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Lagos Urges New Midwives to Strengthen Maternal Health

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

The Lagos State Government has called on the final cohort of graduates from the Basic Midwifery Programme at the Lagos State College of Nursing (LASCON), Igando, to play a pivotal role in enhancing maternal health services across Nigeria.

The charge was delivered during the institution’s 7th convocation ceremony held on Wednesday, where the 2022 intake cohort celebrated the completion of their rigorous three-year academic and clinical training.

Representing the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr. Tolani Sule, an official urged the new midwives to uphold professionalism in their practice, emphasising their potential to significantly improve maternal and child health outcomes nationwide.

The college’s Provost, Dr. Ogunmuyiwa Ayodeji, commended the graduates for their resilience and dedication throughout the demanding curriculum. She highlighted the ceremony as a reflection of their discipline and sacrifice, encouraging them to embody core values of compassion, competence, and integrity in an era where modern healthcare requires both empathy and continuous learning.

Chairman of the LASCON Governing Council, Professor Olaide Edet, advised the alumni to see their graduation as a foundation for further academic and professional growth. She warned against mediocrity and urged them to serve as proud ambassadors of the institution.

Professor Edet also expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Lagos State School of Nursing Alumni for their ongoing investments in nursing education infrastructure and curriculum development.

The event featured the presentation of awards to students who excelled in various academic categories.

Stakeholders at the ceremony reiterated the need for a renewed commitment to the noble principles of nursing, focusing on appearance, conduct, and accountability. They noted that while Lagos has relatively better maternal and child health statistics compared to other regions, continuous efforts are required to address persistent challenges.

The Lagos State College of Nursing remains committed to producing ethically grounded and globally competitive nursing and midwifery professionals, contributing to the state’s broader goals of improving healthcare delivery and reducing maternal mortality rates.

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Zamfara Unveils Safe Delivery Initiative to Boost Maternal Health

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By Prosper Mene

The Zamfara State Ministry of Health has launched the Safe Delivery Initiative, aimed at strengthening services across the state and reducing birth complications.

The initiative was officially unveiled on Thursday at the Unguwar Dallatu Primary Healthcare Centre in Gusau, the state capital.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Nafisa Maradun, represented by the Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr Hussaini Yakubu, described the programme as a pilot project starting with four health facilities in Gusau and Maru Local Government Areas. Plans are underway to expand it to 23 facilities across all 14 LGAs in the state.

“This initiative focuses on upgrading delivery rooms, enhancing antenatal and postnatal care, equipping facilities with essential drugs, and ensuring the presence of skilled birth attendants,” Dr Yakubu said.

He emphasised that the Safe Delivery Initiative aligns with Governor Dauda Lawal’s “Rescue Mission Agenda,” which prioritises reforms in the health sector to improve the wellbeing of citizens.

The launch comes on the heels of Zamfara’s recent recognition as the top-performing state in the North-West zone at the Primary Health Care Leadership Challenge, an achievement credited to sustained investments in primary healthcare.

Dr Maradun thanked key partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), Acasus, International Rescue Committee, Premier Urgency International, and UNICEF, for their support. She urged continued collaboration to reduce complications during childbirth and rebuild community trust in the healthcare system.

The State WHO Coordinator, Dr Raji Mukhtar, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting the Zamfara Government and expressed readiness for further partnerships.

This initiative is expected to significantly contribute to lowering maternal and newborn mortality rates in Zamfara, where access to quality healthcare remains a challenge in many rural areas.

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Senator Ireti Kingibe Formally Joins ADC, Sets Sights on AMAC Victory Ahead of FCT Area Council Polls

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By Prosper Mene 

Senator Ireti Kingibe, the lawmaker representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the National Assembly, has officially defected from the Labour Party to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The move, formalized today at her Wuse Ward in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), signals a major boost for the ADC as it gears up for the February 21, 2026, FCT area council elections.

After receiving her ADC membership card, Senator Kingibe addressed party supporters, declaring that the defection marks the start of a determined push to capture all six FCT area councils, beginning with AMAC, her home base.

“We have a battle and a lot of work ahead of us. We have six area councils that must be ours. It starts with AMAC. AMAC is my local government, Wuse is my ward, that’s why we are taking the card here today,” she said.

The ceremony also featured the unveiling of ADC candidates for chairmanship and councillorship positions across the FCT, with party flags presented to signify campaign readiness.

Kingibe, who had announced her intention to leave the Labour Party in July, described the switch to ADC as a strategic realignment ahead of broader political contests, including the 2027 general elections. Political observers note that her joining makes her the only serving senator in the ADC, potentially reshaping opposition dynamics in the nation’s capital.

The event drew senior ADC officials, election candidates, supporters, and media representatives, underscoring the party’s growing momentum in the FCT. With elections just months away, Kingibe’s defection is seen as a calculated effort to challenge the status quo and deliver grassroots change to residents.

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CAN Slams Nollywood Film ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’, Demands Apology from Producer Ini Edo

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By Prosper Mene 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned the title of the newly released Nollywood movie A Very Dirty Christmas, describing it as “offensive, insensitive, and disrespectful” to the Christian faith.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association expressed deep concern over the use of the word “dirty” in connection with Christmas, a season that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and symbolises purity, peace, love, and redemption.

“Linking such a holy celebration with the word ‘dirty’ diminishes its spiritual meaning and reduces a solemn religious observance to something crude and sensational,” the statement read.

CAN emphasised that while it supports creative freedom in the film industry, such expression must be exercised with responsibility and sensitivity, especially in Nigeria’s multi-religious society.

The body questioned the approval process, calling on the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to explain how the title was cleared for public exhibition during the Christmas season. It also urged Nollywood stakeholders, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria, to establish clearer guidelines on the use of religious themes.

Specifically addressing the film’s producer, acclaimed actress Ini Edo, CAN urged her to “show sensitivity” to the concerns raised by the Christian community, reconsider the title, and issue a public apology.

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Influencer Slams ‘Exorbitant’ Lagos Beach House Prices Amid Detty December Festivities

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By Prosper Mene

As Nigeria’s vibrant “Detty December” season kicks into high gear, drawing thousands of diaspora Nigerians and tourists to Lagos for concerts, parties, and beach escapes, complaints about skyrocketing accommodation costs are mounting. A lady (Raye)  has taken to social media to slam the “exorbitant” prices of beach houses, highlighting the growing frustration over price gouging during the festive period.

The criticism comes amid a broader backlash against inflated rates for short-term rentals, including luxury beach properties in areas like Elegushi, Oniru, Tarkwa Bay, and Ilashe. Popular private beach houses and resorts, known for their oceanfront views, pools, and exclusive vibes, are reportedly charging premiums that many deem unjustifiable given Lagos’ infrastructure challenges.

Industry observers note that nightly rates for short-let apartments and beachfront properties have surged dramatically this year. While off-season rates for upscale accommodations hover around ₦120,000 to ₦200,000 per night, December bookings are pushing ₦220,000 to ₦300,000 or higher, with some premium beach villas demanding even more for group stays.

Travel experts warn that such hikes risk pricing Lagos out of its own festive season. Gbenga Onitilo, Managing Director of Travelden, recently cautioned that unchecked overpricing in hospitality could drive visitors to cheaper alternatives in Ghana or Rwanda, threatening the long-term appeal of Detty December.

Influencer Laura Ikeji has also weighed in on the greed fueling seasonal inflation, extending her critique beyond services like hair braiding to broader exploitation of returnees. “We are greedy,” she stated in a viral video, predicting that excessive charges could “ruin” the beloved tradition.

Despite the complaints, Detty December remains a cultural powerhouse, boosting Lagos’ economy with millions in revenue from tourism, nightlife, and events. Beaches continue to buzz with parties, but affordability concerns are prompting some visitors to opt for hotels offering better value through amenities like daily cleaning and reliable power.

As the festivities continue, stakeholders call for balanced pricing to sustain the “detty” spirit that makes December in Lagos unforgettable, without leaving revelers feeling fleeced.

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Ajimobi’s Widow Reflects on Husband’s Enduring Legacy, Years Shared

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By Prosper Mene

Chief (Mrs.) Florence Ajimobi, widow of the late former Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has opened up about the profound impact of her husband’s legacy more than five years after his passing, describing their over 40 years together as the foundation of enduring love, resilience, and public service.

In a poignant reflection marking what would have been another milestone in their shared life, Mrs. Ajimobi spoke of the late governor, affectionately known as the “Koseleri” of Oyo politics, as her greatest supporter, mentor, and strength. “He spoilt me with love and spoiled me with wisdom,” she recalled. “We married in 1980 after just six months of courtship, and those years were the best of my life. He was not just my husband; he was my friend, my father figure, my everything.”

The late Senator Ajimobi, who served as Oyo State’s first two-term governor from 2011 to 2019, is widely credited with transforming the state through infrastructure development, urban renewal, and educational initiatives, earning him the moniker “Architect of Modern Oyo.” His widow emphasized that his vision continues to thrive through ongoing projects like the Abiola Ajimobi Technical University and the Senator Abiola Ajimobi Foundation.

“This achievement is a testament to the fact that the legacy of Senator Abiola Ajimobi is alive, well, and thriving,” Mrs. Ajimobi recently stated while celebrating a student’s international success from the university her husband founded. “It is built on an unshakable belief in the potential of our youth and purposeful leadership.”

Through the foundation’s initiatives,  including the annual roundtable discussions, food banks, healthcare support for cancer and maternal care, and the ABC House for vulnerable children, Mrs. Ajimobi has steadfastly preserved her husband’s philanthropic spirit. “He came, saw, and conquered,” she said in earlier tributes. “His legacies in Oyo State and Nigeria will forever live on. I miss him deeply, but I know he would want me to be strong and uphold what he built.”

Despite personal challenges, including the tragic loss of their eldest daughter earlier this year, Mrs. Ajimobi has emerged as a pillar of quiet strength, continuing community programs via the Senator Abiola Ajimobi Resource Centre and recently earning recognition with a presidential ambassadorial nomination.

As Oyo State reflects on the late governor’s contributions on his posthumous birthday today, his widow’s words resonate: “What profits a man if he lives to 90 but cannot make heaven? Abiola made heaven and is at peace with God. That is my greatest consolation.”

The Ajimobi family and political associates continue to honor his memory, affirming that through dedication and faith, his enduring legacy illuminates the path forward for generations.

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FIFA Unveils Best Women’s 11 for 2025

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By Prosper Mene

In a ceremony at the Fairmont Katara Hall in Doha, FIFA has revealed The Best FIFA Women’s 11 for 2025, showcasing the pinnacle of women’s football excellence from the 2024/25 season.

The star-studded lineup, voted on by national team coaches and captains, journalists, and fans worldwide, is dominated by players from Spain (seven) and England (four), reflecting the nations’ continued supremacy in the sport. Spain’s La Roja and England’s Lionesses, fresh off retaining their European Championship title, provided the bulk of the selections, with FC Barcelona contributing an impressive six players.

The team, covering performances from August 11, 2024, to August 2, 2025, is presented in a classic 4-3-3 formation:

Goalkeeper:

Hannah Hampton (Chelsea FC / England), The newly crowned Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper anchored the defense with her commanding presence.

Defenders:

Lucy Bronze (Chelsea FC / England) – Right-back

Leah Williamson (Arsenal FC / England) – Center-back

Irene Paredes (FC Barcelona / Spain) – Center-back

Ona Batlle (FC Barcelona / Spain) – Left-back

Midfielders:

Aitana Bonmatí (FC Barcelona / Spain) – Central midfielder

Patri Guijarro (FC Barcelona / Spain) – Central midfielder

Clàudia Pina (FC Barcelona / Spain) – Central midfieldere46daa

Forwards:

Mariona Caldentey (Arsenal FC / Spain) – Right forward

Alessia Russo (Arsenal FC / England) – Striker

Alexia Putellas (FC Barcelona / Spain) – Left forward0f1ac3

Barcelona’s dominance is unmistakable, with Batlle, Paredes, Guijarro, Bonmatí, Pina, and Putellas all earning spots , a testament to the club’s success in the UEFA Women’s Champions League and domestic competitions. Arsenal bridged the gap with three inclusions, including Caldentey, who joined the Gunners from Barcelona in 2024, while Chelsea celebrated two: Hampton and Bronze.

Adding to the Spanish joy, Aitana Bonmatí secured The Best FIFA Women’s Player award for the third consecutive year, capping off another masterful season for club and country.

England’s Sarina Wiegman was also honored as Best Women’s Coach.

FIFA highlighted the lineup as a celebration of “England and Spain stars dominating The Best Women’s 11,” underscoring the global impact of European powerhouses in women’s football.

The Best FIFA Football Awards 2025 continue to recognize the sport’s elite, with further honors including the FIFA Puskás Award for the best goal and individual accolades across men’s and women’s categories.

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Remi Tinubu Empowers 250 Elderly Citizens in Ekiti State Through Renewed Hope Initiative

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By Prosper Mene

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has extended her Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) to Ekiti State, empowering 250 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 and above with financial grants to enhance their well-being and dignity during the festive season.

Under the third edition of the nationwide programme themed “Finding Joy in Old Age,” each beneficiary in Ekiti received a cash grant of ₦200,000, contributing to a total disbursement of ₦50 million in the state. The initiative, which runs simultaneously across all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and includes veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association, aims to support 9,500 elderly Nigerians nationwide with a total of ₦1.9 billion.

Represented by the Wife of the Ekiti State Governor and RHI State Coordinator, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, Senator Tinubu emphasized the scheme’s goal of recognizing the invaluable contributions of senior citizens to nation-building. “This social investment programme embodies our ongoing effort to ensure that our elderly citizens live with dignity and joy in a nation that genuinely cares for its own,” she stated in her address.

The First Lady highlighted that since 2023, the Renewed Hope Initiative has made it a tradition to celebrate and support the elderly every December, reassuring them that they are valued and not forgotten. Beneficiaries also received additional support, including food items and health checks in similar programmes across states.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, commended the initiative for complementing his administration’s Shared Prosperity agenda, noting its direct impact on vulnerable groups. Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji expressed gratitude for the gesture, describing it as a timely relief that aligns with efforts to prioritize the welfare of the elderly.

The Renewed Hope Initiative continues to focus on social investment, economic empowerment, health, and inclusion, complementing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda to uplift all Nigerians.

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Build more correctional facilities, Ogun CJ urges govt

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By Prosper Mene

The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has called on the state government to construct additional correctional facilities as a lasting solution to the severe overcrowding plaguing the state’s five custodial centres.

Justice Dipeolu made the appeal on Monday during a jail delivery exercise at the Oba and Ibara Correctional Centres in Abeokuta, where she freed 29 inmates – 23 from the New Abeokuta Custodial Centre in Oba and six from the Old Abeokuta Custodial Centre in Ibara.

Speaking to journalists after the exercise, the Chief Judge emphasised that periodic jail deliveries and other judicial interventions, while helpful, are insufficient to address the root cause of congestion.

“The jail delivery exercise alone is not enough. We need more correctional facilities, and only the government can make that happen,” she said, adding that crime rates are rising daily, leading to heavier caseloads for judges , with some handling at least 300 cases each.

She lamented the highly congested state of the facilities, noting that a recent distress message from the Ogun State Controller of Correctional Centres highlighted the urgency of the situation.

Justice Dipeolu stressed the need for broader reforms, including regular jail deliveries, non-custodial sentences for minor offences, restitution to victims, and other measures to safeguard the justice system’s integrity.

The latest releases bring the total number of inmates freed under her administration’s decongestion efforts to over 300 this year alone, including 187 from a special intervention at Sagamu Correctional Centre last month, 100 in May, and others in prior exercises.

She urged the released inmates to reform and avoid reoffending, warning that future opportunities for clemency may not be available.

The Chief Judge also announced a forthcoming Special Intervention Week at the Ilaro Correctional Centre from December 15 to 23, 2025, to review 235 cases.

Overcrowding remains a nationwide challenge in Nigeria’s correctional system, contributing to security risks and poor conditions, as noted in recent reports.

These images illustrate the ongoing challenges and efforts to address overcrowding in Ogun State’s correctional facilities.

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Temi Otedola and Mr Eazi Reveal the Stress Behind Their Multi-Destination Weddings: “It Was Insane”

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By Prosper Mene

Nigerian power couple Temi Otedola, daughter of billionaire businessman Femi Otedola, and Afrobeats star Mr Eazi (Oluwatosin Ajibade) have opened up about the intense challenges and disagreements they faced while planning their extravagant triple wedding celebrations earlier this year.

In a candid recent interview, the newlyweds admitted that organizing three destination weddings in just three months—across Monaco, Dubai, and Iceland—was far more demanding than they anticipated. “We did three weddings within three months. That was insane,” Temi shared, highlighting the logistical nightmare of pulling off multiple high-profile events in quick succession.

The couple originally planned a simple, private court wedding in Nigeria for privacy reasons. However, concerns about publicity led to heated debates. One idea was to have court officials conduct the ceremony in their living room, but disagreements arose, Mr Eazi was uncomfortable with it, while Temi found it appealing. They considered the UK but ultimately chose Monaco for its sentimental value, describing it as their “Euro base” and a calm, distraction-free spot.

Mr Eazi also expressed surprise at the “mountain of administration” involved in marriage, far beyond just signing papers.

Despite the stress, the weddings were a global sensation:

May 2025: Intimate civil ceremony in Monaco, on the meaningful date of Mr Eazi’s late mother’s birthday.

July 2025: Vibrant Yoruba traditional wedding at the Otedola family home in Dubai, complete with cultural elements like performances by King Sunny Ade.

August 2025: Dreamy white wedding in Iceland, at the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, inspired by the country’s natural beauty.

The couple even teased a potential fourth ceremony, with Mr Eazi joking, “And we have one more to go.”

Fans have praised their unconventional approach, blending rich Nigerian heritage with global glamour.

Temi and Mr Eazi’s love story, which began in 2017 and led to a 2022 proposal, continues to captivate, proving that even fairy-tale weddings come with real-world hurdles.

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