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Children’s Day: FG Pledges Equal Opportunities for Every Nigerian Child

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to providing equal opportunities and inclusive education for every Nigerian child, as the nation celebrates Children’s Day on May 27, 2026.

Speaking at the national celebration, the Minister of Education, Professor Maruf Alausa, described the day as a powerful reminder of the country’s responsibility to invest in the future of its children through quality education, improved well-being, and unrestricted access to opportunities regardless of background, location, or ability.

“Every Nigerian child deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. Today, we renew our pledge to build an education system that leaves no child behind,” the minister said.

The 2026 celebration, themed “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” highlights the government’s focus on inclusive policies, protection of children’s rights, and the creation of safe learning environments across the country.

The event, hosted by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and other stakeholders, featured parades, cultural displays, and engagements with children from various schools and backgrounds.

Government officials stressed ongoing efforts to address challenges such as out-of-school children, gender disparities in education, and vulnerabilities faced by children with disabilities. The FG highlighted initiatives aimed at expanding access to quality education, strengthening child protection systems, and promoting equal opportunities nationwide.

In his remarks, the minister commended the resilience and potential of Nigerian children while calling on parents, educators, and society to join hands in nurturing the next generation.

“Children are not just the leaders of tomorrow — they are the foundation of our today. Their dreams must be matched with deliberate actions and investments,” he added.

The Federal Government continues to partner with organisations such as UNICEF and civil society groups to advance child rights and development programmes.

As Nigeria marks this special day, the message remains clear: the future of the nation depends on empowering every child with the tools, opportunities, and protection they need to thrive.

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News

‎𝗦𝗮𝗻𝘄𝗼-𝗢𝗹𝘂, 𝗛𝗮𝗺𝘇𝗮𝘁 𝗽𝗮𝘆 𝗘𝗶𝗱-𝗲𝗹-𝗞𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗿 𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗧𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗯𝘂, 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗟𝗮𝗴𝗼𝘀

by Women Times on

Lagos, Nigeria – May 27, 2026

By Prosper Mene 

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, accompanied by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, on Wednesday paid a festive courtesy visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as part of activities marking Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

The visit, which took place in Lagos, underscored the cordial relationship between the Lagos State Government and the Presidency. Governor Sanwo-Olu described it as a moment of goodwill and an opportunity to reaffirm the strong working partnership between the state and federal governments for the progress of Lagos and the nation.

In a statement on his verified X handle, Governor Sanwo-Olu wrote: “Together with the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, we visited His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and our First Lady, HE Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as part of the Eid el Kabir celebrations. It is always a pleasure to have the President back home to Lagos.”

The leaders were pictured in warm, celebratory moods, dressed in traditional attire befitting the occasion. The visit followed the Eid prayers earlier in the day at the Dodan Barracks Prayer Ground, where President Tinubu joined Governor Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Hamzat, and other dignitaries for prayers focused on peace, unity, and national progress.

Eid-el-Kabir, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The festival emphasizes themes of sacrifice, generosity, tolerance, and communal harmony.

President Tinubu, who is in Lagos for the festivities, used the occasion to urge Nigerians to embrace values of love, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. The presence of the Lagos State leadership at both the prayer ground and the courtesy visit highlights the collaborative spirit between federal and state institutions.

Political observers view the visit as a demonstration of loyalty, unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC), and continued alignment between the President and his political base in Lagos, where he previously served as Governor.

The brief but symbolic engagement ended with prayers for the continued well-being of the President, the First Lady, and the nation at large.

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NewsSport

Coco Gauff Begins French Open Title Defence with Dominant Straight-Sets Win Over Taylor Townsend

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Defending champion Coco Gauff launched her bid for a second consecutive French Open title with a commanding 6-4, 6-4 victory over fellow American Taylor Townsend in the first round at Roland Garros on Tuesday.

The world No. 4, who claimed her first Roland Garros crown in 2025 by defeating Aryna Sabalenka in the final, overcame an early setback to dispatch Townsend 6-4, 6-0 in one hour and 20 minutes on Court Philippe-Chatrier.

Gauff found herself down 1-3 in the opening set but reeled off 11 of the final 12 games to seize control. She broke her opponent six times overall, showcasing the precise movement, powerful returns, and baseline dominance that have defined her clay-court resurgence.

The match carried extra emotional weight as the two Americans are close friends off the court. They shared a warm embrace at the net following the contest, with Gauff acknowledging the challenge of facing a familiar opponent in the opening round.

“Taylor and I have known each other for so long,” Gauff said afterward. “This is I think our first match on tour. So, we know each other off the court, but on the court, not so well.”

The victory extends Gauff’s winning streak at Roland Garros and highlights her strong recent form on the surface. Conditions were notably challenging, with temperatures in Paris approaching 100°F (nearly 38°C), yet the 22-year-old American said the heat ultimately aided her performance.

Gauff will now prepare for a second-round matchup against Egyptian qualifier Mayar Sherif on Thursday as she seeks to become the first woman to successfully defend the French Open title since Justine Henin in 2007.

Townsend, known for her crafty left-handed game and doubles prowess, pushed Gauff early but could not sustain the momentum against the defending champion’s superior athleticism and consistency.

Gauff’s successful title defence opener signals her intent to build on last year’s breakthrough, where she became the first American woman to win the French Open singles title since Serena Williams in 2015.

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NewsEmpowerment

SWAN Expands Educational Support to Boys’ Schools, Collaborates with NDLEA to Combat Youth Drug Abuse

by Women Times on

 

The Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN) has expanded its annual Equipping School Library Project to include boys’ schools across Lagos State. The initiative now combines the donation of books and educational materials with mentorship sessions focused on career development and social vices, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

For the 2026 edition, the beneficiary schools include Boys Academy Senior and Junior Schools, Sura, Obalende; Ajayi Crowther Memorial Senior Grammar School, Bariga; Archdeacon Adelaja Senior High School, Bariga; and Army Cantonment Boys Senior and Junior Secondary Schools, Ojo.

During the outreach, Mrs. Blessing Osakwe-Ogo (JP), SWAN’s National Chairperson, emphasised the Society’s commitment to empowerment and education for both genders. She highlighted the importance of access to quality educational resources for the intellectual growth and future success of young people.

“SWAN believes in knowledge, research, exploration, learning, and continuous improvement. Without knowledge, both students and professionals cannot attain their full potential. This is why equipping school libraries with professional and contemporary books remains one of our core objectives,” she explained.

The initiative aims to empower and inspire both the girl-child and boy-child, foster a reading culture among secondary school pupils, raise awareness about SWAN and the accounting profession, donate books to school libraries, establish SWAN Future Accountants’ Clubs, and organise quiz competitions, among other goals.

Osakwe-Ogo urged students to develop the habit of reading and to utilise their school libraries for research and personal growth, regardless of financial constraints. She also introduced the students to the accounting profession as a versatile and highly sought-after career path offering numerous opportunities for advancement and leadership, outlining pathways to becoming Chartered Accountants.

Encouraging the boys to stay focused on their future, she advised: “Study hard, stay disciplined, and avoid distractions. Prioritise your education, complete your secondary schooling successfully, and pursue higher education to achieve success in life.”

She also called on teachers to maintain supportive, approachable relationships with students to encourage open communication when they face challenges or need guidance.

Mrs. Ronke Akeredolu, Chairperson of the SWAN Equipping School Library Project Committee, noted that since the initiative was revived in 2021, SWAN has positively impacted many young people through book donations, in-house quiz competitions, and the creation of Future Accountants’ Clubs.

Akeredolu praised the successful extension of the programme to boys’ schools and appreciated the dedication of the project committee members.

Beyond academic and career support, the Society addressed the rising concern of drug abuse among youths. During a lecture, Ms. Latifat Fatola, Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics at the NDLEA, warned students of the biological and psychological dangers linked to substance abuse.

“Stay away from drugs and negative peer pressure because the brain is not fully developed until about age 25. Substance abuse affects the frontal lobe responsible for judgment and decision-making. Every choice you make today will affect your future, so live responsibly, maintain good character, and strive to become the best version of yourself,” Fatola advised.

Mrs. Oyebanjo Felicia, Vice Principal of Archdeacon Adelaja Senior High School, expressed gratitude to SWAN for the donation, noting it would motivate students to read more and improve academically. She urged alumni associations and corporate organisations to follow suit.

Mr. Olayinka Adeniji, Vice Principal of Ajayi Crowther Memorial Senior Grammar School, described the initiative as “highly laudable,” adding that SWAN’s support complements government efforts to enhance educational standards.

“We are partners in progress. Whatever SWAN has provided will add value to the resources already available through the government. I believe the mentorship and engagement will positively influence students’ attitudes and outlook,” he said.

Mr. Ogunyemi Kayode, Principal of Boys Academy Senior School, Sura, Obalende, commended SWAN for extending the project to boys’ schools and for tackling the increasing menace of drug abuse among students.

Mr. Sobanke Olalekan, Principal of Boys Academy Junior School, praised the organisation’s support, asserting it would motivate students towards academic excellence.

Mrs. Tunde Idowu and Mrs. Mabo, Principal and Vice Principal of Army Cantonment Boys Senior and Junior Secondary Schools, Ojo, also expressed appreciation for SWAN’s efforts in raising awareness about drug dangers and encouraged the Society to continue the programme.

The event concluded with prizes being awarded to the top three winners of the quiz competitions held across participating schools, alongside the official inauguration and certification of newly established Accounting Clubs — further affirming SWAN’s commitment to nurturing future accounting professionals.

SWAN is the female arm of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, founded in 1978. Its mission is to unite female accountants, mentor young professionals, and provide a robust support network to help women excel both professionally and personally.

 

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News

𝗗𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘆 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘀 — 𝗘𝘇𝗲𝗸𝘄𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

 Dr. Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili has declared that democracy is not the exclusive property of politicians, but the sacred inheritance of the citizens who breathe life into it.

Speaking at recent engagements, including sessions convened by civil society networks on electoral integrity, the former World Bank Vice President and co-founder of #FixPolitics stressed that the fate of Nigeria’s democracy rests not in the hands of the political class, but in the collective will and vigilance of ordinary Nigerians.

“Democracy does not belong to politicians. Democracy belongs to the citizens,” Ezekwesili asserted. She warned that the continuous erosion of democratic norms, weak institutions, and declining public trust in electoral bodies like INEC are pushing the nation dangerously close to the brink of state failure.

Ezekwesili’s message comes at a critical time. With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, concerns are mounting over electoral transparency, the integrity of the electoral process, and the persistent capture of democratic spaces by a self-serving elite. She urged citizens to move beyond passive voting and embrace active, sustained participation in shaping governance.

Her words echo a deeper truth: when citizens abdicate their responsibility, politicians quickly treat public office as personal property. Nigeria’s history is littered with examples where the political class has prioritised personal and partisan interests over national development — from unfulfilled electoral promises to the weakening of accountability mechanisms.

“Stop playing with fire,” she cautioned in related interviews, emphasising that unclear electoral rules, lack of transparency, and repeated breaches of public trust are recipes for deeper national instability.

Ezekwesili’s philosophy aligns with her long-standing advocacy through initiatives like #FixPolitics and the School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG), which aim to build a new generation of ethical, competent leaders while empowering citizens to demand better.

She has repeatedly argued that true democratic renewal requires:

Electoral reforms that leave no room for ambiguity or manipulation.

Stronger institutions insulated from political interference.

Active citizen engagement beyond election cycles — through oversight, advocacy, and holding leaders accountable.

Restoration of public trust in INEC and other democratic pillars.

Her message is particularly poignant for Nigeria’s youth and the Gen Z demographic, many of whom felt disillusioned after the controversies of the 2023 elections. Rather than retreat into apathy, Ezekwesili calls on them to channel their energy into organised, strategic action.

As Nigeria grapples with economic hardship, insecurity, and governance deficits, Ezekwesili’s words serve as both a warning and a rallying cry. Democracy is not a spectator sport. It demands vigilance, participation, and courage from those it is meant to serve.

The political class must be reminded that they are stewards, not owners, of the Nigerian project. Power ultimately flows from the people — and the people can reclaim it.

In the words of Dr. Ezekwesili: Nigeria does not belong to the political class. Nigeria belongs to Nigerian citizens.

The question now is whether citizens will rise to claim their democracy before it slips further away.

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NewsHealth

University of Ibadan Nursing Student Who Wrote UTME 5 Times Becomes Registered Nurse, Shares Inspiring Story

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

In a remarkable tale of perseverance and determination, a young Nigerian woman named Esther has triumphed over repeated academic setbacks to become a Registered Nurse at the prestigious University of Ibadan (UI).

Esther, known on X (formerly Twitter) as @itses_ther, recently shared her seven-year journey, highlighting how she sat for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME, also known as JAMB) five times before securing admission to study Nursing at UI in 2019.

In a heartfelt post reacting to a viral call for “growth” photos, Esther posted side-by-side images from 2019 and 2026, writing:

“2019 vs 2026. I wrote JAMB 5 times. Every single time, I missed the University of Ibadan Nursing cut-off mark by just 1 or 3 marks. Today, I’m a final year student at the University of Ibadan and also a Registered Nurse. Thank God for growth.”

Her story underscores the intense competition for Nursing at UI, where cut-off marks are notoriously high. Despite narrowly missing the target multiple times, Esther refused to give up, rewriting the exam until she finally gained admission. She has since completed her clinical requirements and was officially inducted as a Registered Nurse.

The post quickly went viral, drawing widespread admiration and congratulations from social media users who praised her resilience.

Reactions to Esther’s Success Story

@Beautyugo1: “This is awesome. I’m glad you didn’t give up. Congratulations Esther.”

@thefiola_: “I’m so happy for you…. Congratulations, you shall graduate well.”

@Justin176798381: “No this isn’t growth, but a success story.”

Many commenters described her achievement as motivational, especially for students facing repeated failures in entrance examinations.

Esther’s story comes at a time when the University of Ibadan recently inducted dozens of nursing graduates amid concerns over healthcare workforce challenges in Nigeria. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that persistence can overcome significant obstacles.

As she enters her final year, Esther’s experience is expected to inspire thousands of young Nigerians chasing their dreams in competitive fields like medicine and nursing.

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NewsPolitics

𝗘𝘅-𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗿𝗮 𝗴𝗼𝘃 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗔𝗔𝗖 𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 ‎ ‎

by Women Times on

Awka, Nigeria – May 21, 2026

By Prosper Mene 

Chioma Grace Ifemeludike, the former African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate in the 2025 Anambra State election, has emerged as the party’s senatorial candidate for Anambra Central Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Her emergence was announced following what party sources described as a consensus arrangement within the AAC structures in Anambra State. Ifemeludike, a Nollywood actress, filmmaker, activist, and politician, contested the November 2025 governorship poll under the AAC banner, where she gained significant public attention for her grassroots campaign and unconventional style.

In her acceptance statement, Ifemeludike expressed gratitude to party leaders and members for the opportunity, pledging to deliver quality representation, promote good governance, and champion the interests of the people of Anambra Central if elected.

“I am honoured by this call to serve at the senatorial level. Anambra Central deserves focused, accountable, and people-oriented representation that tackles infrastructure deficits, youth unemployment, and economic empowerment,” she said.

Ifemeludike’s transition from the governorship race to the senatorial contest is viewed by political observers as a strategic move to build on her visibility from the 2025 polls and strengthen the AAC’s presence in Anambra politics. The party, known for its leftist and revolutionary ideology under national leader Omoyele Sowore, has been working to expand its footprint in the South East.

Anambra Central Senatorial District, which includes key local government areas such as Awka North and South, Idemili North and South, and Anaocha, is traditionally competitive, with major parties expected to field strong candidates for the 2027 polls.

Stakeholders within the AAC have welcomed her candidacy, describing her as a vibrant voice capable of mobilising young people and women in the district. Her supporters highlight her commitment to integrity, social justice, and inclusive development.

As political activities gradually heat up towards 2027, Ifemeludike’s entry is expected to add vibrancy to the senatorial race and further position the AAC as an alternative platform in Anambra State politics.

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Relationship

Temi Otedola and Mr Eazi Announce They Are Expecting Their First Child

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nigerian actress, fashion influencer, and daughter of billionaire Femi Otedola, Temi Otedola, and her husband, acclaimed singer and entrepreneur Mr Eazi (Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade), have joyfully announced they are expecting their first child together.

The couple made the heartfelt reveal on Thursday through a joint Instagram post featuring elegant maternity photographs of Temi showcasing her baby bump. Temi captioned the post with a touching biblical verse from Jeremiah 1:5: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, Before you were born I set you apart 🪽.”

The announcement has sent waves of excitement across social media, with fans, celebrities, and well-wishers flooding the comments with congratulatory messages. Many have noted the couple’s long-standing relationship, which culminated in a lavish multi-continental wedding, and expressed delight at this new milestone.

Temi Otedola, known for her acting roles, style influence, and entrepreneurial ventures, and Mr Eazi, a pioneer in the Afrobeats global movement and founder of emPawa Africa, have long been celebrated as one of Nigeria’s power couples. Their union blends entertainment, business acumen, and philanthropy.

Details about the expected due date have not been publicly disclosed, but sources close to the family describe the couple as “over the moon” with anticipation.

Friends and family, including Temi’s sister Cuppy Otedola, are expected to play active roles in the upcoming arrival.

Congratulations continue to pour in for the Ajibade and Otedola families as they prepare to welcome the newest addition.

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News

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

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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NewsLifestyle

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

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

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

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

Preparation for First Lady Role

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

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

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

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

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

Courtship and Controversial Wedding

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

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

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

Broader Context in the Autobiography

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

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

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