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Katsina Hosts North-West Governors’ Summit to Advance Nigeria for Women Project, Empowering Women Across the Region.

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By Prosper Mene 

The Katsina State Government, under the leadership of Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, hosted a landmark two-day North-West Governors’ Summit on July 2-3, 2025, focused on advancing the Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up (NFWPSU). The summit, held in Katsina, brought together governors, the World Bank, policymakers, and changemakers to strategize on institutionalizing a future where women in the North-West region are economically empowered, socially secure, and politically visible.

The Nigeria for Women Project, a federal initiative supported by the World Bank, aims to address the region’s 47% financial exclusion rate, a key driver of poverty, by scaling up access to credit, markets, and financial literacy for women. The summit highlighted the urgent need to empower women, who make up half of Nigeria’s population, as a cornerstone of sustainable development. Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, emphasized this during her address, stating, “No nation can thrive while excluding half its population. This is a national imperative.”

Katsina State, one of only two states, alongside Ekiti state to begin community-level implementation of the NFWPSU, has already formed Women Affinity Groups (WAGs) to foster economic empowerment. Governor Radda announced that over two million women in Katsina alone are expected to benefit from the project, with initiatives like blended finance vehicles to crowd-in private and philanthropic capital to support women’s cooperatives and expand local value chains.

“This summit is about action, not just talk,” said a representative from the Katsina State Government. “We are committed to unlocking the potential of women to drive economic growth, reduce social vices, and build resilient communities.” The event featured discussions on scaling Women Affinity Groups, enhancing financial inclusion, and integrating women into formal economic systems to break the cycle of small-scale activities.

The Federal Government, in collaboration with the World Bank, aims to empower 460,000 women across six North-West states through this initiative, with Katsina leading the charge.

As the Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up gains momentum, Katsina’s proactive leadership sets a model for other states, citing a bold commitment to a future where women’s economic, social, and political empowerment drives regional progress.

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Federal Government Partners with Sytiamo Technologies to Empower Market Women with Affordable Credit Across Nigeria

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By Prosper Mene 

In efforts to boost financial inclusion and empower women in Nigeria’s informal economy, the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), has announced a transformative partnership with Sytiamo Technologies. The initiative aims to provide affordable, collateral-free credit to 10,000 market women across 224 markets in 28 states, starting with the vibrant Ariaria International Market in Aba, Abia State.The program, which seeks to strengthen the economic backbone of Nigeria’s markets, has already empowered over 1,000 women in Ariaria with access to up to ₦100,000 each in low-interest inventory financing.

This effort is designed to enable market women to expand their businesses, increase productivity, and improve their livelihoods without the burden of prohibitive loan terms.“Through this partnership, we are giving market women quick access to the capital they need to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods,” said Mr. Michael Ogbaa, Managing Director of Sytiamo Technologies. “This is about creating sustainable economic opportunities for women who are the heartbeat of Nigeria’s informal economy.”

Speaking at the program’s launch in Ariaria, Mr. Uzoma Nwagba, Managing Director of CREDICORP, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative. “Supporting women with credit is not just a social good; it’s good business. Women are proven to be better custodians of credit, with higher repayment rates than men. With 66.7% of our executive team and 50% of our management being women, this partnership reflects our deep belief that empowering women builds more resilient communities,” he said.

The partnership is in synce with Nigeria’s economic goals of fostering financial inclusion, reducing poverty, and driving growth in the informal sector. By providing accessible credit without collateral, the initiative removes longstanding barriers that have prevented market women from scaling their businesses. Chinyere Okoro, President of the Ariaria Textile Market Women Association, praised the program, noting its potential to transform lives and local economies.

As the program rolls out to additional markets across the 28 states, it is expected to create a ripple effect, fostering economic resilience and empowering women to drive growth in Nigeria’s vibrant market ecosystem.

 

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Hit-and-Run Victim Faces N5m Surgery Bill After Hospital Neglect Over N150k

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By Prosper Mene 

Comfort, a victim of a hit-and-run accident, is now struggling with a N5 million medical bill for life-saving surgery after a hospital allegedly neglected her initial treatment due to an unpaid N150,000 deposit. The incident, which has sparked outrage, showcases the dire consequences of financial barriers in accessing timely healthcare. 

According to Comfort, she was rushed to the hospital following the accident, but the facility refused to commence treatment without the N150,000 upfront payment. Unable to pay immediately, her condition worsened, escalating from a treatable injury to a critical state requiring complex surgery costing N5 million. “I was left in pain, begging for help, but they turned me away because I couldn’t pay,” Comfort recounted, with her voice heavy with frustration.The delay in treatment has left Comfort with severe complications, and she is now facing a race against time to raise funds for the procedure. Her family has appealed for public support, as the exorbitant cost is far beyond their means.

The heartbreaking case has ignited discussions on social media, with many condemning the hospital’s actions and calling for reforms in Nigeria’s healthcare system to prioritize patient care over profit.

This tragic story focus on the larger issue of healthcare accessibility in Nigeria, where financial constraints often determine who gets treated and who doesn’t. In the meantime as Comfort’s family scrambles to raise the funds, her plight serves as a reminder of the urgent need for systemic change to ensure no one is denied care due to inability to pay.

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Over 900 AXA Mansard Employees Join Efforts to Combat Violence Against Girls and Children

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Over 900 staff members of Nigeria’s leading insurance company, AXA Mansard, have actively participated in initiatives aimed at combating domestic and sexual violence against children nationwide. These efforts coincided with the company’s annual social responsibility event, AXA Week for Good, where employees engaged in community outreach, education, and advocacy across Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.

As part of the program, hundreds of employees visited schools to educate students and teachers on recognizing, preventing, and reporting violence. This initiative is a core component of AXA Hearts In Action (AHIA)—a volunteer platform encouraging staff to contribute their time, expertise, and resources to societal causes.

Rashidat Adebisi, Chief Client Officer of AXA Mansard, emphasized the importance of collective action: “Our employees are not just giving time; they are working together for a better future. We share our knowledge to protect vulnerable communities and support human progress.”

Under the theme “Being a Girl Shouldn’t Be A Risk,” staff also participated in awareness walks designed to highlight the threats faced by girls in Nigeria and the importance of safeguarding their rights. Adebisi pointed out that Nigeria’s 105 million children—half of the country’s population—are at risk, with data revealing that 60% of children experience some form of violence before turning 18.

She stressed that protecting children and particularly girls is vital for Nigeria’s future and the continent’s development. “Our goal is to ensure that every girl has a safe space and access to help, and to eliminate perpetrators of violence,” she said.

In 2024, over 23,000 volunteering hours were logged by more than half of AXA Mansard employees, reflecting the company’s deep commitment to social impact. By empowering staff to take meaningful action, AXA Mansard continues to demonstrate that corporate responsibility extends beyond business—aiming to create a safer, more inclusive society for all.

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Saint Lucia’s Deep Nigerian Roots Highlighted During Historic State visit

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By Prosper Mene 

In an address to a joint session of Saint Lucia’s bicameral parliament, Senate President Alvina Reynolds pointed out the profound ancestral ties between Saint Lucia and Nigeria, citing a British census from 1815 that revealed most of the island’s formerly enslaved residents were of Nigerian origin. The remarks came during a historic state visit by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, marking the first time a Nigerian leader has officially visited the Caribbean nation. Reynolds referenced the 1815 census, which recorded 16,282 enslaved people in Saint Lucia, of whom 3,488 were born in Africa. Of these, 34% hailed from Nigeria, 11% from the Nigeria-Cameroon region, and 22% from the Congo, with the remaining 12,794 born locally but primarily descended from Senegambia and Nigeria. “The legacy of the transatlantic slave trade, spanning over 350 years, forged an unbreakable historical and cultural link between Africa and the Caribbean,” Reynolds declared, pointing out the enduring connection between the two regions.

The visit, described as a “symbolic moment of cultural reconnection,” highlighted shared history and mutual aspirations. Reynolds paid tribute to Sir Darnley Alexander, a Saint Lucian who served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979, the only non-Nigerian to hold the post in the country’s post-independence history. She also noted the contributions of Nigerian Catholic priests serving in Saint Lucia, including Father Festus, who attended the session as a special guest.

Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre repeated Reynolds’ sentiments, calling the visit a “moment of freedom and celebration” and describing Saint Lucia as “a small fragment of Africa” with a “genetic Nigerian connection that cannot be erased.” In a lighthearted comparison, Pierre noted that Saint Lucia’s population is smaller than that of Eti-Osa Local Government in Lagos State, yet emphasized the island’s pride as a sovereign nation with a deep connection to Nigeria and West Africa.

President Tinubu’s visit, a broader effort to strengthen Nigeria’s ties with the Caribbean, included discussions on cooperation in tourism, air connectivity, creative industries, sports, banking, fintech, renewable energy, and medical collaboration. An agreement to deploy Nigerian medical professionals to Saint Lucia is also being finalized, kickstarting a new chapter in bilateral relations.

The event, which coincided with World Parliament Day, saw Tinubu praised as a “fighter for democracy” by local commentators. Over 300 guests, including diplomats and members of the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia, attended the session, reflecting growing interest in a Nigeria-Caribbean alliance built on shared heritage and mutual respect.

As Saint Lucia and Nigeria deepen their diplomatic and cultural ties, Reynolds’ address serves as a vital reminder of the island’s African roots, with Nigeria’s influence over its history and identity.

 

 

 

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Islamic Scholar Remanded in Kwara Prison Over Defamation

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By Prosper Mene 

An Upper Area Court in Ganmo, Kwara State, has ordered the remand of prominent Islamic scholar Alhaja Kafilat Kaola at the Oke Kura Correctional Facility in Ilorin, following a defamation lawsuit filed by another well-known cleric, Alhaji Taofeek Akeugbagold.

The case originates from allegations that Alhaja Kaola made defamatory statements against Akeugbagold, prompting him to seek legal redress. During Monday’s court proceedings, Kaola’s counsel pleaded for bail, citing her public status and assuring the court she would not abscond. However, the plaintiff’s counsel, Ajasa Ademola, opposed the bail application, arguing that Kaola was not entitled to such privilege under the law. Ademola presented a viral video as evidence, in which Kaola allegedly disparaged a judge and a lawyer in a previous legal matter, further supporting his objection to bail.After hearing arguments from both sides, the presiding judge ruled that Alhaja Kaola be held in custody at Oke Kura Correctional Centre pending further legal proceedings.

The case has ignited discussions on social media, with some questioning the pursuit of legal action between religious leaders who often preach peace and unity. “When two religious leaders take each other to court, where is the unity, peace, and forgiveness they preach?” asked a user on X. Others, however, argue that seeking justice should not be overlooked, regardless of shared faith. Alhaja Kaola, a respected female Islamic cleric and school proprietor, and Alhaji Taofeek Akeugbagold, a prominent figure in the Islamic community, are both influential voices in Kwara State. The case is set to continue, with further hearings expected to address the defamation claims and the evidence presented.

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UK-Based Nigerian Carer Caught on Camera Abusing Elderly Dementia Patient Days Before His Death

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By Prosper Mene 

A shocking incident involving a Nigerian-born carer, Bilikesu Olagunju, was filmed violently mistreating an 88-year-old dementia patient, John Attard, just days before his death. The abuse, captured on a hidden camera installed by the victim’s son, occurred on Christmas Eve 2022 at Mr. Attard’s home in Bexley, Kent, where Olagunju had been employed as a care worker for only six days.The distressing footage, presented at Woolwich Crown Court, showed Olagunju, 42, stripping the frail pensioner, dragging him by his arm and collar, and ignoring his repeated cries of pain. At one point, she threatened, “Maybe I will beat you up. I will flog you. I will take you to the GP to get injections. I will call the police on you.” The video also revealed Olagunju pouring marmalade into Mr. Attard’s coffee, despite knowing he was diabetic, further endangering his health.On Christmas morning, Mr. Attard was found unresponsive by his son, Chris Attard, with blood streaming down his face. He was rushed to the hospital but never regained consciousness, passing away ten days later. While a post-mortem examination could not conclusively link the abuse to his death, Chris Attard firmly believes the trauma contributed to his father’s sudden decline. “If those cameras had not been there, that person could still be out there treating elderly people like this,” he said, describing the lenient sentence as “an insult.”Olagunju, employed by Unique Personnel UK, pleaded guilty to one count of ill-treatment or willful neglect of a person lacking mental capacity. She was sentenced to a six-week prison term, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to complete 50 hours of unpaid community service. During the hearing, Olagunju expressed remorse, with her lawyer citing her lack of proper training and recent arrival in the UK as mitigating factors. However, Judge Charlotte Welsh emphasized that the absence of training did not justify her actions, stating, “Your actions are evident of your failure to treat Mr. Attard as a person deserving of as much dignity and respect as the rest of us.”Chris Attard has since turned his focus to the care agency, accusing Unique Personnel UK of negligence for assigning an inadequately trained carer to a vulnerable client. “They should have been in the dock alongside Olagunju,” he said, vowing to expose the company’s shortcomings.The case has reignited calls for stricter oversight and mandatory training in the care industry, with many pinpointing the need for better safeguards to protect vulnerable individuals.

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Khadijah Okunnu-Lamidi Champions Women’s Leadership and Equality at Global Women Leaders Summit

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By Azeez Disu

Khadijah Okunnu-Lamidi, Founder and CEO of Slice Media and a former presidential aspirant, made a significant mark at this year’s Global Women Leaders Summit hosted by the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security. The summit brought together high-achieving women leaders from around the world to exchange ideas, strategies, and foster meaningful connections aimed at advancing gender equality, democracy, and peace.

During the summit, Khadijah, who is also the Founder of KOL Foundation, participated in the launch of the Women Changemakers Initiative—an ambitious cross-border, intergenerational platform designed to promote collective action among women leaders at all levels. In a statement, she expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, “It was an honor to participate in this year’s Global Women Leaders Summit chaired by Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton. I joined a group of distinguished leaders to exchange ideas and strategies for advancing equality, democracy, and peace globally. Together, we launched the Women Changemakers Initiative; a cross-border, intergenerational platform to promote collective action and foster meaningful connections for women leading at all levels.

Khadijah further added, “For now, I will let the vision speak for itself. You are invited to explore the conversation across my social platforms. Talking points and next steps will follow shortly.” She encouraged followers to stay tuned for updates and insights from the ongoing discussions.

The Global Female Leaders Summit is renowned for convening influential women from various sectors, providing a platform for networking, inspiration, and collaboration on critical global issues.

Khadijah’s journey into community influence began early—she secured her first job at age 16 at The Motherless Babies Home Lekki. She later worked at the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) for four years before venturing into entrepreneurship to establish Slice Media Solutions, a prominent advertising agency.

Notably, Khadijah was the first woman in Nigeria to declare interest in contesting the 2023 presidential election. She has also been featured as the cover story in Out-Of-Home Magazine, Nigeria’s leading out-of-home advertising publication, and recognized as one of the Top 50 Women in Marketing & Communication in the country.

A passionate advocate for gender balance and youth development, Khadijah is behind several impactful initiatives, including Water Relief Nigeria, Help Our Youth (HOY), To Better Nigeria, and Project: Bridge the Gap.

Her participation at the summit underscores her commitment to empowering women and fostering socio-economic development through innovative leadership and community engagement.

 

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Nigerian Woman’s Viral Radio Plea for Love Sparks Global Marriage Proposal

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By Prosper Mene 

During a heartfelt moment that has captivated audiences worldwide, a 46-year-old Nigerian woman, choosing to remain anonymous, shared her deep personal story of lifelong virginity and loneliness on Agidigbo FM’s popular talk show, Kokoro Alate, hosted by Oriyomi Hamzat. The emotional interview, aired in Ibadan, Nigeria, entailed her struggles with societal pressures, her commitment to her values, and her longing for companionship after years of solitude. What followed was an extraordinary response: marriage proposals from suitors in Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as reported by Agidigbo FM.

During the broadcast, the woman candidly discussed the challenges of maintaining her virginity in a culture where such choices are often stigmatized. She spoke of her desire for a meaningful relationship, explaining how her commitment to her principles had led to a life of isolation, with few opportunities for romance. Her vulnerability resonated with listeners, many of whom were moved by her courage to share such a private struggle on a public platform. “I’ve been alone for so long,” she reportedly said, her voice breaking with emotion, “but I still hope for someone who will understand and value me.”

The response was swift and overwhelming. Within hours of the broadcast, the radio station received an influx of messages from listeners offering support, encouragement, and, remarkably, marriage proposals. Agidigbo FM confirmed that men from Nigeria and as far afield as the UK and US reached out, expressing admiration for the woman’s strength and sincerity. Some suitors shared their own stories of searching for a partner who values commitment and authenticity, while others were inspired by her resilience in the face of societal judgment.

The station, respecting the woman’s request for anonymity, has not disclosed specific details about the suitors or the number of proposals, but sources close to the program described the response as “unprecedented.” The Guardian Nigeria reported on June 27, 2025, that the woman is currently being supported by the station’s team as she navigates the unexpected attention. “We are ensuring her privacy and well-being come first,” a spokesperson for Agidigbo FM stated. “She is overwhelmed but grateful for the love shown to her.”

This heartwarming story has ignited discussions across social media and in Nigerian communities about societal expectations and the pressures faced by single women. On platforms like X, users have praised the woman’s bravery, with some calling her story a reminder that “it’s never too late to find love.” Others have highlighted the role of media in amplifying personal narratives, with Kokoro Alate gaining recognition for providing a platform for such authentic conversations.

The woman’s journey has also shed light on the cultural dynamics surrounding marriage and personal choices in Nigeria, where traditional expectations often clash with individual values.

Her story has touched people worldwide, showing that loneliness and hope are universal feelings. Many have responded with support, proving that personal stories can connect people globally.

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Nigerian Woman Arrested in Bengaluru for Role in Transnational Cocaine Network

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By Prosper Mene 

A 41-year-old Nigerian woman, identified as Sarah Kumama, also known by aliases “Happiness” and “Blessings,” was arrested in Bengaluru on Thursday, June 26, 2025, for her alleged involvement in a sprawling transnational cocaine distribution network. The arrest, executed by a special team from the Anti-Narcotics Intelligence Unit (ANIU) and Greater Chennai Police, marks a significant breakthrough in a months-long crackdown that has led to the apprehension of 25 individuals across Tamil Nadu since January.

The operation began on January 25, 2025, when Choolaimedu Police, acting on a tip-off, arrested Fayas Ahamed, 31, of Royapettah, and S. Chandrasekar, 35, of Koyambedu, in Chennai, seizing cocaine in their possession. Their confessions unraveled a complex drug cartel, leading to the arrest of 24 others, including two Nigerian nationals—one from Bengaluru and another from Mumbai—prior to Kumama’s apprehension. Analysis of call records and bank transactions revealed Kumama’s critical role in the network, prompting authorities to track her down in Bengaluru.

According to police sources, the syndicate operated across multiple cities, including Chennai, Bengaluru, and Mumbai, with connections extending internationally. Kumama, who went into hiding after earlier arrests of her associates, was identified as a key link in the cocaine supply chain, facilitating distribution to peddlers in Chennai and beyond. The investigation also uncovered ties to high-profile individuals, including Tamil actors Srikanth and Krishna, who were arrested earlier this week for allegedly purchasing cocaine from the cartel.

The Greater Chennai Police, in coordination with the ANIU, have intensified efforts to dismantle the network, with ongoing investigations to identify additional associates. Authorities seized narcotics, mobile phones, and cash during related operations, underscoring the scale of the racket. The bust highlights the growing challenge of transnational drug trafficking in India, with synthetic drugs like cocaine and MDMA increasingly prevalent in urban centers.

“This isn’t just a case of drug peddling; it’s an organized transnational racket targeting Indian youth,” said a senior police official involved in the operation. The public is urged to report drug-related activities confidentially via the Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau helpline at 1908 or email tsnabho-hyd@tspolice.gov.in.

The case has sent shockwaves through Tamil Nadu, raising concerns about the nexus between drug cartels and influential figures. Further arrests and seizures are anticipated as the investigation continues to unfold.

 

 

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