftain of Ndi Igbo in APC; the Women’s Leader, Barr. Oby Onu; and an Igbo leader in Oshodi-Isolo Local Govt. Area, Chief (Mrs.) Kate Emereuwa.

Mrs. Ada Iwuoha, the widow of the late Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) National President, Bonny Iwuoha, testified that late Madam Anekwe prayed for her at a time she had been married for years without a child, assuring her that she she would soon have children.

Shedding tears of joy, Mrs Iwuoha presented her four children – three boys and a girl – as evidence that God later answered Madam Anekwe’s prayers for her.

The Service of Songs was well attended by friends and well wishers, including APC Party faithfuls, community leaders and guests from both Abagana and other communities in Anambra State, including the Chairman of Abagana Welfare Union (AWU), Lagos branch, Barr. Peter Ozobialu, and Chief Emmanuel Asiegbu.

Before the service ended, Apostle Nwaire prayed for the Akaigwes for a successful funeral in Eziowelle, Anambra State.

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Minister Canvasses For More Inclusion of Women In Politics

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Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye has emphasised on the need for more inclusion of Women in Politics and governance, following the crucial role they play in socio-economic development of the country.

The Minister stated this at the closeout and dissemination ceremony of Woman’s Voice and Leadership project in Abuja, the nation capital.

The Women’s Voice and Leadership project is a five-year project funded by Global Affairs Canada and supported by ActionAid Nigeria, with the aim in empowering women and promoting gender equality in FCT.

The Minister who was represented by the Principal Social Welfare officer of the Ministry, Mr. Alake Olaniran said the ministry was committed to ensuring the rights of Women were given adequate support in achieving their goals.

“Women’s Voice and Leadership, WVL has increase women participation in leadership and key decision making process in respective states driven by this project, as women have been able to utilize their leadership and negotiation skills to address overwelming issues of governance in their community in their state and the country in general.

“We appreciate ActionAid Nigeria and their implementing team for the key mine stone, and urged all to support the achievement the mandate of ensuring gender equality. We are committed to ensuring that the life’s of Nigerian Woman is transform in areas of education, free from gender violence and inclusion in politics. Our doors are open for further collaboration partnership for future programmes,” she said.

The President, Nigerian Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Aisha Ibrahim said the project was aimed at tackling the barriers to gender equality and supporting the empowerment of women and girls through provision of financial and technical resources to local feminist/women’s rights organisations in Nigeria which had yielded the positive result.

“Through this project, Action Aid Nigeria has provided demonstrable evidence of its capability to effectively manage sub-granting initiatives. This is being done through the provision of multiple layers of funding and tailored capacity building support to these organizations.
Mrs. Ibrahim further called for more inclusion of Women in Politics looking at their role and selflessness towards nation building. While commending ActionAid and other partners for building the capacity of women.
” For Democracy, it has come to stay in Nigeria and for women to get their rightful place, they must participate actively in the political processes in Nigeria. We want women to encourage participation notwithstanding the obstacles they faced in the past. Women should know that we can’t stop participating in the electoral processes if we want things to change. Like they say: A journey of a thousand miles begins with a step. This is our own first step. There is a thousand more to go, but if we don’t start with the first step, we will not get to that one thousand,” she added.

The event, organised by FCT Women Voice Leadership, WVL and other eight Partners, highlighted the achievements, shared the learnings and discussion on the sustainable impact of the WVL-N project.

 

 

Credit: Voice of Nigeria

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Veteran Singer Onyeka Onwenu Dies at 72

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Veteran singer Onyeka Onwenu has died at the age of 72 on Tuesday at the Reddington Hospital in Lagos.

She slumped at the birthday party of the Managing Director of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Mrs Stella Okoli before she was rushed to the hospital where she died.

Singer well known for her songs such as One Love,” “Iyogogo,” and “Ekwe” was also an actress, journalist, and politician.

Onyeka Onwenu was born on January 31, 1952, in Arondizuogu, Imo State, and was raised in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Known as the “Elegant Stallion,” she held a BA in International Relations and Communication from Wellesley College, Massachusetts, and an MA in Media Studies from The New School for Social Research, New York. Onwenu initially worked for the United Nations before returning to Nigeria in 1980 to join the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).

Her groundbreaking work with NTA included the internationally acclaimed documentary “Nigeria: A Squandering of Riches,” which highlighted corruption and environmental issues in Nigeria. Onwenu transitioned from secular music to gospel in the 1990s, writing and performing songs addressing social issues such as HIV/AIDS awareness, peace, and women’s rights.

Throughout her career, Onwenu released numerous albums, including *For the Love of You*, *Endless Life*, *In The Morning Light*, and *Dancing In The Sun*. She collaborated with notable artists like Sunny Ade and was recognized for her significant contributions to the Nigerian music and film industries.

Onwenu’s acting career was equally illustrious, featuring in notable Nollywood films like *Nightmare*, *Widow’s Cot*, and *Half of a Yellow Sun*. She earned critical acclaim, including an Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role in 2006.

In addition to her artistic endeavors, Onwenu was actively involved in politics and social activism. She served as Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and was appointed Executive Director/CEO of the National Centre for Women Development by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2013. Onwenu’s advocacy for artists’ rights led her to protest against the Nigerian Television Authority for unpaid royalties, a move that garnered significant support from the artistic community.

Onwenu’s legacy as a trailblazer in Nigerian entertainment and her tireless advocacy for social justice will be remembered for generations. She is survived by her family and millions of fans who will continue to celebrate her life and contributions to music, film, and society. The late Onyeka Onwenu, known as the “Elegant Stallion,” left an indelible mark on the Nigerian music and film industries.

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