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South Africa’s Defence Minister Steps in as Acting President During Ramaphosa’s Overseas Trip

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By Prosper Mene 

 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has named Defence Minister Angie Motshekga as Acting President of South Africa while he travels to Ireland for a G20 meeting.

The appointment ensures smooth governance as both Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who is on a peace mission in South Sudan, are out of the country.

Motshekga, a seasoned ANC leader and former educator, took on the role today under constitutional rules that allow the president to delegate duties. She will manage government affairs, including Cabinet meetings and urgent decisions, until Ramaphosa returns next week. This isn’t her first time as Acting President, she filled the role twice before in 2024 and 2025.

Ramaphosa is in Dublin to discuss trade, climate, and development, representing South Africa’s growing global role. Meanwhile, Mashatile is in Juba to support South Sudan’s peace process.

Motshekga, who has led the Defence Ministry since July 2024, is a trusted figure overseeing South Africa’s military, including peacekeeping missions.

The move highlights South Africa’s stable leadership within its coalition government. “Motshekga’s experience keeps things steady at home,” said political analyst Dr. Lwazi Mvovo. With Ramaphosa pushing for international investment and Mashatile aiding regional peace, Motshekga’s temporary role ensures the country runs smoothly.

Motshekga’s appointment shows confidence in the nation’s democratic systems. Her steady leadership in the defence sector, including managing budget challenges and supporting troops abroad, makes her a fitting choice to guide the country during this brief transition. The Presidency expressed gratitude for her service, emphasizing South Africa’s commitment to continuity and progress on both domestic and global fronts.

 

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Nearly 2 Million Young Women Worldwide Battle HIV, Demanding Urgent Global Action

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By Prosper Mene 

A recent revelation highlighting the uneven toll of the HIV epidemic, an estimated 1.9 million young women aged 15 to 24 are living with HIV globally, according to data from the Adolescent and Youth Health (AHY) initiative.

This figure, drawn from recent UNAIDS reports, underscores a persistent gender disparity in the AIDS crisis, where adolescent girls and young women account for nearly two-thirds of new infections among young people despite comprising just a quarter of the global population in this age group.

The statistic emerges from UNAIDS’ latest global HIV fact sheet, which paints a broader picture of progress tempered by profound challenges. As of the end of 2024, 40.8 million people worldwide were living with HIV, with women and girls representing more than half, approximately 20.2 million of that total. Yet, the burden falls disproportionately on the young: in sub-Saharan Africa, the epicenter of the epidemic, young women are up to 14 times more likely to acquire HIV than their male peers, driven by factors like unequal access to education, economic vulnerability, gender-based violence, and limited healthcare services.”This is not just a health crisis; it’s a human rights emergency,” said Dr. Elena Ramirez, a senior advisor with UNAIDS’ gender equality program. “These 1.9 million young women are our daughters, sisters, and future leaders.

Without targeted interventions, empowering girls with education, PrEP access, and stigma-free testing, we risk derailing the global goal to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.”The numbers tell a story of fragile gains.

New HIV infections have dropped 40% since 2010, from 2.2 million to about 1.3 million annually, thanks to expanded antiretroviral therapy (ART) reaching 31.6 million people by late 2024. AIDS-related deaths have plummeted 69% from their 2004 peak, with 630,000 lives lost in 2023. However, funding shortfalls loom large: only $18.7 billion was available for the AIDS response in low- and middle-income countries last year, 17% below the $21.9 billion needed annually to sustain momentum.

Experts point to success stories for hope. In Eastern and Southern Africa, where 85% of young women living with HIV reside, community-led programs like DREAMS (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe) have reduced new infections by 40% among participants through layered prevention, combining condoms, HIV testing, and economic support. Yet, gaps persist: about 5.3 million people globally remain undiagnosed, and young women in key populations, such as those in sex work or injecting drugs, face HIV prevalence rates as high as 13%.

As world leaders gather for the upcoming UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting on HIV in 2026, advocates are calling for a “youth-first” strategy. This includes scaling up self-testing kits tailored for young women, integrating HIV services into sexual and reproductive health clinics, and addressing intersecting inequalities like child marriage, which affects over 700 million women alive today who wed before 18.

The path forward demands collective resolve. “We’ve halved infections and deaths before,” Ramirez added. “With investment in these young women, we can finish the job.” For now, the 1.9 million voices remind us: the fight against HIV is far from won, but it’s one we can and must win together.

 

 

 

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Enugu State Government Unveils Bold Initiatives to Slash Maternal and Infant Mortality Rates

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By Prosper Mene

In a push to combat one of Nigeria’s most pressing public health challenges, the Enugu State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating maternal and newborn mortality through targeted policies, infrastructure upgrades, and community-focused interventions.

Prof. Emmanuel Obi, the state’s Commissioner for Health, highlighted these efforts during the commemoration of the 2025 Safe Motherhood Day, themed “Innovating for Safer Birth; A Collective Responsibility to Crash Maternal Mortality.” The event, held to align with the state’s broader health programs, underscores a multi-pronged strategy addressing preventable causes such as hemorrhage, severe anemia, sepsis, preeclampsia, obstructed labor, and unsafe abortions.

The state’s ambitious rollout includes the construction and equipping of 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across all 260 wards, ensuring round-the-clock access to quality maternal care, including staff quarters and renewable energy sources for reliability.

These facilities are part of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration’s response to inherited high maternal mortality rates exceeding the national average of 512 deaths per 100,000 live births. Early results are promising: In 2024, Enugu achieved a dramatic over 400% reduction in maternal mortality, a testament to the efficacy of these interventions, though officials emphasize that more work is needed to reach zero tolerance.

Complementing government efforts, First Lady Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah launched the “Mama Care Initiative” through her pet project, the Custos Care Foundation. This program has enrolled 1,701 expectant mothers from across the state’s 17 local government areas in a one-year health insurance scheme, providing comprehensive prenatal, delivery, and postnatal support, along with financial aid and foodstuffs.

“Our vision is to significantly reduce maternal and infant mortality in our state. It is unacceptable that in this era, women should lose their lives giving birth or that infants should not survive their first days due to preventable complications,” Mrs. Mbah stated, urging beneficiaries to utilize professional care at health facilities.

These state-level actions align with national goals, including the Federal Government’s pledge to cut maternal mortality by 20% and under-five mortality by 15% by 2027, supported by initiatives like the distribution of professional kits to midwives in Enugu.

The upcoming Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Week will roll out simultaneous services at public facilities statewide, offering a critical opportunity for widespread implementation.

Enugu’s initiatives signal a hopeful path forward, positioning the state as a potential leader in maternal health innovation in West Africa.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Senate President Akpabio Champions Reserved Seats for Women, Ties Gender Equity to Nigeria’s Prosperity

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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has thrown his weight behind the push for greater female representation in Nigerian politics, declaring, “Where women rise, nations thrive.”

In a powerful statement shared on his official X handle (@SenGodswill ) on Monday, Akpabio underscored the transformative potential of women’s leadership, aligning his advocacy with the ongoing campaign for the Reserved Seats for Women Bill in the National Assembly.

The Reserved Seats for Women Bill, a key component of Nigeria’s constitutional reform efforts, proposes the creation of 37 additional seats in the Senate, one for each state and the Federal Capital Territory—and 37 in the House of Representatives, exclusively for women.

This legislative push aims to boost female participation in decision-making.

Akpabio’s endorsement adds momentum to the bill, which has already garnered support from prominent figures, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, and Prof. Martina Yilwatda, the APC Chairman’s wife and Patron of the Women’s Leadership Network.

Speaking to the bill’s potential, Akpabio emphasized that empowering women is not just a matter of equity but a catalyst for national progress. “When women are given the opportunity to lead, they bring unique perspectives that drive innovation, peace, and development,” he stated, citing global examples where gender-inclusive governance has led to stronger economies and social stability.

His comments resonate with recent public hearings and advocacy campaigns, including those led by women’s groups like the Women’s Leadership Network, which have rallied across Nigeria to demand the bill’s passage before the 2027 elections.

The Senate President’s advocacy follows a groundswell of support from women leaders and grassroots organizations. In Jos, Prof. Yilwatda recently linked the bill’s success to President Tinubu’s reelection bid, urging women to back the APC as a party committed to gender-friendly policies. Similarly, groups like the Association of Women Traditional Title Holders in Nigeria have praised Tinubu and Ganduje for their “gender-friendly leadership,” framing the bill as a critical step toward inclusive governance.

Despite the growing momentum, the bill faces challenges, including debates over its implementation and potential resistance from some lawmakers.

Akpabio, remains optimistic, noting that the bill’s passage would mark a “turning point” for Nigeria’s democracy, fostering policies that prioritize education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for all.

With the National Assembly set to deliberate further on the bill, Akpabio’s words signal a commitment to prioritizing gender equity as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s development agenda.

 

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APC Chairman’s Wife Endorses Reserved Seats for Women in National Assembly Amid Push for Gender Inclusivity

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Prof. Martina Yilwatda, wife of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman and Patron of the Women’s Leadership Network, has voiced strong support for the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, urging its swift passage in the National Assembly to boost female representation in Nigerian politics.

Speaking to hundreds of women from her support group in Jos, Yilwatda linked the bill’s approval to the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027, emphasizing his commitment to gender inclusivity.

The bill proposes creating additional seats exclusively for women: 37 in the Senate—one for each state and the Federal Capital Territory and 37 in the House of Representatives.

Yilwatda highlighted the growing momentum behind the legislation, noting endorsements from key figures including the Deputy Speaker of the House, the Speaker, the Senate President, the APC Chairman, and President Tinubu himself. “This group was one of the many groups that joined other women to emphasize the need for reserved seats for women. The good news is that this has gotten very massive support,” she said.

Her advocacy is coming as Nigeria battles with low female participation in governance, where women hold less than 5% of seats in the National Assembly.

Yilwatda called on women nationwide to back Tinubu, portraying a vote for the APC as essential for progress and the bill’s eventual assent.

Support group members, including Deborah J.H. Oriaku and Princess Nikky Onyeri from the Association of Women Traditional Title Holders in Nigeria, praised Tinubu and the APC Chairman as “gender-friendly leaders” poised to meet women’s expectations.

The Reserved Seats Bill, aims to address historical imbalances and promote inclusive governance, drawing inspiration from countries like Rwanda, where women hold over 60% of parliamentary seats. This development aligns with recent public hearings and campaigns pushing for the bill’s adoption before the upcoming legislative vote.

Yilwatda’s stance adds to voices from APC women leaders and advocates, signaling a potential shift toward greater equity in Nigeria’s democracy as the nation eyes the 2027 elections.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Unveils N2.55 Billion Sanitary Pad Distribution Initiative for Schoolgirls

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched the nationwide “Flow with Confidence” initiative under her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), committing N2.55 billion to distribute a one-year supply of disposable sanitary pads to 370,000 schoolgirls in rural communities across the country’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

‎Speaking at the launch event in Gombe on Thursday, Tinubu emphasized the initiative’s role in combating period poverty and ensuring girls do not miss school due to lack of access to menstrual hygiene products. “In today’s modern world, no girl should have to miss school because she cannot afford sanitary products,” she stated, highlighting how many rural schoolgirls resort to unsafe alternatives or drop out altogether, perpetuating cycles of inequality. ‎

‎ The pads, procured from Uniglory Nigeria Limited in Ikorodu, Lagos, will be distributed freely through state first ladies and RHI coordinators, with each state and the FCT receiving 10,000 packs targeting vulnerable girls. ‎

‎Tinubu, who was represented by state first ladies at various simultaneous events including in Lagos and Imo, stressed the health benefits of disposable pads over reusable options, which she described as potentially dangerous for young girls’ reproductive well-being.

‎ ‎She warned against any diversion or sale of the pads, urging traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community heads to monitor distribution to ensure they reach intended beneficiaries.

‎ ‎The First Lady also called on corporate organizations and philanthropists to support scaling the program, noting that full nationwide coverage could require up to N600 billion.

‎The initiative is in synce with broader efforts to promote girl-child education and menstrual health, addressing a critical barrier where girls miss up to several school days monthly.

‎Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa and Coordinating Minister for Health Prof. Ali Pate pledged federal support to expand its reach, while Gombe Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya commended Tinubu’s interventions in health, education, and empowerment.

‎ ‎ During her visit, Tinubu was honored with the traditional title of Sarauniya Yakin Kumo (Queen Warrior of Kumo) by the Emir of Akko.

‎Attendees, including schoolgirls and officials, hailed the program as transformative. “This will restore confidence and protect our educational journey,” one beneficiary shared, echoing Tinubu’s vision of empowering girls through dignity and access.

‎The launch coincides with ongoing RHI efforts, which have already extended similar support to 12 states at a cost exceeding N2 billion.

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First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Urges Nigerians to Champion a Positive National Image ‎

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to take an active role in reshaping the country’s global image by promoting its achievements and countering negative narratives.

‎Speaking at the National Youth Empowerment Summit in Abuja on Thursday, she emphasized that collective action is key to showcasing Nigeria’s progress in innovation, culture, and community development.

‎Addressing a vibrant crowd of youth leaders, entrepreneurs, and diaspora representatives, Tinubu underscored the power of storytelling in nation-building. “Our image as a nation begins with us,” she said during her keynote address. “We must share the good news, our advancements in technology, the creativity of our artists, and the resilience of our communities, rather than focusing solely on challenges.” She urged Nigerians to use platforms like social media to highlight success stories, from local startups gaining international traction to cultural exports like Nollywood and Afrobeat music.

‎Tinubu spotlighted her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), a flagship program that has empowered over 500,000 women and youth through skills training, micro-grants, and entrepreneurship support.

‎She shared inspiring examples of RHI beneficiaries, such as women in Lagos who have scaled handmade craft businesses to export markets and young coders in Abuja launching globally competitive tech startups. “These are the stories we need to amplify,” she said, calling on Nigerians abroad to invest in similar initiatives to strengthen Nigeria’s economic and cultural presence.

‎The First Lady tied her message to President Bola Tinubu’s “Nigeria First” policy, which emphasizes economic self-reliance and global cultural diplomacy. She noted that Nigerians in the diaspora have already boosted trade ties with countries like Canada, Ethiopia, and the United States, contributing over $20 billion in remittances annually, according to recent Central Bank of Nigeria data. “When our brothers and sisters abroad succeed, they lift Nigeria’s name,” she said. “Let’s build on that by supporting projects back home.”

‎“The First Lady’s call is a wake-up call for us all,” said Aisha Ibrahim, a summit attendee and tech entrepreneur. “We have so much to be proud of, and it’s time we told that story.”The summit, which continues through Friday, features workshops on digital storytelling, entrepreneurship, and cultural advocacy. For more information on the Renewed Hope Initiative or to contribute to the National Library project, visit the Office of the First Lady’s website.

‎Tinubu’s message has sparked renewed hope, with many seeing it as a crucial step toward redefining Nigeria’s place on the world stage.

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Ogun Commissioner Urges Women to Back Female Candidates for 2027 Elections ‎ ‎

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Hon. Adijat Motunrayo Adeleye-Oladapo, Ogun State’s Commissioner for Women Affairs, has called on Nigerian women to support female candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.

‎Speaking at the Voice of Women Conference in Abuja, she stressed that women must unite now to boost female representation in politics.

‎During her talk, titled “Breaking Barriers through the Power of Community,” Adeleye-Oladapo urged women to start mobilizing immediately, not wait for campaign season.

‎She highlighted the Nigeria for Women Project, which has empowered rural women in Ogun State to form groups, access land, and gain leadership skills. These efforts have already helped women support candidates in local elections.”Financial independence makes politics easier,” she said, encouraging women to work together across urban and rural lines.

‎She dismissed the idea that women don’t support each other and called for mentorship to uplift female leaders.

‎The commissioner’s message aligns with growing efforts to increase women’s roles in Nigerian politics.

‎Initiatives like the Nigerian Women Trust Fund and training programs in states like Kwara are helping women prepare for 2027.

‎Adeleye-Oladapo believes that even small gains, like electing 20 more women to local posts, can create a big impact.

‎Her speech has inspired women’s groups, who are now pledging to spread the message.

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EFCC 𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 ₦𝟐𝟒𝟎.𝟓𝐦 𝐟𝐫𝐚𝐮𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐛𝐮𝐣𝐚

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned ‎Ene Queen Bamaiyi before a Federal High Court in Abuja on charges related to a massive ₦240.5 million fraud, authorities confirmed today.

‎The case underscores the commission’s ongoing crackdown on financial scams that have plagued investors and businesses across Nigeria.

‎The defendant, whose name has not been publicly disclosed pending further court proceedings, appeared before Justice at the Maitama Division of the Federal High Court.

‎She faces multiple counts of obtaining money under false pretenses, money laundering, and conspiracy, according to EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale.

‎The charges come from an elaborate scheme allegedly orchestrated between late 2023 and mid-2025, where the woman is accused of luring victims with promises of high-yield investments in foreign exchange trading and real estate development.

‎According to the EFCC’s investigation, the suspect posed as a legitimate investment broker, convincing at least five victims – including small business owners and retirees – to part with their savings totaling ₦240,545,000. Funds were reportedly transferred to multiple bank accounts controlled by the defendant and her accomplices, under the guise of “guaranteed returns” of up to 30% within 90 days.

‎However, investigators claim the money was siphoned off for personal use, including luxury purchases and transfers to offshore accounts.”

‎The scam exploited the economic hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians seeking quick financial relief,” Oyewale stated in a press release. “This is a stark reminder that fraudsters thrive on desperation, but the EFCC remains committed to dismantling these networks.”The arraignment follows months of undercover operations by the EFCC’s Abuja Zonal Command, which traced the illicit transactions through digital forensics and victim testimonies.

Sources within the commission revealed that the probe began after one victim, a 58-year-old trader from Kaduna, reported losing ₦45 million in early 2024. This led to the recovery of ₦32 million in frozen assets so far, with efforts underway to restitute affected parties.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to all seven counts read against her during the brief court session. Her counsel, applied for bail, citing her lack of prior criminal record and cooperation with investigators.

However, prosecution lead, EFCC counsel Fatima Mustapha, opposed the application, arguing the flight risk and potential for witness tampering.

‎Justice adjourned the matter to October 15 for ruling on the bail application and fixed November 10 as the commencement date for full trial.

‎EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede has vowed to intensify efforts against “advance fee fraud” commonly known as “419” scams which cost Nigerians billions annually .

 

 

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Tems Makes History as First Nigerian Woman to Sell 10 Million Units in the US ‎ ‎

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By Prosper Mene

‎Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, known as Tems, has become the first female Nigerian artist to sell over 10 million units of a single in the United States.

‎The milestone comes from her hit song “Wait For U,” a collaboration with Future and Drake, as confirmed by Chart Data on Tuesday.

‎Released in 2022, “Wait For U” topped the Billboard Hot 100 and won a Grammy for Best Melodic Rap Performance in 2023. The song’s massive success, driven by Tems’ soulful voice, has earned it a rare RIAA Diamond certification for 10 million units sold, including streams and downloads.

‎Tems is now the second African artist to achieve this, following Wizkid’s “One Dance” in 2022.

‎Tems has also sold millions of units with other hits like “Essence” (5x Platinum), “Free Mind” (2x Platinum), and “Higher” (Platinum), making her the best-selling female African artist in the US.

‎She broke another record earlier this year as the first African woman to surpass 1 billion Spotify streams.The Lagos-born star, who rose to fame with “Essence” alongside Wizkid in 2020, has won BET Awards, NAACP Image Awards, and a Soul Train Music Award.

‎Fans on social media are thrilled, with posts like “Tems is unstoppable! Nigeria to the world!” going viral.Tems is currently on her 2025-2026 world tour, performing sold-out shows in cities like Nairobi and Los Angeles.

‎Her historic achievement is a proud moment for Nigeria and a win for African women in music.

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