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The #SMEARIT Campaign Ignites Nationwide Advocacy For Cervical Cancer Prevention And Early Detection

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

In a country where cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women, a bold, fun, and powerful movement is changing the narrative. The #SMEARIT Campaign, spearheaded by the Exquisite Magazine Cancer Care (EMAC) Foundation, is lighting up social media feeds and communities across Nigeria, turning awareness into action and saving lives through early detection and prevention.

Cervical cancer is preventable. Yet, every year, thousands of Nigerian women are diagnosed, with many losing their lives due to late detection. According to the World Health Organisation, over 300,000 women die globally from this disease annually, the majority in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria where access to screening and vaccination remains a challenge. The culprit? Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). But here’s the good news: with HPV vaccination, regular screening (Pap smears, HPV testing, or Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid – VIA), and timely treatment of pre-cancerous cells, cervical cancer can be stopped in its tracks.

Enter the #SMEARIT Campaign – a creative, stigma-busting initiative that has been igniting nationwide advocacy since its launch.

Founded by Dr. Tewa Onasanya, the driving force behind Exquisite Magazine and the EMAC Foundation, the campaign uses a simple yet unforgettable challenge to get everyone talking: Smear lipstick on your face, snap a photo or video, post it on social media with #SMEARIT, tag @emac_cervicalcancerfoundation, and challenge your friends to do the same. Men are encouraged to join the movement too –by holding up a #SMEARIT sign – because prevention is everyone’s business.

“Cervical cancer is preventable, yet too many women lose their lives due to late detection. Through this free screening initiative and the #SmearIt campaign, we are encouraging women to get screened, learn about HPV prevention, and spread awareness. Early detection saves lives,” says Dr. Tewa Onasanya.

The campaign has partnered with brands like Amali Cosmetics to offer free cervical cancer screenings in key areas such as Jakande, Lagos, especially around Cervical Cancer Awareness Month (January) and World Cancer Day (February 4). These efforts include education sessions, HPV vaccination drives, and on-ground screenings that have already reached thousands of women. The goal? To normalise conversations, break down myths (no, it doesn’t only affect certain women, and screening isn’t painful or scary), and make prevention accessible nationwide.

How You Can Join the #SMEARIT Movement Today:

Smear your lipstick (or hold the sign if you’re a guy) and take a fun selfie or video.

Post it with #SMEARIT and tag @emac_cervicalcancerfoundation.

Challenge 5–10 friends to join – the more, the merrier!

Visit www.smearitafrica.com to find screening centres near you, book a free or low-cost test, or learn more about the HPV vaccine.

Whether you’re in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, or any corner of the country, your small action creates a powerful ripple. Awareness leads to screening. Screening leads to early detection. Early detection saves lives – and entire families.

Cervical cancer doesn’t have to be a death sentence. With #SMEARIT, Nigeria is rising to eliminate it.

Small action. Powerful impact. Cervical cancer is preventable.

 

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UNICEF, Kano Govt Roll Out MAMII to Cut Maternal, Child Deaths

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By Prosper Mene

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has partnered with the Kano State Primary Healthcare Management Board (KSPHCMB) to intensify efforts against the persistently high rates of maternal and child mortality in the state.

The collaboration was announced during a state-level training workshop on the Maternal, Neonatal and Child Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiative (MAMII) held in Kano on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

UNICEF Nigeria’s Chief of Field Operations and Emergency, Judith Leveillee, who addressed participants at the training, described the situation as requiring urgent and coordinated intervention. The programme targets 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) across more than 200 wards where the need is most acute.

“Only about 50 percent of pregnant women in the state receive care from skilled health providers, while just 36 percent deliver with the assistance of skilled birth attendants,” Leveillee said. She added that under-five mortality stands at 158 deaths per 1,000 live births, calling the figures “a major public health concern that demands sustained action.

Leveillee praised the commitment of both the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and the Kano State Government for aligning with national health priorities. She assured that UNICEF will continue to support the rollout of MAMII alongside the Community-Based Health Worker programme in the selected wards.

The Director General of KSPHCMB, Salisu Ahmad Ibrahim, represented by the Director of Family Health, Aliyu Zubair Maidutse, reaffirmed the Board’s dedication to delivering quality, people-centred healthcare services.

“We are confident that adopting the MAMII approach will improve efficiency and service delivery across primary healthcare facilities,” he stated.

Nana Sanda Abubakar, Director of Community Health Services at NPHCDA, commended the initiative and stressed the importance of strong collaboration, capacity building, and strategic coordination.

“Sustained partnerships are vital for improving health outcomes and expanding access to essential services,” she noted.

The training equipped stakeholders with practical skills in client-centred case management to accelerate service delivery and achieve better health results.

MAMII is a federal government-backed innovation aimed at strengthening primary healthcare, boosting skilled birth attendance, and reducing preventable deaths among mothers and newborns, particularly in high-burden states like Kano.

Officials expressed optimism that the partnership will translate into measurable declines in mortality rates through improved access, community engagement, and data-driven interventions.

The initiative forms part of broader national and international efforts to address Nigeria’s maternal and child health challenges, with Kano identified as a critical focus area due to its population size and prevailing indicators.

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Nigerian-American Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna Elected Co-President of Harvard Law School Student Government

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By Prosper Mene

A remarkable achievement highlighting Nigerian excellence in global academia, features Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna, a Nigerian-American first-year student at Harvard Law School, who has been elected co-president of the Harvard Law School (HLS) Student Government for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Umunna will serve alongside her co-president, Tenzin Yonten, also a first-year (1L) student. Their election, announced on Thursday, marks a historic milestone: they are the first rising second-year students (2Ls) to assume the role in at least five years. The duo won the confidence of the HLS student body with a shared vision for inclusive leadership and community service.

Umunna, who holds an MPhil in Criminology from the University of Cambridge as a Gates Cambridge Scholar, brings a rich background in public service and advocacy. She previously worked as a District Representative for U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-MA) and has been actively involved at HLS, serving as a 1L Section Representative and as a committee member with the Harvard Black Law Students Association (HBLSA). She is also a recipient of the prestigious Chayes Fellowship, supporting her upcoming summer internship with the UK’s Public Defender Service. Her mother, Professor Dehlia Umunna, is a Clinical Professor of Law at HLS and Faculty Director of the Criminal Justice Institute.

In her LinkedIn statement, Umunna expressed gratitude: “I am humbled and honored to have been elected 2026-2027 Harvard Law School Student Government Co-President, alongside my wonderful co-candidate Tenzin Y.! Thank you to the Student Body for believing in our vision. We are ready to serve.”

The election has caused widespread celebration within Nigerian and African diaspora communities, with many hailing it as another proud moment of Nigerian representation at one of the world’s most prestigious institutions. HBLSA and other groups have extended congratulations, noting Umunna’s election alongside other Nigerian-American students like Osaze Osayande, who was elected as a class representative.

This achievement underscores the growing influence of young Nigerian talents in elite educational and leadership spaces, from Cambridge to Harvard.

Congratulations to Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna on this well-deserved milestone! Her journey from Gates Cambridge Scholar to HLS student leader inspires many aspiring young Nigerians and African-Americans pursuing excellence in law and public service.

 

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Easter: Emulate Christ Through Forgiveness, Soludo’s Wife Urges Christians

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By Prosper Mene

In the spirit of Easter celebrations, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the elegant wife of Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has called on Christians across Nigeria and beyond to emulate the example of Jesus Christ by choosing forgiveness over bitterness.

The First Lady delivered the heartfelt charge during a special Easter outreach programme held on Friday, April 3, 2026, at the Governor’s Lodge in Awka, where she hosted women from various faith-based groups, widows, and young girls for a morning of prayer, fellowship, and empowerment. Dressed in a graceful white and gold embroidered boubou with subtle floral accents that symbolised resurrection and new beginnings, Mrs. Soludo radiated warmth and grace as she spoke with quiet authority and genuine compassion.

“Today, as we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, I urge every Christian to look inward and ask: Am I truly emulating Christ? The greatest gift He gave us on the cross was forgiveness – even for those who betrayed and crucified Him,” she said. “Forgiveness is not weakness; it is the highest form of strength. It heals families, communities, and even our nation. Let us release every grudge, every pain, and every offence this Easter. That is how we truly rise with Christ.”

Mrs. Soludo further encouraged the gathering to extend forgiveness in their homes, workplaces, and even in the political space, noting that true peace begins with individual hearts. She shared personal reflections on how forgiveness has shaped her own journey as a wife, mother, and public servant, leaving many in the room visibly moved.

The event also featured prayers for peace in Anambra State, gift presentations to widows, and empowerment kits for young girls, reinforcing the Soludo family’s commitment to faith-driven leadership and community development.

Her message comes at a time when many Nigerians are seeking healing amid personal and national challenges, making the call to “forgive as Christ forgave” even more timely and relevant.

Social media is already abuzz with reactions, with many describing the First Lady’s words as “exactly what Nigeria needs this Easter.”

Womentimes joins millions in saying a big Amen! This Easter, may we all choose forgiveness and rise in love, just as Christ did.

What are your thoughts on this powerful Easter charge? Have you been inspired to forgive someone this season? Drop your reflections in the comments and share this with someone who needs to hear it.

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Former Minister Onikepo Akande Urges Women to Shun Self-Destructive Practices and Embrace Mutual Support for Leadership

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Ibadan – Former Minister of Industry, Chief Onikepo Akande, has called on Nigerian women, particularly in Ibadan, to reject self-destructive practices and instead support one another in pursuing leadership positions amid challenges posed by a patriarchal society.

Akande, who also holds the title of Iyaleye Iyalode of Ibadan, made the call while delivering the keynote address at the maiden 2026 Ibadan Women’s Conference held at Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo, in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The conference, themed “Developing Ibadan Women Through Leadership Advocacy,” formed part of activities marking the Ibadan Cultural Festival 2026, held in honour of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja. The broader festival theme is “Ibadan: Remembering Our Past, Understanding Our Present, Designing Our Future.” It commenced on Monday, March 23, 2026, and brought together traditional leaders, academics, policymakers, and professionals.

In her address, Akande described the patriarchal society as “shark-infested waters” and stressed the need for women to act as “their sisters’ keepers.” She encouraged them to build strong networks, seize training opportunities, play to their strengths, and approach leadership with confidence, courage, and boldness.“The sky is so wide and everybody can soar,” she said, urging women to empower one another rather than engage in practices that undermine collective progress.

Guest lecturer Yetunde Adegoke, in her presentation titled ‘Empowering Ibadan Women for Cultural Preservation and Socio-Economic Growth,’ noted that women’s empowerment is a cherished heritage that must be preserved and promoted. She highlighted the role of women’s leadership advocacy in revitalising cultural heritage, facilitating intergenerational knowledge transfer, and strengthening community identity and unity.President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Adeniyi Ajewole, explained that the conference was approved because of the significant historical roles women played in the formation and development of Ibadan. He pointed to the Iyalode of Ibadanland ascendancy structure, which mirrors the Olubadan line, as recognition that women’s contributions cannot be overlooked.Chairman of the Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, Mogaji Moshood Gbolagade, said the event aims to empower women, promote their participation in leadership, encourage collaboration to overcome challenges, build relationships, and strive for excellence.

Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun, commended the initiative and called for actionable recommendations on advancing women’s leadership and advocacy. He also drew attention to the deteriorating state of some ancient landmarks and shrines in the city due to encroachment by land grabbers.The conference underscores ongoing efforts to amplify women’s voices in leadership and cultural preservation as Ibadan reflects on its history while shaping its future.

 

 

 

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Wofai Fada and Taiwo Cole Announce They’re Expecting Baby No. 2 in Heartwarming Golden-Hour Reveal

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nigerian actress, comedian and media personality Wofai Fada and her husband, Taiwo Cole, are expecting their second child.

The couple made the joyful announcement on Tuesday, April 1, 2026, through a heartwarming Instagram video that has already captured the hearts of fans across the country.

Filmed during golden hour in a serene park, the video shows the family of three in coordinated cream outfits, basking in warm, natural light. Wofai glows in a puff-sleeved cream crop top with large button details and a matching tiered maxi skirt that beautifully frames her baby bump. She completes the look with a white crocheted floral headpiece and chunky gold bangles. Taiwo complements her perfectly in a cream tunic and deep burgundy trousers.

Their adorable daughter, Ifedayo Konaghai Cole (born November 2024), steals the show in a light pink floral dress. She is seen holding a large sunflower, being playfully lifted into the air by her parents, and gently pressing her tiny hand against her mother’s bump, a sweet preview of her role as a big sister.

A yellow clothesline strung with tiny baby onesies adds a touching, personal touch. One reads “Hugs are all I need,” while another says “Voted Most Handsome,” hinting at the excitement building for the newest addition.

Wofai captioned the post: “New chapter, same love story. Love makes the belly go round. It’s too many things to be grateful for. God has been faithful. God has been good to us.”

She also used the moment to wish her husband a happy birthday, adding: “Happy birthday to the man who makes my world complete. I’m so grateful for every moment we share. @taiwo.cole.7 Our princess is gonna be a big sister.”

Wofai Fada and Taiwo Cole tied the knot in a traditional wedding in Calabar, Cross River State, in May 2024, followed by a civil ceremony at the Ikoyi Registry in October 2024. Their first daughter, Ifedayo, arrived in November 2024, with Wofai announcing at the time, “Our princess is here. My joy is complete.”

The pregnancy reveal has sparked an outpouring of love and congratulations from fans, fellow celebrities and well-wishers, with many describing it as one of the most beautiful and genuine family moments shared online recently.Congratulations to Wofai Fada and Taiwo Cole on this beautiful new chapter! The Cole family is growing, and the internet is here for every golden-hour moment of it.

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Nigerian Music Power Couple Simi and Adekunle Gold Welcome Their Second Child

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

April 1, 2026

Nigerian singers Simi and Adekunle Gold have joyfully announced the arrival of their second child.

The announcement was made earlier today on Instagram by Simi, who shared a series of heartwarming maternity shoot photographs featuring the couple in matching denim outfits. In her caption, the “Duduke” hitmaker wrote: “+1. 3.10.26. God bless my little family #mommyof2.”

The post confirms the baby was born on March 10, 2026. Simi did not reveal the newborn’s gender or name, but the simple “+1” and “mommyof2” hashtag subtly put to rest earlier viral rumours that the couple had welcomed twins.

The couple, who tied the knot in a private ceremony in January 2019, already share a daughter, Adejare, born in 2020—the same year they celebrated their first wedding anniversary. Their second pregnancy was first teased in December 2025 when Simi made a glowing appearance in Adekunle Gold’s music video for “My Love Is The Same,” proudly showing off her baby bump.

Fans and colleagues have flooded social media with congratulatory messages. Actress Temi Otedola wrote, “Beautiful congratulations!!” while singer Ladipoe quipped, “Duduke Pt. 2.” Other celebrities including content creator Kiekie, skitmaker Broda Shaggi, and Folagade Banks also sent warm wishes.

The power couple continues to enjoy strong support across the music industry and among fans, who have long admired their low-key yet loving relationship and musical synergy.

Simi and Adekunle Gold have kept details of the new addition private, choosing to share only the joyful news and beautiful images while focusing on their growing family.

Congratulations to the Kosoko family!

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Nigerian Grammy winner Tems made a triumphant return to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on March 31, 2026, delivering a soul-stirring live performance of “What You Need” that left the studio audience — and viewers worldwide — completely captivated.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Fresh off the release of her surprise 2025 EP Love Is a Kingdom, Tems brought the track’s raw emotion to the iconic stage. Backed by a live band and vocalists positioned behind a subtle fringe curtain, she stood center stage at the microphone, delivering the song with quiet confidence and vocal precision.

No flashy choreography or over-the-top production, just Tems, her powerful voice, and lyrics that hit straight to the heart: a bold declaration of independence from a relationship that no longer serves. “I’m better on my own, you’re better when you’re gone,” she sang, turning the late-night set into an intimate, almost sacred moment.

The performance wasn’t just about the music. Tems stunned in a shimmering silver mesh gown that perfectly balanced elegance and edge. Styled by Dunsin Wright, the floor-length white strapless piece featured a fitted mermaid silhouette that flowed into soft layers of gathered tulle at the hem. A textured, ruffled edge framed the neckline, while a dramatic tulle overlay added graceful movement across the hip. The metallic silver mesh caught the lights beautifully, giving the entire look an ethereal, otherworldly glow. Makeup by Kayla Perez and hair by Ashanti Lation completed the vision, loose, full curls framing her face for a natural yet red-carpet-ready finish.

“What You Need,” co-written and produced by Tems and longtime collaborator GuiltyBeatz, is one of seven deeply personal tracks on Love Is a Kingdom. The project, her first solo release since the 2024 debut album Born in the Wild, explores love in all its complexities — from self-love and spiritual connection to the courage it takes to walk away. Fans have been streaming the EP nonstop since its November 2025 drop via RCA Records, and this Fallon appearance is already being hailed as one of the standout late-night performances of the year.

Tems has long been a global ambassador for Afrobeats and Nigerian talent, and moments like this continue to cement her status as one of music’s most compelling voices. Whether you’re discovering the song for the first time or adding it to your repeat playlist, the Tonight Show version is unmissable.

 

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AXA Mansard Posts 22% Revenue Increase, Maintains Resilience in Challenging Economic Climate

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AXA Mansard Insurance Plc has announced a 22% increase in its insurance revenue, reaching ₦160.56 billion for the year ended December 31, 2025. Despite macroeconomic challenges such as inflationary pressures and foreign exchange volatility, the insurer demonstrated sustained growth across its core segments.

The company, part of the AXA Group, disclosed these audited financial results in Lagos on Monday. The results show broad-based expansion in Property & Casualty, Life & Savings, and Health insurance lines.

Gross Written Premiums (GWP) jumped by 23% to ₦170.87 billion from ₦138.55 billion in 2024. This growth was driven by improved customer retention, new business acquisitions, and expansion of the distribution network.

A segment-wise breakdown reveals that Property & Casualty revenue grew by 11% to ₦68.48 billion, Life & Savings increased by 14% to ₦25.77 billion, while the Health segment recorded the highest growth, surging by 40% to ₦66.32 billion.

In terms of gross premiums, Property & Casualty climbed 20% to ₦73.42 billion, Life & Savings rose 15% to ₦26.84 billion, and Health premiums expanded significantly by 31% to ₦70.60 billion.

Commenting on the results, Chief Financial Officer Ngozi Ola-Israel noted, “The company’s performance reflects strong execution and resilience across its diversified portfolio.” She added that although Profit Before Tax (PBT) declined sharply by 81% to ₦6.12 billion from ₦31.69 billion in 2024, this was largely due to the absence of significant foreign exchange gains recorded in the prior year.

“In FY 2024, earnings were boosted by ₦27 billion in FX gains, compared to a ₦1 billion FX loss in 2025. Adjusting for this non-recurring impact, underlying profit would have grown by 50 per cent year-on-year,” she explained.

She further stated that the firm maintained a solid financial position supported by strong premium growth, prudent capital management, and adequate liquidity buffers, even amid rising claims and inflationary pressures that affected margins.

Chief Executive Officer Kunle Ahmed highlighted the company’s ability to deliver strong topline growth and stable underlying earnings despite cost pressures and global economic uncertainties. He added that the 2025 audited results position AXA Mansard to surpass the new minimum capital requirements recently introduced under Nigeria’s insurance reform framework.

“In line with the new capital thresholds, our current financial position comfortably exceeds the ₦15 billion requirement for non-life business and ₦10 billion for life operations. To further strengthen capital buffers, the board has decided not to propose dividend payments for the 2025 financial year,” Ahmed stated.

Industry analysts observe that AXA Mansard’s decision to retain earnings aligns with a broader trend among Nigerian insurers preparing for upcoming recapitalization mandates that could reshape industry competitiveness.

The company’s Insurance Service Result increased by 9%, reaching ₦14.87 billion, mainly driven by a 65% surge in earnings from the Property & Casualty segment. However, performance in the Life & Savings and Health segments declined by 4% and 42%, respectively, due to higher technical reserves and increased claims severity.

Operating expenses also rose, with insurance service expenses increasing by 32%, reflecting elevated claims across key portfolios, especially in general accident and aviation insurance.

Despite profitability pressures, AXA Mansard’s balance sheet remains robust. Total assets grew by 18% to ₦227.94 billion, and shareholders’ funds increased by 11% to ₦52.3 billion, reinforcing its capital strength.

However, Profit After Tax dropped significantly by 98% to ₦0.62 billion, impacted by FX-related effects and changes in tax regulations, including an increase in capital gains tax from 10% to 30%, which resulted in a one-off deferred tax adjustment.

From an industry perspective, analysts note that the company’s performance reflects broader trends in Nigeria’s insurance sector, where premium growth remains strong but profitability faces headwinds from macroeconomic factors, regulatory changes, and claims inflation.

The gap between revenue growth and bottom-line performance highlights the sector’s ongoing transition under IFRS 17 reporting standards, emphasizing underwriting discipline and earnings quality over one-off gains.

Experts also highlight the rapid growth of the health insurance segment, driven by rising healthcare costs, increased awareness, and corporate demand for employee health coverage.

Looking ahead, AXA Mansard plans to focus on strengthening underwriting discipline, improving operational efficiency, and deepening digital capabilities to sustain growth. Ahmed expressed optimism that as macroeconomic conditions stabilize and FX volatility subsides, the company’s underlying earnings will become more evident.

“With a strong balance sheet, disciplined execution, and clear strategic priorities, we are well positioned to improve profitability and deliver long-term value to shareholders,” he said.

Market analysts believe insurers that effectively balance growth, cost control, capital adequacy, and innovation will be better positioned to thrive amid ongoing industry consolidation and regulatory reforms.

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Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, Mother of Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Passes Away in Cairo

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, the mother of detained former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has died at an advanced age after a protracted illness.

She passed away on Friday, March 27, 2026, in Cairo, Egypt, where she had been residing with her son and receiving medical treatment since he left office as governor in 2023.

The news was announced by her grandson, Hon. Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, a member of the House of Representatives representing Kaduna North Federal Constituency. In a social media post, he wrote:

“Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. From Allah SWT we came and to Him we shall all return. I would like to inform the public of the demise of my Grandmother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai who passed away a few hours ago. She is the biological mother of our father, Mallam Nasir @elrufai. We are grateful for the life she lived and may Allah SWT bless her gentle soul. May He bless the souls of the parents we have lost. On behalf of our family, we seek your prayers.”

Hajiya Umma is survived by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Family sources described her as a devoted mother and matriarch who lived a fulfilled life.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended heartfelt condolences to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and the entire family. In a personal message, the President said:

“Nasir, please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your beloved mother, Hajiya Umma, which happened today in Cairo. As someone who had also lost an old mother, I share in your grief. I understand the depth of your loss.

Losing a mother is a pain unlike any other. I know that no words can fully ease your sorrow, but I pray that the memories of her love, wisdom, and guidance bring you comfort in the days ahead. I also hope you find strength in the remarkable life she lived and the values she instilled in the entire family.

As firm believers in Allah, we are convinced that she has played her part in this world as laid out for her by the Almighty and has gone back to her maker.

I join family, friends, and well-wishers in mourning with you. May Allah grant your dear mother Aljannah Firdaus.”

Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani also commiserated with the family. On behalf of the government and people of Kaduna State, he described the late Hajiya Umma as “not only a devoted mother and matriarch, but also a woman of rare grace, moral clarity, and quiet strength,” whose life was defined by compassion, humility, and service to humanity.

He added: “In this hour of grief, I stand in solemn solidarity with the El-Rufai family, praying that Almighty Allah will forgive her shortcomings, accept her righteous deeds, and grant her eternal repose in Aljannatul Firdaus. May He comfort the bereaved and grant them fortitude to endure this profound loss. Ameen.”

National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu offered condolences, praying for the forgiveness of her shortcomings and eternal rest in Aljannah Firdaus.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also reacted, describing the news as shocking and praying that Allah accepts her soul and grants her Al-Jannah Firdaus.

The family has requested prayers for the repose of Hajiya Umma’s soul.

Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. May Allah forgive her shortcomings, grant her Al-Jannah Firdaus, and comfort the El-Rufai family at this difficult time. Ameen.

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