close
Women Times

Chat Room

News

NANNM Vows to Continue Strike Until Federal Government Shows Commitment ‎

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Federal Health Institutions Sector, has declared that its ongoing seven-day nationwide warning strike will not be suspended until the Federal Government demonstrates serious commitment to addressing their demands. The strike, which began on July 30, 2025, has crippled healthcare services across federal hospitals, leaving patients stranded and facilities struggling to cope.

‎National Chairman of NANNM, Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan, speaking on Thursday, emphasized the union’s resolve following a meeting with the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammadu Dingyadi, on Tuesday. The meeting, held after the expiration of a 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14, ended in a deadlock, prompting the union to proceed with the industrial action. “We are not comfortable with the government’s request to suspend the strike before addressing our demands. Parts of these demands must be met, and we must see serious commitment from the government before we take that step,” Rilwan stated.

‎ ‎The nurses’ demands include better remuneration, improved workplace safety, increased staffing to address severe shortages, and the creation of a Department of Nursing in the Federal Ministry of Health. They also seek the gazetting of the nursing scheme of service approved since 2016, fair representation on health policy-making bodies, and the withdrawal of a recent circular on revised allowances deemed inadequate. Josephine Bassey, Chairman of the Cross River State chapter, noted that 90% of these demands carry no financial implications, focusing instead on administrative reforms like enforcing court judgments and policy papers.

‎ ‎The strike, likened a “total shutdown,” has led to significant disruptions. At the Federal Medical Centre in Abuja, long queues formed at outpatient departments, with patients waiting hours for minimal care. In Bayelsa, some primary healthcare centers shut down entirely, while in Kebbi, NANNM’s state chairman, Kilani AbdulWaliyu, apologized to patients but stressed the necessity of the action due to government inaction.

‎ ‎The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Labour, has urged NANNM to embrace dialogue and suspend the strike. A high-level stakeholders’ meeting is scheduled for Friday, involving key ministries and NANNM executives, with the Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Pate, expressing commitment to resolving the crisis. However, Rilwan warned that failure to meet their demands by the end of the warning strike could lead to a 21-day ultimatum, followed by an indefinite nationwide strike.

‎ ‎NANNM leaders emphasized that nurses, who constitute 60-65% of Nigeria’s healthcare workforce, have not embarked on a solo strike in over 40 years, with the last occurring in 1984. “It’s not in our nature to strike, but the government’s insensitivity has left us no choice,” Rilwan said, citing the union’s patience and compassion for patients. ‎

‎The union has called for public understanding, urging the government to act swiftly to prevent further escalation and ensure quality healthcare delivery.

‎ ‎

read more
News

‎ ‎House of Representatives Urges Nigerian Nurses and Midwives to Suspend Nationwide Strike

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎The House of Representatives Committee on Labour, Employment, and Productivity has called on the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) to halt their ongoing seven-day nationwide strike, acknowledging its severe impact on healthcare delivery across the country. The appeal comes as the strike, which began on July 29, continues to disrupt medical services, leaving patients stranded and hospitals overwhelmed.

‎In a statement issued on Thursday, Committee Chairman Asiwaju (Dr.) Adegboyega Adefarati acknowledged the critical role of nurses and midwives in Nigeria’s healthcare system but emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve the crisis. “At this critical period of our nation’s economic transformation, it is imperative that we prioritize the collective interests of all Nigerians,” Adefarati said, urging the union to consider the broader national interest.

‎ ‎The strike, initiated by NANNM following a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demands improved welfare, fair allowances, increased recruitment, and better working conditions. The union’s grievances also include the government’s failure to implement a 2012 National Industrial Arbitration Court judgment and to gazette the nurses’ scheme of service approved in 2016.

‎ ‎Adefarati expressed empathy for the nurses’ concerns, noting, “The House Committee deeply empathizes with Nigerian nurses and midwives over their service concerns and acknowledges their vital roles in safeguarding the health and well-being of our citizens.” He confirmed that the Ministers of Labour and Health are actively engaging with NANNM leadership to address the issues and urged the union to suspend the strike to allow for constructive negotiations.

‎

‎

‎The Kwara State Council of NANNM has also joined the strike, amplifying the national body’s demands while raising local issues such as career progression and allowances for nurses in underserved areas. The state chapter commended Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for a recent 25% salary increase but stressed that unresolved challenges persist.

‎ ‎The House Committee remains optimistic that a balanced solution can be reached, one that addresses the nurses’ demands while ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services. Adefarati concluded, “We appeal to the leadership of the Nigerian Nurses and Midwives to show leadership and patriotism by suspending the strike as we work together to restore full healthcare services for our citizens.”

‎While negotiations continue, Nigerians await a resolution to the standoff, hoping for a swift return to normalcy in the nation’s healthcare system.

‎ ‎

read more
News

Women Tabloid Honours AXA Mansard CFO Ngozi Ola-Israel as “CFO of the Year”

by Women Times on

 

AXA Mansard’s Chief Financial Officer, Ngozi Ola-Israel, has been awarded the prestigious “CFO of the Year” accolade by the Women Tabloid Awards, an event that recognizes pioneering women who are reshaping success and breaking stereotypes across industries globally.

Rashidat Adebisi, Chief Client Officer of AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, highlighted Ngozi’s exceptional leadership, saying, “This recognition underscores the remarkable contributions Ngozi and her team continue to make in driving our company’s success amid a challenging and dynamic environment. Her strategic vision has been pivotal in achieving sustained financial growth, strengthening our market position, and reinforcing our commitment to transparency through the successful adoption of IFRS 17.”

Expressing her gratitude, Ngozi Ola-Israel praised the organizers of Women Tabloid for their effort in spotlighting women’s impactful work across sectors. “Being named CFO of the Year affirms AXA’s dedication to inclusive protection and fostering an environment where individuals are empowered to care and dare,” she stated. “This award motivates me to keep mentoring others, supporting women in finance, and contributing to impactful leadership.”

With over ten years at AXA Mansard, Ngozi’s career has been marked by significant achievements. She joined as Group Head of Financial Control and became CFO in 2017. Under her leadership, the company exceeded its 2024 revenue targets by 32% and saw nearly a 50% rise in share price. She also served as Chief Data Officer from 2019 to 2024, leading enterprise-wide data transformation initiatives.

Ngozi’s influence extends to governance roles as a Non-Executive Director at AXA Mansard Investments and APD. She has spearheaded various transformative projects, including KPI dashboards, a car valuation model that improved claims accuracy, and a remote vehicle inspection tool, all aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience.

Beyond her financial expertise, Ngozi is an advocate for gender equity and mentorship. She founded the AXA Mansard Finance Community to promote continuous learning and actively mentors aspiring women board members through WIMBIZ. She is also deeply involved in integrating ESG strategies into AXA’s operations as part of its sustainability agenda.

Recognized as one of Africa’s Top 50 CFOs in 2024 and a member of the Harvard Business Review Advisory Council, Ngozi Ola-Israel remains a respected voice in the finance industry, frequently speaking at major industry events, including the 2024 International Conference for Women in Insurance.

 

read more
News

‎Benue Governor Alia Lauds First Lady Remi Tinubu for N1 Billion Donation and Motherly Support

by Women Times on

‎By Prosper Mene

‎Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has expressed profound gratitude to Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her compassionate support and intervention following the recent violent attacks in the state. During a condolence visit to Makurdi on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, Mrs. Tinubu donated N1 billion through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) to aid families displaced by a suspected herders’ attack in Yelewata community, Guma Local Government Area, where over 100 lives were lost in June.

‎Governor Alia, speaking at the New Banquet Hall of the Benue State Government House, described the First Lady’s gesture as a reflection of her “motherly heart, compassion, and commitment to national solidarity.” He highlighted her consistent support, noting her similar aid to Plateau State during its recent challenges. “Benue is overwhelmed by your thoughtfulness, kindness, and generosity,” Alia said, emphasizing that the donation and her presence provide hope and healing to the state’s grieving communities.

‎ ‎The N1 billion donation aims to help displaced families rebuild their lives by addressing essential needs such as food, shelter, healthcare, and vocational training. Mrs. Tinubu, addressing the people of Benue, urged for peace and dialogue, stating, “The way of peace is the way of love, and love is the greatest power on earth.” She also pledged RHI’s support to ensure affected children return to school and to address cross-border attacks in collaboration with the wife of the Nasarawa State Governor.

‎ ‎The First Lady decried the “hellish” living conditions of over 1.5 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Benue, including 3,160 at the International Market in Makurdi and 18,592 at NKST Primary School in Naka. She called for unity, emphasizing that Nigeria’s diversity should foster understanding rather than division.

‎ ‎Governor Alia also used the occasion to advocate for state police, arguing that a decentralized policing structure would enhance intelligence gathering and swift responses to security threats. He further appealed to Mrs. Tinubu to champion the domestication of the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law across North Central states to curb farmer-herder conflicts.

‎ ‎The paramount ruler of the Tiv nation, Prof. James Ayatse, described the attacks as a “genocidal war” and accused neighboring Nasarawa State of serving as a base for assailants, calling for urgent action.

‎ ‎Mrs. Tinubu’s visit, which included a ceremonial cheque presentation and stakeholder meetings, was warmly received by state officials and local leaders, who described the donation as a lifeline for families struggling to survive. ‎Governor Alia reiterated his commitment to working with stakeholders to rebuild affected communities and ensure lasting peace, expressing hope that the First Lady’s gesture would inspire further support for Benue’s humanitarian crisis.

read more
News

‎Super Falcons’ Captain Ajibade Shares Plan to Win World Cup

by Women Times on

‎By Prosper Mene 

‎After leading Nigeria’s Super Falcons to their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, captain Rasheedat Ajibade has revealed how the team can win the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Speaking at a reception hosted by President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, Ajibade outlined a clear path to global success.

‎The Super Falcons won the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco with a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over the hosts, thanks to goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Jennifer Echegini. Ajibade, named Player of the Tournament, believes the team can achieve more. “We’ve conquered Africa again. Now, we aim for the world,” she said.

‎Below is Ajibade’s plan for World Cup glory:

‎Better Support: Ajibade called for more funding, better training facilities, and regular matches against top teams to prepare for the World Cup.

‎Improved Tactics: Under coach Justin Madugu, the team played an exciting, attacking style. Ajibade wants to keep improving their game, especially defending set pieces.

‎Young Talent: She emphasized nurturing young players from Nigeria’s U-20 and U-17 teams to strengthen the squad.

‎Strong Mindset: Ajibade highlighted the team’s fighting spirit, shown in their WAFCON comeback, as key to winning tough matches.

‎

‎First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu urged the team to aim high, saying, “I told Mr. President you need to win the World Cup, and Rasheedat agrees it’s possible!” The Super Falcons have reached every Women’s World Cup since 1991, with their best result being the quarterfinals in 1999. Their 2023 performance, including a win over Australia, proved they can compete with the best.

‎Fans are excited about Ajibade’s vision. “This team has what it takes,” said sports journalist Biola Solace-Chukwu. With the 2027 World Cup approaching, Ajibade and the Super Falcons are ready to chase history and bring pride to Nigeria.

‎ ‎

read more
News

‎Tragic Road Accident Claims Lives of UNIPORT Student, Infant, and One Other in Rivers State

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎A devastating road accident along the Eliozu-Rumuokoro Road in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has claimed the lives of a University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) student, an infant, and one other person.

The incident, which occurred on Monday near the Eliozu Flyover, involved a UNIPORT shuttle bus colliding with a stationary truck, leaving the community in mourning and raising concerns about road safety.

The UNIPORT student, identified as Silvia Oko, a 300-level Economics undergraduate, was among the victims confirmed dead at the scene. The state commandant of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Inyang Umoh, reported that two females and a child were found deceased by responders, with overspeeding identified as the primary cause of the crash. “The driver lost control and rammed into a truck parked on the side of the road,” Umoh stated, citing eyewitness accounts.

‎Initial reports from eyewitnesses suggested a higher death toll, with some claiming up to five fatalities, primarily students. However, UNIPORT’s spokesperson, Dr. Sammy Kpenu, clarified that only one student, Silvia Oko, lost her life, dispelling social media rumors of multiple student deaths. Another student, Chidinma Blessing, sustained facial injuries and underwent successful surgery at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH). “She is stable, and her parents have been informed,” Kpenu confirmed.

‎ ‎The accident has caused outrage and grief within the UNIPORT community, with students and faculty demanding a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the crash. Authorities have launched an inquiry to determine the exact cause, with preliminary findings pointing to the shuttle bus driver’s excessive speed. Emergency responders evacuated the scene, and injured victims were promptly transported to UPTH’s Accident and Emergency unit for treatment.

‎ ‎The tragic loss of Silvia Oko, the infant, and the third victim shows the urgent need for improved road safety measures in Rivers State. The university has extended condolences to the families of the deceased, with Kpenu stating, “We share in the grief of this profound loss and are committed to supporting the affected families.” The institution is also engaging with relevant authorities to ensure accountability and prevent future tragedies.

‎The Rivers State community mourns the lives lost and rallies for justice and enhanced safety protocols on its roads.

‎ ‎

read more
News

Female-Led NGO Empowers 420 Lagos Schoolgirls with Agriculture and Life Skills Training

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎A female-led non-governmental organization, Great Brave Women (GBW), has successfully trained over 420 schoolgirls across eight secondary schools in Lagos State in agricultural practices and essential life skills.

The initiative, spearheaded by GBW’s Lagos State Coordinator, Alhaja Omotayo Atoba, aims to empower the next generation of female leaders in agriculture while fostering sustainable development and gender equality.The training program, conducted as part of GBW’s ongoing efforts, equipped students with practical knowledge in agricultural and environmental practices.

‎Selected participants received starter kits, including live catfish with feeds, hens with poultry feed, watering cans, and eco-friendly pesticides, to kickstart their agricultural journeys. “This effort is fully powered by the individual contributions of our women farmers, without any external support,” said Mrs. Yetunde Olaniyan, a dedicated farmer involved in the program. She emphasized the NGO’s commitment to reshaping perceptions of farming while nurturing the potential of young girls.

‎Alhaja Atoba, who also serves as the state coordinator for Nigerian Women in Agriculture, noted the transformative impact of the initiative. “What you see here today is the result of collective passion and sacrifice. I firmly believe that when you train a woman, you train a nation,” she stated. Atoba called for support from the Lagos State government, local authorities, and private sector partners to expand the program’s reach and impact.

‎One of the beneficiaries, Dorcas Olaniyan, shared her enthusiasm, saying, “Agriculture has taught me that nothing is wasted. Whether it’s farming or another skill, I urge fellow students to embrace learning and make the most of every opportunity.”The program received commendations from representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture and other senior government officials, who praised GBW’s grassroots approach to gender-focused agricultural education. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that GBW plans to continue the training when schools resume in September, setting a new standard for empowering young women in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

read more
News

‎Tinubu Shares Funny Story of First Lady Ditching Cooking to Watch Super Falcons Win WAFCON

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎President Bola Ahmed Tinubu brought laughter to a reception at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Monday, as he recounted how his wife, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, left her cooking to cheer on Nigeria’s Super Falcons during their thrilling victory in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final.

‎ ‎Speaking to the triumphant team, Tinubu admitted he initially avoided watching the match to spare himself the stress, humorously citing concerns about high blood pressure. “Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match. I didn’t want to have high blood pressure,” he said to an amused audience. “But they turned on the television. When it was 2-0, I got offended and restless.” Despite his reluctance, the President found himself captivated by the team’s resilience, particularly praising Esther Okoronkwo’s “courageous” 64th-minute penalty kick that spunned Nigeria’s comeback.

‎ ‎The room erupted in laughter when Tinubu shared that the First Lady, who rarely watches football unless the Super Falcons are playing, was so engrossed in the match that she nearly forgot his dinner. “You almost made me angrier because your mother, the First Lady, was in the kitchen, nearly abandoning my dinner,” he quipped. “She came running: ‘We have won!’ I said, ‘You have not yet won.’ And at the final whistle, it was all excitement all over the country.”

‎ ‎The Super Falcons, led by captain and tournament MVP Rasheedat Ajibade, were honored at the State Banquet Hall, where Tinubu conferred the national honor of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on all 24 players and the 11-member technical crew. Each player was also awarded a three-bedroom flat in Abuja’s Renewed Hope Housing Estate and a cash prize equivalent to $100,000, while the technical team received $50,000 each.

‎ ‎

‎ ‎The First Lady, celebrated by the team with their now-famous “Na our mama be this o” chant, also received accolades for her steadfast support. Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who had earlier congratulated the team for their semi-final win, hailed their victory as a testament to the strength and brilliance of Nigerian women. “You have written your names in gold and inspired millions across the continent,” she said. ‎

‎President Tinubu expressed confidence in the team’s ability to inspire future generations, stating, “You represent that hope. You ignited our hope, and we will continue to encourage you.”

‎ ‎

read more
News

‎Tinubu Honors Super Falcons with National Awards, $100,000, and Houses After Historic WAFCON Win

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎President Bola Ahmed Tinubu celebrated Nigeria’s Super Falcons in grand style on Monday, conferring the prestigious national honor of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on all 24 players and the technical crew for their historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) victory in Morocco.

The team, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, secured a thrilling 3-2 comeback win against hosts Morocco in Rabat on Saturday, reaffirming their dominance as Africa’s most successful women’s football team.

‎During a reception at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, attended by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, Vice President’s wife Nana Shettima, and top government officials, President Tinubu announced substantial rewards to honor the team’s resilience and national pride. Each player will receive a three-bedroom apartment in the Renewed Hope Housing Estate and a cash award equivalent to $100,000 in naira (approximately N153 million). The 11-member technical crew will also be awarded three-bedroom apartments and $50,000 each (approximately N75.6 million).“Your indomitable spirit of resilience, determination, and courage has lifted the spirit of the entire nation,” Tinubu said, praising the team’s dramatic comeback from a 2-0 deficit, sealed by goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and a stunning late free kick by Jennifer Echegini. “You have not only won a trophy but inspired millions, especially young girls, who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable.”

‎ ‎The Nigeria Governors’ Forum, led by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, complemented the President’s gesture by donating N10 million to each player and technical crew member. The ceremony also saw the team present the glittering WAFCON trophy to President Tinubu, fulfilling a promise made during a post-match video call where he pledged to host them.The Super Falcons’ victory, marked by standout performances from Rasheedat Ajibade (named Player of the Tournament), Esther Okoronkwo, Chiamaka Nnadozie (Best Goalkeeper), and Michelle Alozie, who all made the WAFCON Best XI, has ignited widespread celebrations across Nigeria. Their triumph shows the team’s legacy, having now won four of the last five WAFCON titles (2014, 2016, 2018, and 2024).

‎Tinubu lauded the team’s sportsmanship, particularly their compassionate visit to injured South African player Gabriela Salgado after the semi-final, calling it a reflection of “shared humanity and empathy.” He added, “The Super Falcons have proven, once again, that Nigeria is unstoppable when we stand united.”

‎ ‎The reception showed the administration’s commitment to rewarding excellence in sports and advancing athlete welfare, with Tinubu noting that the team’s success has reignited national pride.

read more
News

‎Lagos Woman Arrested for Selling Contaminated Yam Flour Mixed with Harmful Coloring

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎A woman identified as Mrs. Kehinde Raji has been apprehended by the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI) for allegedly producing and selling contaminated yam flour, locally known as ‘Elubo Isu,’ mixed with spoiled yam and harmful coloring agents.

The arrest which was announced by the state’s Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, followed a tip-off from the Chairman of the Elubo Sellers Association, who raised concerns about dangerous food adulteration practices in a local market.

‎According to Wahab, credible intelligence revealed that some traders were deliberately mixing spoiled yam flour with hazardous coloring chemicals to deceive unsuspecting consumers. “This morning, we received information from the Elubo Sellers Association about unscrupulous traders endangering public health,” Wahab stated. “Our KAI enforcement team conducted a swift raid, leading to the arrest of Mrs. Kehinde Raji, who was caught in the act of producing this contaminated product.”Preliminary investigations suggest that the adulterated yam flour has already caused health complications for several consumers, raising alarm about the safety of food sold in local markets. The suspect is set to face prosecution under relevant Lagos State laws, with authorities stressing their commitment to protecting public health.

‎The Lagos State Government has commended the market leadership for their vigilance and urged citizens to report suspicious activities in food production and sales.

‎

read more
1 … 35 36 37 38 39 … 77
Page 37 of 77