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‎Tinubu Stabilizes Nigeria’s Economy, Says Okonjo-Iweala

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎The Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its economic reforms, stating that they have successfully stabilized Nigeria’s economy.

‎Speaking to journalists after a closed-door meeting with the President at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, Okonjo-Iweala described the reforms as “steps in the right direction” and credited Tinubu’s team for laying a foundation for future economic growth.“We think that the President and his team have worked hard to stabilize the economy, and you cannot really improve an economy unless it’s stable,” Okonjo-Iweala said. “So, he has to be given credit for the stability of the economy.”

‎She highlighted the importance of stability as a prerequisite for economic progress, noting that the reforms have set Nigeria on a path toward recovery.

‎ ‎However, the WTO chief emphasized that the next critical steps involve fostering economic growth and implementing robust social safety nets to alleviate the hardships faced by many Nigerians due to these reforms. “What is needed next is growth. We now need to grow the economy, and we need to put in social safety nets so that people who are feeling the pinch of the reforms can also have some support to weather the hardship,” she stated.

‎ ‎Her remarks come in the context of significant policy changes under Tinubu’s administration, including the removal of fuel subsidies in May 2023, which led to a sharp increase in fuel prices and subsequent rises in the cost of living. Despite these challenges, she urged the government to focus on job creation and poverty reduction through targeted policies. “How do we build social safety nets to help Nigerians cushion the hardship they are feeling? Then, how do we grow the economy so we can create more jobs and put more money in people’s pockets? These are issues we discussed with Mr. President,” she added.

Okonjo-Iweala’s endorsement underscores the potential of Tinubu’s reforms while highlighting the urgent need for measures to support vulnerable citizens.

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‎Super Falcons Still Await $100,000 Reward Promised by FG, Ajibade Reveals ‎

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has publicly expressed frustration over the Federal Government’s failure to fulfill its promise of a $100,000 reward for each player following their triumphant victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

‎While speaking in an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, Ajibade disclosed that the team has not received the pledged cash reward, alongside other promised incentives, including three-bedroom apartments and national honours of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). “We have not received our money, but hopefully, it would be paid. They have not paid, all the promises, we have not received anything,” Ajibade stated.

‎The Super Falcons secured their record-extending 10th WAFCON title in a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Morocco, with standout performances from players like Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Jennifer Echegini. The team’s achievement was celebrated at a grand reception hosted by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where he praised their “indomitable spirit of resilience, determination, and courage” and announced the rewards.

‎However, months after the announcement, the promised funds and properties remain undelivered, raising questions about the administration’s priorities and the welfare of Nigerian athletes.

‎Ajibade, who was named Player of the Tournament, also noted that match bonuses remain unpaid, describing the situation as a “work in progress.” Despite her frustration, she expressed cautious optimism that the government would eventually honor its commitments.

‎The delay has drawn comparisons to similar unfulfilled promises in Nigerian sports, with public sentiment on across platforms reflecting growing discontent.

‎The Super Falcons’ situation comes in the wake of similar rewards promised to Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, who also received pledges of $100,000 per player and other incentives following their recent AfroBasket triumph.

‎The recurrence of such delays has stirred calls for greater transparency and accountability in the management of sports funding in Nigeria.

‎Ajibade’s comments have heightened demands from fans and stakeholders for the Federal Government to expedite the payments and fulfill its promises to the Super Falcons, who continue to inspire millions across the nation

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Napa Onwusah, Tech Veteran from Amazon and Google, Joins Enugu Tech Festival Board

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By Prosper Mene

‎The Enugu Tech Festival, a premier event driving innovation and collaboration in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem, has announced the appointment of Napa Onwusah, a distinguished tech leader with experience at Amazon and Google, to its board. 

‎This strategic addition is set to elevate the festival’s mission to foster technological advancement and empower the next generation of African innovators.

‎Onwusah brings a wealth of expertise from her tenure at two of the world’s leading tech giants. At Amazon, she contributed to groundbreaking projects in cloud computing and e-commerce, while her role at Google focused on advancing cutting-edge solutions in artificial intelligence and user experience.

‎Her global perspective and deep industry knowledge are expected to enhance the festival’s ability to connect local talent with international opportunities.The Enugu Tech Festival, an annual gathering that showcases emerging technologies, startups, and thought leadership, has grown into a crucial platform for Nigeria’s tech community.

‎With Onwusah’s involvement, the organizers aim to strengthen partnerships, attract global investment, and amplify the event’s impact on the region’s digital economy.“I’m thrilled to join the Enugu Tech Festival board and contribute to its vision of transforming Nigeria into a global tech hub,” Onwusah said. “The potential here is immense, and I look forward to supporting initiatives that empower young innovators and drive sustainable growth.

‎Festival organizers expressed enthusiasm about Onwusah’s appointment, noting her ability to bridge local innovation with global standards. Her role is expected to shape the 2025 edition, scheduled for later this year, into a landmark event for tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and policymakers across Africa.

‎The Enugu Tech Festival is growing as a key driver of tech innovation, and Onwusah’s expertise is set to take it to new levels

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‎Toke Makinwa Expecting First Child, Shares Joyful Pregnancy News

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By Prosper

‎Nigerian media personality and actress Toke Makinwa has announced she is expecting her first child, sending waves of excitement across social media.

‎The 40-year-old shared the joyous news in an emotional Instagram post on Wednesday, describing motherhood as “the biggest project of my life” and “the highest calling ever.”

‎ ‎In a beautifully shot video set in a lush garden, Makinwa proudly showcased her baby bump, radiating gratitude and hope.

‎Makinwa’s heartfelt caption reflected on her journey, crediting divine timing for the blessing. “What a difference a year can make,” she wrote. “Dear God, You did this one, you have completely changed my life. You opened this door that nobody can shut.”

‎ ‎The announcement garnered over 40,000 comments within hours striking a chord with fans and celebrities alike, including stars like Funke Akindele and Toyin Abraham, who flooded her post with congratulations.

‎Makinwa’s reflections on her path to motherhood resonated deeply, as she acknowledged moments of doubt when she felt “forgotten” but now sees the preparation for this milestone. “You worked on my heart posture to get me ready for the biggest blessing,” she shared.

‎Makinde, ‎Known for her multifaceted career as a radio host, TV presenter, author of the bestselling memoir On Becoming, and fashion influencer, declared that motherhood surpasses all her previous roles. “I’ve worn so many hats over the years, but this one trumps it all,” she wrote, expressing gratitude to her fans for supporting her journey from her early days on Rhythm 93.7 FM to becoming one of Nigeria’s most influential voices.

‎ ‎In a touching note to her unborn child, Makinwa added, “My bug, I cannot wait to meet you, you’ve made me the happiest person on earth. Thank you for choosing me to be the greatest reflection of God’s grace.”

‎Makinwa’s journey to motherhood acts as an inspiration to many, cementing her legacy as a media powerhouse and a beacon of faith and resilience.

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‎Ibom Air Passenger Comfort Emmanson Released from Kirikiri Prison

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Comfort Emmanson, the Ibom Air passenger recently discharged by an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court, has broken her silence following her release from Kirikiri Prison. 

‎In an Instagram post on Wednesday, Emmanson expressed gratitude to her supporters while revealing she is grappling with physical and emotional pain from her detention experience.“Thank you so much for all the Prayers, Love, and support,” Emmanson wrote. “I’ve been released from the Prison, but I’m still in pains due to how I was treated. I just need some rest and medical treatment before I give out my own version of the event. Thank you so much my Lovely Friends and Supporters. I really appreciate y’all from the bottom of my heart. God bless y’all. THANK YOU MY GREAT GOD!!!”

‎ ‎The release comes after an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court in Ogba struck out a five-count charge against Emmanson, which included allegations of disrupting peace aboard an Ibom Air flight, assaulting a crew member, and breaching public order. The charges were withdrawn after the complainant and Ibom Air indicated they no longer wished to pursue the case, prompting Magistrate Olanrewaju Salami to order her discharge.

‎Additionally, the Minister of Aviation reportedly ordered Ibom Air to withdraw its case, and the Inspector General of Police was directed to secure her release from Kirikiri Prison.

‎Public discourse, claims surfaced on social media suggesting Emmanson was innocent and that her attempt to exit the aircraft was met with resistance from Ibom Air staff, who allegedly humiliated her by removing her shirt.

‎In a new development, her lifetime ban from flying with Ibom Air was lifted and reduced to a one-month suspension, allowing her to resume air travel.

‎Emmanson has yet to share her full account of the incident, citing the need for rest and medical attention.

‎The public await her detailed statement on the events that led to her detention and the trauma she endured.

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‎Ekiti Court Remands Woman for Stealing Newborn from Health Facility

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By Prosper Mene 

‎A Chief Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti has ordered the remand of 34-year-old Deborah Ayeni at a correctional facility for allegedly stealing a day-old baby from the Okeiyinmi Primary Health Centre. 

‎The incident occurred on Monday, August 4, 2025, and has stirred widespread outrage and concerns about security in healthcare facilities across the state. According to police reports, Deborah was arrested on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at her residence along Afao Road following a tip-off.

‎The suspect confessed to the crime, revealing she stole the newborn to deceive her UK-based boyfriend, whom she had falsely told she was pregnant to extort money. To gain access to the maternity ward, Deborah disguised herself as an expectant mother by padding her stomach with clothes.“I planned the act because I had been lying to my boyfriend about being pregnant,” Deborah admitted during a police parade, as reported by the Ekiti State Police Command. “When he said he was coming to visit, I needed to convince him I had given birth.”

‎She further explained that she targeted the baby after befriending the mother, a Northerner, using her ability to speak Hausa to gain the family’s trust. On Sunday night, the baby’s father asked Deborah to watch over his wife and newborn. Seizing the opportunity early Monday morning around 5 a.m., when the mother was asleep and no nurses were present, Deborah fled with the infant.

‎The Ekiti State Police Commissioner, Joseph Eribo, credited the arrest to swift intelligence gathering and public cooperation. A polythene bag containing a supermarket receipt for baby items, left behind by the suspect, led police to obtain CCTV footage from the store, which revealed her identity. A citizen’s tip-off about a woman who was not pregnant but suddenly had a newborn further aided the investigation. “This arrest shows the importance of community vigilance,” Eribo said, urging residents to report suspicious activities promptly.The stolen baby was recovered and reunited with its parents, bringing relief to the family and the Okeiyinmi health centre, which had been thrown into chaos after the infant was reported missing less than 20 hours after birth.

‎Ayeni remains in custody pending further legal proceedings, with the court yet to announce a date for her next hearing. The case continues to draw attention as authorities emphasize the need for heightened awareness to prevent similar incidents.

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‎Ushie Rita Shrugs Off NYSC Certificate Drama: Says her Life is Great

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎Responding to the ongoing controversy surrounding her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate, Cross River-born corps member Ushie Rita Uguamaye has declared, “NYSC certificate or not, my life is great.” 

‎Her statement comes after NYSC decided to withhold her Certificate of National Service, causing widespread debate on social media and beyond.

‎The controversy began when Rita, who completed her mandatory national service under state code LA/24B/8325, posted a video online criticizing the Nigerian government for “weaponizing poverty” during her two-year service period. The video, which resonated with many Nigerians facing economic hardships, drew significant attention but also led to repercussions from the NYSC.

‎ The organization clarified that Rita was not issued her discharge certificate due to reasons unrelated to her critical remarks, countering claims circulating on social media.

‎In a press statement, the NYSC explained that the decision was based on administrative grounds, though specific details were not disclosed, prompting varied reactions. Some, like social media user @REALLUCAS20 ‎, expressed outrage, accusing the NYSC of punitive measures against Rita for her outspokenness.

‎Despite the backlash and the withheld certificate, Rita remains unbothered . Her defiant response is a testament of her resilience and determination to move forward, regardless of the NYSC’s decision. “I spoke my truth, and I stand by it,” she reportedly said, emphasizing that her future remains bright with or without the certificate.

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‎Peter Obi Slams Selective Justice in Nigeria Over Ibom Air Incident

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned what he describes as “double standards” in Nigeria’s justice system, citing the recent Ibom Air incident involving passenger Comfort Emmanson.

‎He criticized the harsh treatment meted out to Emmanson while highlighting disparities in how similar cases are handled. Obi apologized to the Ibom Air crew allegedly assaulted by Emmanson but strongly condemned the “dehumanizing” actions of security operatives, who he claims publicly stripped, arraigned, and remanded her.

‎ He compared this with the case of another passenger, accused of delaying a flight and endangering lives, who has neither been arrested nor prosecuted, with some officials allegedly advocating for leniency.“This case is not just about one young woman; it is about the double standards that poison our justice system,” He said. “Justice in Nigeria must never be about who is poor or powerless versus who has influence or access to government officials.” He argued that selective enforcement, particularly against women and the less privileged, undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust.

‎ ‎Obi called on the Minister of Aviation and relevant authorities to explain the disparity and ensure justice is applied equally. He emphasized that Emmanson’s offense pales in contrast to crimes committed by influential figures who face no consequences. “We must end this selective treatment of the poor or less privileged. If justice must be served, it should be served to all, and it must be served fairly,” he said.

‎ ‎The incident has stirred widespread debate, with Obi’s remarks pushing calls for systemic reform. He concluded, “Justice must be just, or it is nothing at all. The rule of law based on justice for all must remain the guidepost of our democracy.”

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‎Minister Promotes Local Products During NASENI Facility Tour

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole recently toured the facilities of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) in efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s economy.

‎Oduwole passionately advocated for the use of made-in-Nigeria products. Citing the importance of supporting local industries, the Minister highlighted how choosing homegrown goods can create jobs, boost innovation, and foster national pride.

‎During the visit, the Minister explored NASENI’s cutting-edge projects, from advanced manufacturing to renewable energy solutions, all designed to address Nigeria’s unique challenges.

‎The Minister praised the agency’s efforts, urging citizens and businesses to embrace locally made products to drive sustainable growth and reduce reliance on imports. “Let’s celebrate and support what we create here,” the Minister said, encouraging Nigerians to take pride in the quality and potential of local innovations.

‎The tour focus on the government’s commitment to empowering local industries and building a self-reliant future for the nation.

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‎Passenger Remanded in Kirikiri for Assaulting Ibom Air Crew on Uyo-Lagos Flight.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎Comfort Emmanson, A female passenger, has been charged to court and remanded at Kirikiri Correctional Facility in Lagos after a violent altercation with Ibom Air crew members and airport security on a Uyo-to-Lagos flight.

‎According to Ibom Air’s official statement, the incident began before takeoff at Uyo’s Victor Attah International Airport when Emmanson refused to comply with standard safety protocols requiring passengers to switch off mobile phones. A fellow passenger intervened by turning off her device, triggering a verbal outburst. The situation was temporarily resolved, and the flight departed as scheduled.

‎Upon arrival at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed Airport, Emmanson allegedly confronted the purser who had instructed her to turn off her phone. The confrontation escalated into physical assault, with Emmanson reportedly stepping on the purser’s foot, forcibly removing her wig and glasses, throwing them to the floor, and striking her multiple times with her footwear. When another crew member attempted to intervene, Emmanson allegedly slapped her as well. In a further escalation, she attempted to seize a fire extinguisher, an act that could have damaged the aircraft and posed a significant safety risk.The pilot-in-command alerted airport security, but Emmanson continued her aggressive behavior, attacking both Ibom Air and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) security personnel, including a ground supervisor. She was eventually restrained, removed from the aircraft, and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for investigation. Ibom Air has since imposed a lifetime travel ban on Emmanson, barring her from flying on any of its aircraft, and submitted a detailed report to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

‎Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, confirmed the court’s decision via a post on X, stating, “The more reason the flying public should be more careful, the unruly passenger on Uyo-Lagos bound Ibom Air, Miss Comfort Emmanson, has been charged to court and she’s now cooling off in Kirikiri.”

‎The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has also taken decisive action, placing Emmanson on an indefinite no-fly list across all its member airlines. AON spokesperson Obiora Okonkwo emphasized that her actions endangered the safety of crew, passengers, and the aircraft, describing the incident as one of the most severe cases of unruly passenger behavior this year.

‎The AON further called on FAAN to strengthen airport security protocols to address vulnerabilities exposed by the incident.

‎The NCAA has reiterated its commitment to stricter enforcement against unruly passenger behavior, with spokesperson Michael Achimugu stressing the importance of compliance with safety instructions. “Simple routine issues shouldn’t lead to incidents like this. Passengers need to understand they have responsibilities, not just rights,” Achimugu stated.

‎The case shows Nigeria’s aviation industry’s zero-tolerance policy toward disruptive behavior and its ongoing efforts to enhance safety and security for all passengers and crew.

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