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Food Influencer Ify Mogekwu Becomes Face of Supreme Semolina in New Partnership

by Women Times on

Crown Flour Mill (CFM) Limited, a leading wheat milling and pasta producer under Olam Agri Nigeria, has officially appointed renowned culinary expert and global food influencer Ify Mogekwu as the brand ambassador for its flagship product, Supreme Semolina.

The partnership was unveiled during a prestigious event on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at CFM’s Tin Can facility in Apapa, Lagos. Ify Mogekwu, founder of Ify’s Kitchen, captivates over 7 million food enthusiasts worldwide with her vibrant Nigerian and African recipes. She is a two-time Gage Award winner for Food Vlogger of the Year (2023 & 2024) and a recognized YouTube Black Voices Creator, celebrated for her engaging storytelling and culinary creativity.

The event featured a symbolic cultural moment: the ceremonial crowning of Ify Mogekwu as the official ambassador of Supreme Semolina. The crowning was performed by notable figures including HRM Eze (Dr.) Vitus U. Kasa, Okwadike Assa II of Assa Kingdom, Imo State; Chief Bolaji Anifowose, Peace Broker of the Master Bakers Association of Lagos; and Alhaji Yahaya Fufore, Dangaladima and Council Member of Fufore Emirate. This act underscored the product’s cultural significance and broad national appeal, emphasizing Supreme Semolina’s role in uniting Nigerians through quality, trust, and tradition.

This announcement follows the successful relaunch of Supreme Semolina in late 2024, which introduced improved texture, longer shelf life, and enhanced cooking quality—reflecting Olam Agri’s dedication to delivering nutritious, affordable, and high-quality food for Nigerian families.

Siddharth Suri, Vice President and Business Head at CFM, expressed enthusiasm: “At Olam Agri, we see food as more than sustenance; it’s about culture, connection, and wellbeing. Ify’s dedication to quality and authenticity aligns perfectly with our mission. This partnership helps us enrich everyday meals and deepen our impact across Nigerian homes.”

Nitin Mehta, Managing Director and Business Head at CFM, highlighted the strategic importance: “This isn’t just an endorsement; it’s a purposeful alliance. Ify’s influence brings both relatability and authority. Supreme Semolina stands for innovation, fortified with essential nutrients, delivering exceptional taste and texture. Together, we’re promoting good food, good health, and a stronger food system in Nigeria.”

Expressing her pride, Ify Mogekwu said, “It’s truly an honor to be named brand ambassador for Supreme Semolina. The product embodies quality, consistency, and nourishment—values I cherish. I look forward to sharing its benefits with more families across Nigeria and beyond.”

Bola Adeniji, General Manager and Head of Marketing at Olam Agri Nigeria, reflected on the brand’s legacy: “Since 2004, Supreme Semolina has been a staple in Nigerian households. Our 2024 relaunch focused on fortification, innovation, and improving the consumer experience. With Ify’s partnership and the cultural recognition at this event, we’re elevating the brand to reach more people and support our vision for a food-secure Nigeria.”

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Marta Shines as Brazil Wins Ninth Copa América Femenina Title

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By Prosper Mene 

‎At 39, Brazilian football legend Marta Vieira da Silva proved she’s still a game-changer, leading Brazil to their ninth Copa América Femenina title in a thrilling 5-4 penalty shootout win over Colombia on August 2, 2025. The match, held at Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium, ended 4-4 after extra time, with Marta’s heroics stealing the show.

‎Coming off the bench in the 82nd minute with Brazil down 2-1, Marta made a comeback. Colombia took the lead through Linda Caicedo, but Angelina Alonso’s penalty tied it up before halftime.

‎Colombia went ahead again with an own goal by Brazil’s Tarciane, only for Amanda Gutierres to equalize. When Colombia scored late to lead 3-2, Marta’s stunning stoppage-time strike forced extra time. She then put Brazil ahead 4-3 in extra time, but Colombia’s Leicy Santos tied it at 4-4.

‎In the shootout, Marta’s penalty was saved, but goalkeeper Lorena Da Silva saved two shots, including one in sudden death, to secure Brazil’s victory.

‎Marta, named Player of the Tournament, celebrated her fourth Copa América title and Brazil’s fifth straight, cementing her legacy as a football icon. The win also earned Brazil a spot in the 2027 Pan American Games and 2028 Olympics.

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New Zealand Woman Arrested After Toddler Found Trapped in Suitcase on Bus

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By Prosper Mene 

‎A 27-year-old New Zealand woman was arrested on Sunday, August 3, 2025, after a two-year-old girl was discovered trapped inside a suitcase during a bus journey, reported by police. 

‎The shocking incident unfolded at a bus depot in Kaiwaka, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) north of Auckland, when a vigilant bus driver noticed unusual movement in a bag during a scheduled stop.

‎Detective Inspector Simon Harrison said police were called to the scene after the driver opened the suitcase and found the toddler inside. “The little girl was reported to be very hot but otherwise appeared physically unharmed,” Harrison told reporters. The luggage had been stored in a separate compartment beneath the bus passengers, raising concerns about the child’s safety during the journey.The woman, whose relationship to the child has not been disclosed, was charged with ill-treatment and neglect of a child. Harrison indicated that further charges are possible as the investigation continues.

‎ The toddler was taken to a hospital for a thorough medical assessment and is reported to be in stable condition. New Zealand’s Ministry for Children, Oranga Tamariki, has been notified and is involved in the case.

‎Harrison praised the bus driver’s quick thinking, stating, “The driver’s actions prevented what could have been a far worse outcome.” The incident has caused widespread concern about child safety raising questions about the importance of vigilance in public spaces. The investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances that led to the child being placed in the suitcase.

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D’Tigress Roar to Fifth Consecutive AfroBasket Final with 75-68 Victory Over Senegal

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, secured their place in the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket final after a thrilling 75-68 comeback win against Senegal on Saturday at the Palais des Sports de Treichville.

The victory marks Nigeria’s fifth straight final appearance, keeping their dream of a record-extending fifth consecutive title alive.

‎In a match dubbed the “final before the final,” D’Tigress faced a fierce challenge from their long-time rivals, Senegal, led by former D’Tigress coach Otis Hughley Jr. Nigeria started strong, leading 22-17 after the first quarter and holding a 43-37 advantage at halftime. However, Senegal surged ahead in the third quarter, outscoring Nigeria 21-9 to take a 58-52 lead. Undeterred, D’Tigress mounted a stunning 23-10 run in the fourth quarter, driven by Ezinne Kalu’s 19 points, Promise Amukamara’s 16 points, and Amy Okonkwo’s 15 points, to seal the victory.Coach Rena Wakama’s squad showcased resilience, overcoming an eight-point deficit in the final period to extend their unbeaten AfroBasket streak to 28 games since 2015. Senegal’s Cierra Dillard led all scorers with 26 points, but Nigeria’s balanced attack and relentless defense proved decisive.

‎D’Tigress now await the winner of the Mali-South Sudan semi-final in Sunday’s championship game, as they aim to cement their legacy as Africa’s basketball powerhouse. The win also secures Nigeria’s spot in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifying tournaments.Hon.

‎Adeyinka Adeboye, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, praised the team’s “indomitable Nigerian spirit,” calling the comeback a symbol of unity and courage. Fans on echoed the excitement, celebrating D’Tigress’ ninth consecutive win over Senegal.

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‎Super Falcons’ Rasheedat Ajibade Shares Journey from Hawking to Football

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade inspired many at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) Prayer City in Ogun State, while sharing her story of rising from hawking olive oil and zobo to leading Nigeria to victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Speaking at MFM’s “Power Must Change Hands” service, the 25-year-old Atletico Madrid star presented her WAFCON medal and awards to MFM General Overseer, Dr. Daniel Olukoya, and his wife, Shade.

‎Ajibade recalled selling olive oil and zobo during church programs as a young girl. “I was one of those girls hawking at deliverance services, but today, I thank God,” she said. Her faith and hard work helped her overcome challenges, leading Nigeria to a 3-2 win over Morocco in the 2024 WAFCON final, where she won Player of the Tournament.

‎She gifted the Olukoyas a Super Falcons jersey with “OLUKOYA 01” and urged young people, especially girls, to keep praying and working hard. “Don’t give up. Keep believing,” she said. Pastor Olukoya called her success a “testimony of God’s grace,” and MFM celebrated her on social media.

‎Ajibade’s story is a powerful example of faith and determination, inspiring young Nigerians to chase their dreams.

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‎Tinubu Names Majekodunmi as New Climate Change Council DG

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By Prosper Mene 

‎President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Mrs. Omotenioye Majekodunmi as the new Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), effective immediately. She succeeds Dr. Nkiruka Madueke, who served as the council’s pioneer head since June 2024.

‎Majekodunmi, a seasoned climate finance expert and environmental lawyer with over 17 years of experience, previously held the role of NCCC Financial Adviser. Her work has been pivotal in shaping Nigeria’s climate policies and strengthening its international engagements on renewable energy, carbon markets, and climate governance. She also founded Ecoxchange, where she consulted for the Lagos Waste Management Authority on waste-to-energy initiatives.

‎The appointment, announced by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, shows the Tinubu administration’s commitment to tackling climate change as a driver of sustainable economic growth, national security, and social inclusion.

‎President Tinubu praised Madueke for her dedicated service and for laying a strong foundation for the council’s progress.Environmental stakeholders have welcomed Majekodunmi’s appointment, citing her expertise as critical for advancing Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Paris Agreement commitments amid challenges like flooding and desertification.

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‎FG Warns Young Women Against Risky Online Relationships

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‎By Prosper Mene

‎The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a stern warning to young women to exercise caution when forming relationships through social media, citing a surge in digital exploitation cases.

The advisory, shared via a statement from the Ministry of Women Affairs, highlights growing concerns over online scams, harassment, and abuse targeting young women on dating platforms and social media.The government pointed to rising incidents of catfishing, financial scams, and non-consensual sharing of intimate images without permission as key risks associated with online relationships. “Young women are particularly vulnerable to predators who exploit trust built through digital platforms,” the statement read, urging users to verify identities and avoid sharing personal information with strangers online.

‎Officials noted that romance scams have increased significantly, with perpetrators often posing as romantic partners to manipulate victims into sending money or explicit content. The warning comes as reports of young women facing emotional and financial harm after engaging with unverified individuals online.The Ministry emphasized the importance of digital literacy and encouraged young women to seek guidance from trusted adults when navigating online relationships. “The internet can be a dangerous space if not approached with caution,” the statement added, advising users to report suspicious behavior to authorities immediately.The government has pledged to collaborate with tech companies to enhance online safety measures and raise awareness about the risks of unverified digital interactions. Women’s advocacy groups have amplified the call, urging social media platforms to strengthen protections against online abuse.For more information on staying safe online, the Ministry directs citizens to resources available at www.onlinesafety.gov.ng.[(https://x.com/MobilePunch/status/1951013364420747338) (http://www.onlinesafety.gov.ng.[(https://x.com/MobilePunch/status/1951013364420747338

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NANNM Vows to Continue Strike Until Federal Government Shows Commitment ‎

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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.

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

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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.

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‎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.

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

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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.

 

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