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UI Medical Graduate Mabel Aruwajoye: From Finishing Secondary School at 12 to Becoming a Licensed Medical Laboratory Scientist

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Mabel Aruwajoye, a young Nigerian woman who completed secondary school at the tender age of 12 as her set’s best graduating student (BGS), has successfully earned her degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science from the prestigious University of Ibadan (UI), Nigeria’s first university.

Aruwajoye graduated as a licensed Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLSct.) at just 21 years old, eight years after leaving secondary school in 2018. She shared her remarkable journey on LinkedIn, detailing the challenges, rejections, and triumphs that defined her path.

 

Aruwajoye’s story began with exceptional promise. At 12, she topped her secondary school class. However, despite meeting the admission cutoff, she faced rejection from universities while her peers advanced. Her parents refused to let her idle at home, leading her to pursue Cambridge A-Levels.

The A-Levels journey had a rocky start at Educonsult before a mentor, Mr. Peters Abiodun, guided her to EAC, where she excelled with an impressive A*AB in 2020. This opened the door to direct entry admission into UI in 2021 to study Biomedical Laboratory Science at 200 level.

 

The university journey tested her limits. Aruwajoye described it as “anything but smooth.” The second semester of 200 level shook her confidence, while the 300 level clinical postings at the University College Hospital (UCH) demanded her all. In 400 level, she battled a malaria scare just days before her First Professional Exam but still passed with Distinction.

She found her stride in 500 level within Chemical Pathology. Her final semester research on toxicology pushed her endurance to the brink — manually running three parameters on 60 samples in just two days. Financial pressures mounted, but her family provided unwavering support.

In the end, her perseverance paid off handsomely: she achieved Distinctions in both professional examinations, graduated with a 2:1 degree, and obtained her professional license.

“From a 12-year-old BGS in Secondary School to a Licensed Medical Laboratory Scientist. It started with rejection… Eight years after secondary school, I am a 21 years old licensed Medical Laboratory Scientist of the First and the Best,” she wrote.

She expressed deep gratitude to God, her parents, siblings, supervisor, friends, roommate, and course mates, crediting them for her success.

Aruwajoye’s story has drawn widespread congratulations and admiration online, with many hailing her as an inspiration for young Nigerians facing educational hurdles.

Her achievement shows the potential of gifted young students in Nigeria while underscoring systemic challenges like age-related admission barriers and the value of determination, family support, and mentorship in overcoming them.

Mabel Aruwajoye now joins the ranks of exceptional young talents making strides in Nigeria’s medical and scientific fields. Her journey from child prodigy to licensed professional is not a powerful reminder that early brilliance, paired with resilience, can triumph over obstacles.

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Gowon: How Mrs Oye Williams Groomed Victoria to Become First Lady

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By Prosper Mene

Former Nigerian Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon (retd.) has shared intimate details of how his wife, Victoria Gowon, was prepared for the role of First Lady, including personal tutoring from the late Mrs. Efuntiloye (Oye) Mabel Williams, wife of accounting pioneer Chief Akintola Williams.

In excerpts from his newly launched 859-page autobiography, My Life of Duty and Allegiance, released at an event in Abuja, Gowon recounts the behind-the-scenes efforts to equip the then-young Victoria Zakari for her high-profile position during a turbulent period in Nigeria’s history.

Preparation for First Lady Role

Gowon explains that once his aides sensed his serious interest in Victoria, they proactively arranged for her enrollment in a finishing school in London to learn etiquette, protocol, and related skills — without initially consulting her father, Hamza Ahmadu, who served as Gowon’s Principal Secretary.

This move sparked a “volcanic” confrontation. Hamza reportedly thundered at the perceived disrespect: “How dare he do this without seeking my blessing and permission?” The situation was resolved only after Hamza’s wife intervened, persuading him that cancelling the already-advanced arrangements would be unwise.

Upon Victoria’s return from London, Mrs. Oye Williams stepped in to provide further hands-on guidance. Gowon describes Mrs. Williams as a “lively and highly respected lady” who offered practical tips drawn from her experience on etiquette, British customs and traditions, home management, and international protocol. Her goal was to ensure the First Lady would “appear most presentable, do Nigeria and womanhood proud, and avoid potentially embarrassing missteps.

Victoria, according to Gowon, absorbed the lessons gratefully but confidently asserted her own style when it came to her wardrobe. She told Mrs. Williams: “Aunty, I have already done a selection of what I need to wear, and I hope and am sure I will not embarrass you or Nigeria.”

Gowon praises his wife’s demeanour throughout the process as “unobtrusive and purposeful.” He notes that she worked quietly to make a smooth transition from bachelorette to First Lady and never sought to run a “parallel office” to his own.

Courtship and Controversial Wedding

The revelations appear in Chapter 17, titled “War’s Raging; Gowon’s Marrying.” Gowon first met Victoria in 1964 when she visited his Ikoyi residence with friends while training as a nurse at University College Hospital, Ibadan. Their relationship developed cautiously, with Victoria insisting on clarity and even requesting a written commitment from him.

The couple married on April 19, 1969, at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos, in a ceremony officiated by Bishop Seth Irunsewe Kale. Hamza eventually walked his daughter down the aisle despite earlier tensions.

The wedding drew significant controversy and media attention amid the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), with headlines proclaiming variations of “The war is raging; Gowon is marrying.” Many felt the timing was inappropriate, but Gowon noted he had delayed marriage thoughts to focus on national challenges. He credits Victoria’s supportive and non-frivolous nature for helping him navigate the public scrutiny.

Broader Context in the Autobiography

The book, spanning 36 chapters, covers Gowon’s life from his roots in Plateau State through his military career, the Civil War, his 1975 ouster, years in exile in the UK, and return to Nigeria. It also touches on family reflections, including Victoria’s regret over their children’s upbringing during exile.

This personal account from one of Nigeria’s longest-serving military leaders offers a glimpse into the private preparations and family dynamics behind public leadership during a defining era in the country’s history. Chief Akintola Williams, who passed away in 2023, remains celebrated as Nigeria’s first chartered accountant and a foundational figure in the nation’s accounting profession.

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Relationship

Nollywood Actress Sharon Ooja, Husband Welcome Baby Boy

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Popular Nollywood actress Sharon Ooja Nwoke and her husband, Ugo Nwoke, have joyfully announced the arrival of their first child together, a baby boy.

The actress shared the heartwarming news on her Instagram page on Wednesday, describing the newborn as “the most handsome baby boy I have ever seen.” In an emotional post, a clearly overwhelmed Sharon expressed profound gratitude to God for His perfect timing and safe delivery.

“I just gave birth to the most handsome baby boy I have ever seen 😍🥹❤️ I’m still so overwhelmed with joy and gratitude,” she wrote. “And wow… God really did it in His perfect timing. You are truly a merciful God 🙏.”

Sharon showered praises on her husband, Ugo, whom she affectionately calls “Odogwu,” for his unwavering support throughout the pregnancy. She highlighted his love, prayers, reassurance, back rubs, trips, baths, gifts, and emotional strength.

“Thank you to my husband… for loving me so fiercely beautifully through every stage of our pregnancy. Me, Win, and Zoey are so blessed to have you ❤️,” she added. The couple’s son has the initials W.I.N., and fans have already begun referring to her lovingly as “Mama Win.”

The actress also thanked her family and friends for respecting their privacy and keeping the pregnancy journey off social media, allowing the couple to enjoy the experience peacefully. She noted that while the first trimester was challenging, she ultimately cherished every moment.

Sharon Ooja, born on April 6, 1991, rose to prominence in Nollywood and has featured in several notable films. She and Ugo Nwoke had a private civil wedding in March 2024, followed by traditional and white wedding ceremonies in June 2024.

The news has elicited an outpouring of congratulatory messages from fans, colleagues, and fellow celebrities across social media platforms, celebrating the new addition to the family.

 

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Celeste Ojatula Teams Up with Dwin, The Stoic for Soulful Long-Distance Love Anthem “This Side of Love”

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nigerian singer-songwriter Celeste Ojatula has teamed up with acclaimed artist Dwin, The Stoic for a heartfelt new single titled “This Side of Love,” a tender exploration of intimacy, patience, and connection across distances.

Released on May 14, 2026, the warm, slow-burning track serves as the second single from Ojatula’s forthcoming EP Our Time In The Sun. Produced, mixed, and mastered by Celeste Ojatula herself, the song was written by Ifo (Ifoghale Wilson), Celeste Ojatula, and Dwin, The Stoic.

With its soulful melodies and vulnerable lyrics, “This Side of Love” beautifully captures the emotional landscape of long-distance relationships — the longing, the sweetness, and the quiet strength required to keep love alive when miles apart. The chemistry between Ojatula’s ethereal vocals and Dwin’s introspective delivery creates an intimate listening experience that feels both personal and universal.

 

The official music video, which has been warmly received by fans, was crafted with care and love, further enhancing the song’s emotional depth. Many listeners have shared how the track made them emotional, with some noting its bittersweet yet hopeful tone.

Celeste Ojatula, known for her distinctive sound that blends Afrosoul, alternative R&B, and heartfelt storytelling, continues to carve a unique space in the Nigerian music scene. Dwin, The Stoic, celebrated for his thoughtful lyricism and smooth delivery, complements her style perfectly on this collaboration.

Since its release, the song has been gaining steady traction across streaming platforms and social media, appearing on curated playlists and earning praise as one of the standout releases of the week. Fans and music lovers are already looking forward to the full EP Our Time In The Sun.

Stream “This Side of Love” now on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, where the official video is available.

This release further cements Celeste Ojatula as one of the most exciting voices emerging from Nigeria’s alternative music scene — delivering music that touches the heart while showcasing undeniable artistry.

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News

Jenifer Lewis Treats the Spirit Tunnel Like Her Personal Stage on The Jennifer Hudson Show

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By Prosper Mene

Hollywood legend Jenifer Lewis brought her unmatched energy, charisma, and show-stopping flair to The Jennifer Hudson Show, transforming the program’s popular “Spirit Tunnel” into her very own performance stage.

The 69-year-old actress, singer, and comedian, known for her scene-stealing roles in films like The Preacher’s Wife, Dreamgirls, and The Color Purple, didn’t just walk through the tunnel, she owned it. According to show clips and fan reactions, Lewis arrived prepared, having choreographed her entrance, written custom lyrics, and delivered high kicks while belting out her own theme song.

“Don’t mess with Jenifer Lewis For Real!” became the rallying cry as the moment quickly went viral across social media platforms.

Fans praised the veteran performer for turning what is typically a fun surprise entrance, where the tunnel plays a custom song for the guest  into a full-fledged production number.

One commenter summed it up perfectly: “She choreographed, wrote the lyrics, and high kicked her way down the tunnel!” Many noted that Lewis appeared to be the first guest to fully take creative control of the Spirit Tunnel experience.

The appearance, which featured Lewis promoting her work alongside other guests, also included a powerful musical moment when she and host Jennifer Hudson joined voices in a show-stopping duet, further electrifying the studio audience.

The Spirit Tunnel has become a signature highlight of The Jennifer Hudson Show, delighting guests and viewers with personalized musical entrances. Past stars like Gwen Stefani, Saweetie, and GloRilla have been surprised by the tunnel’s creative touches — but few have matched Lewis’ level of preparation and performance.

Social media rocked with praise for the icon, with users calling her “the Queen Mother” and celebrating her vitality and star power. At an age when many slow down, Lewis continues to prove she’s still very much in the business of serving unforgettable moments.

Clips of her Spirit Tunnel takeover have racked up millions of views, cementing it as one of the most memorable entrances in the show’s history.

With a career spanning over four decades, Jenifer Lewis is celebrated for her bold personality, powerful voice, and trailblazing roles. She remains a beloved figure in Hollywood for her authenticity and unapologetic joy.

The Jennifer Hudson Show continues to deliver feel-good television filled with music, laughter, and star power. Fans can catch new episodes on weekdays.

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News

Ibukun Awosika and Bola Adesola Inspire Graduating Women Leaders at RISE 2026 Grand Finale

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Beyond Limits Global has successfully concluded the inaugural cohort of its prestigious RISE (Reflect. Ignite. Strategise. Excel) Executive Leadership Programme for Women, culminating in an inspiring networking evening and grand finale at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Dr. Juliet Ehimuan, Founder and CEO of Beyond Limits Global and former Director at Google West Africa, hosted the high-profile event as Lead Faculty of the programme. The evening brought together over 100 senior female executives, industry leaders, and a distinguished faculty for an evening of reflection, networking, and strategic dialogue.

The centerpiece of the grand finale was a compelling fireside conversation themed “Leadership That Endures: Perspective, Judgment, and Legacy.” Moderated by Dr. Juliet Ehimuan, the session featured two iconic African corporate leaders: Bola Adesola, Chairman of Ecobank Nigeria and former CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria & West Africa, and Ibukun Awosika, Founder of The Chair Centre Group and the first female Chairperson of First Bank of Nigeria.

The discussion delved into the realities of boardroom stewardship, strategic judgment, and building institutions that transcend their founders. Both Awosika and Adesola emphasized intentional leadership rooted in foresight, conviction, and long-term impact — themes that aligned closely with the core objectives of the RISE curriculum.

Graduating participants also took the stage in a panel titled “In Conversation: Voices From the RISE Cohort,” moderated by renowned broadcaster Titi Oyinsan. Speakers including Onayimi Aiwerioghene (COO, Cardinal Stone Group), Ndifreke Udoidung (Programme Coordinator, Zipline), Oluwatoyin Arowolo (Senior ICT Manager, African Reinsurance Corporation), and Ifeoma Uba-Onubogu (MD, Investment One Trustees) shared transformative insights from the six-week journey.

Participants highlighted their shift from functional management to enterprise-wide influence and sovereignty, crediting the programme’s rigorous sessions, mentorship, and peer engagement for sharpening their executive edge.

Launched in March 2026 during Women’s History Month, RISE is a selective, intensive six-week executive leadership experience designed for senior executives, directors, and established entrepreneurs. Under Dr. Ehimuan’s leadership, the programme combined virtual strategy sessions, in-person intensives, one-on-one mentorship, and executive coaching to equip high-achieving women with the tools for enterprise stewardship in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

The world-class faculty included notable figures such as Amb. Opunimi Akinkugbe, Bonita Stewart, Bolanle Austen-Peters, Ndidi Nwuneli, Funke Opeke, and Bolaji Agbede, among others.

Dr. Juliet Ehimuan reflected on the programme’s success: “Six weeks and over 100 women leaders in one space. The conversations went to places boardrooms rarely reach… This cohort arrived as accomplished professionals, and they are leaving clearer, sharper, and more sovereign in how they lead.”

The grand finale featured artistic performances, including by Tena the Violinist, and fostered meaningful connections among participants, reinforcing the creation of a powerful network of women leaders poised to drive impact across industries in Africa and beyond.

This milestone underscores growing efforts to close leadership gaps and invest in transformative executive development for women in corporate Africa.

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News

Cynthia Ezinne Ohaeri Makes History as First Nigerian at Oxford’s Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

In a landmark achievement for Nigerian education and STEM representation, Cynthia Ezinne Ohaeri has become the first Nigerian to study at the University of Oxford’s prestigious Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment. She is pursuing an MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment as a member of Linacre College.

Ohaeri, a valedictorian with First-Class Honours in Physics and Astronomy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), secured the feat through a combination of academic excellence, professional experience, and competitive scholarships. She is a recipient of the prestigious Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at Oxford, alongside the AfOx-Linacre Norman and Ivy-Lloyd Scholarships. She was also nominated for the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarship and the Oxford Smith School Scholarship.

Her journey reflects years of deliberate preparation. Ohaeri maintained a folder titled “My Oxford Dreams” containing essays, scholarship links, and proof of her readiness. Despite coming from an environment that did not always foster such ambitions, she embraced the mantra: “Someone has to get in. Why not me?” She drew inspiration from figures like Elle Woods in Legally Blonde and the strong women in her family, including her mother and five sisters.

Before Oxford, Ohaeri amassed over six years of professional experience in aviation, oil and gas, and renewable energy. Her roles included petroleum engineering, solar project management, carbon efficiency modelling, data analysis, and air traffic management. She has conducted research on gas flaring in Nigeria and decarbonising aviation using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and hydrogen.

She is also an entrepreneur and advocate. As Founder and Societal Impact Director of the non-profit Nigerian Girl In STEM, she has spent over a decade mentoring girls, advocating for STEM education, and providing opportunities for young women from underserved communities. She co-founded Hello Dreams, focusing on AI-powered EduTech tools and sustainability solutions.

In 2025, she was named among the Top 100 Africa Future Leaders for her academic excellence and social impact. She currently serves as Vice President of the Oxford University Africa Society (AfriSoc).

Ohaeri describes her Oxford experience as her “world-class era.” Highlights include matriculation in the historic Sheldonian Theatre, where Vice-Chancellor Professor Irene Tracey welcomed new students, wearing traditional sub fusc attire, attending formal dinners, and studying in the Bodleian libraries. She now engages directly with world-renowned academics whose work she previously followed online.

Her studies focus on energy transitions, climate finance, sustainable economic development, policy, and innovation. She aims to bridge global best practices with African realities to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in energy access, decarbonization, and inclusive sustainability.

Ohaeri views her milestone as communal. “I want my Oxford feat to inspire girls and women not to settle for less,” she said. Through her foundation and public advocacy, she encourages young Nigerians to overcome fear, stereotypes, and systemic barriers in STEM.

Her message is clear: “Dreams are often far more possible than they initially appear. Someone has to win the scholarship. Someone has to make history. Why not you?”

 

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AXA Mansard Partners with Lagos DSVA to Raise Awareness on Child Abuse Prevention

by Women Times on

AXA Mansard has joined forces with the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) to intensify efforts in raising awareness and preventing domestic and sexual violence against children through community-driven sensitisation campaigns across Lagos.

This initiative is part of the 2026 AXA Week for Good, themed “Being A Child Shouldn’t Be A Risk,” which aims to enhance public education, promote reporting of abuse cases, and bolster child protection measures at the grassroots level.

As part of the partnership, employee volunteers from AXA Mansard Insurance Plc will engage in door-to-door community outreach in collaboration with the Lagos State DSVA, which will offer technical support, training, and guidance throughout the campaign.

The company stated that the programme builds on the success of its 2025 collaboration with the agency, which focused on school-based interventions to educate children and teachers on domestic and sexual violence.

Chief Marketing Officer of AXA Mansard, Adebola Surakat, explained that this year’s campaign targets families, parents, caregivers, and community leaders, emphasising that statistics show most abuse cases occur within homes and among people familiar to children.

According to her, over 60 per cent of domestic and sexual violence cases involving children are linked to individuals known to them, making community awareness and mobilisation critical in tackling the issue.

She added that the initiative would cover six communities, where volunteers would educate residents on recognising abuse, reporting channels, and safe parenting practices.

Surakat highlighted that AXA Mansard has continued to invest in social advocacy against domestic and sexual violence because organisations have a responsibility to contribute to building safer societies where they operate.

She noted that in 2025, approximately 96 per cent of the company’s employees dedicated at least 30 minutes of their working hours to volunteer activities aimed at raising awareness on domestic and sexual violence.

Executive Secretary of DSVA, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, emphasised that domestic and sexual violence often persists in silence, ignorance, and fear, and stressed the importance of ongoing public education and community involvement.

Vivour-Adeniyi praised AXA Mansard for maintaining its partnership, highlighting that safeguarding children requires a collective effort involving government, the private sector, and members of the public.

She explained that taking advocacy directly into communities would empower parents and caregivers with the knowledge to identify warning signs, protect vulnerable children, and report abuse cases promptly.

AXA Week for Good is the flagship programme under AXA Mansard’s employee volunteering initiative, AXA Hearts in Action, which saw employees contribute over 20,000 volunteer hours in 2025.

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News

Veekee James and Husband Femi Atere Welcome First Child, Baby Girl Eliana Adeife Atere

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nigerian celebrity fashion designer Veekee James and her husband, Femi Atere, have announced the joyful arrival of their first child together, a beautiful baby girl named Eliana Adeife Atere.

 

The couple shared the heartwarming news on social media on Wednesday, with Veekee posting a touching video of her husband cradling their newborn daughter. Baby Eliana was born on May 2, 2026, weighing 3.83kg and measuring 53.5 cm at birth.fe453b

In her announcement, the proud mother expressed deep gratitude, reflecting her strong Christian faith. The name “Eliana” is understood to signify “God has answered,” a sentiment echoed in the family’s celebration of this “divine gift.”

Veekee James, born Ruth Erikan James on June 9, 1995, in Akwa Ibom State, is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, award-winning fashion designer, gospel singer, and entrepreneur. She is the founder of the Veekee James fashion brand and convener of the popular monthly gospel concert, Zion Warship.

The couple announced their relationship in October 2023 and celebrated lavish traditional and white weddings in Akwa Ibom and Lagos in 2024. They marked their second wedding anniversary earlier this year, often sharing their loving relationship on social media.

Fans and well-wishers have flooded social media with congratulatory messages, celebrating the new addition to the Atere family. Many described the news as a beautiful blessing and a testimony of faith.

Congratulations to Veekee James and Femi Atere on the arrival of little Eliana! May her life be filled with love, health, and God’s abundant blessings.

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NewsPolitics

PDP Screens Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for Kogi Central Senatorial Re-Election Bid

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By Prosper Mene

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday screened Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for the Kogi Central Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The screening exercise, held in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, forms part of the party’s internal processes to prepare aspirants for primaries across various positions. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central in the 10th National Assembly, participated fully prepared with all required credentials and supporting documents.

Speaking after the exercise, the senator expressed gratitude to PDP leaders, supporters, and the people of Kogi Central for their sustained confidence in her leadership.

“Today, I travelled to Lokoja to participate in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) screening exercise for aspirants seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections,” she said. “Taking no chances, I arrived fully prepared… I am pleased to have successfully completed the screening exercise as part of the process ahead of the party primaries for the 2027 Kogi Central Senatorial Election under the platform of the PDP.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan described the screening as a vital democratic step and reaffirmed her commitment to purposeful representation. She pledged that, if re-elected for a second term, her agenda would prioritise:

Massive youth and women empowerment programmes.

Expansion of educational opportunities through scholarships and learning support.

Rural road rehabilitation and infrastructure development.

Improved healthcare delivery.

Support for small-scale businesses and entrepreneurs.

Attraction of more federal projects to the district.

Enhanced electricity supply, community security collaboration, job creation, and economic growth across the five local government areas of Kogi Central.

She emphasised that her bid is rooted in service, unity, and inclusive leadership, declaring: “This represents a renewed commitment to quality representation, purposeful leadership, and continued service to the people… For love. For people. For service. 2027.”

Supporters across Kogi Central have welcomed her participation, viewing it as a significant step toward the PDP primaries and the general elections. Her re-election bid is reportedly gaining momentum among party stakeholders, youths, women groups, and grassroots mobilisers.

This comes after the senator recently submitted her Expression of Interest and Nomination forms, positioning herself as a strong contender in what could be a high-stakes contest for the Kogi Central seat.

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