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Nollywood Mourns the Loss of Veteran Actress Nkechi Nweje

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

The Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, is reeling from yet another devastating loss as veteran actress Nkechi Nweje passed away this morning, plunging fans and colleagues into deep sorrow.

The heartbreaking news has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community, with tributes pouring in for the beloved star known for her remarkable talent and warm presence.

Nkechi Nweje, a respected figure in Nollywood, reportedly succumbed to a brief illness, though details surrounding her death remain limited at this time. The announcement of her passing was met with an outpouring of grief from across the industry, as colleagues and admirers reflected on her impactful career and the indelible mark she left on Nigerian cinema.

Movie producer Stanley Ajemba, popularly known as Stanley Ontop, was among the first to confirm the tragic news. In an emotional statement shared on social media, he wrote, “Nollywood in tears as we lost one of our vibrant Nollywood actresses, @nkechi.nweje, after a brief illness. Couldn’t post since morning because it was like a dream to me. Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha, rest in peace ma’am, my best friend.” His words captured the profound shock and sadness felt by many who knew and worked with her.

Nkechi Nweje was celebrated for her compelling performances, particularly in motherly roles that resonated deeply with audiences. With a career spanning over a decade, she brought authenticity and heart to every character she portrayed, earning her a special place in the hearts of fans and a lasting legacy in Nollywood. Hailing from Onicha Ado in Anambra State, she embodied the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria through her work, inspiring countless young actors and actresses along the way.

Fellow Nollywood stars have joined in mourning her loss. Actress Rita Edochie shared a poignant tribute on Instagram, posting a candlelight image with the caption, “This world is really not our home.” Actor Asa Ikuku also paid his respects, writing, “Rest in peace mummy Nkechi Nweje TV (Nwanyi Onisha). You are indeed a blessing to us. But God knows the best. We will miss u so much great Nollywood actress. Rest on legend.”

The news of Nkechi Nweje’s passing comes at a time when Nollywood has faced a series of losses, further deepening the sense of grief within the industry. Just days ago, the community was still mourning other fallen stars, and Nweje’s death serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life.

As fans and loved ones bid farewell to this iconic actress, they hold onto the memories of her vibrant spirit and the stories she brought to life on screen. Nkechi Nweje leaves behind her husband, and a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

May her soul rest in peace.

 

 

 

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NewsPoliticsTrending

Political Crisis in Rivers State Sparks Fears for Women’s Safety Amid Emergency Declaration.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

A deepening political crisis in Rivers State, triggered by President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency earlier this week, has raised urgent concerns about the safety and well-being of women in the oil-rich region. The unrest, sparked by the vandalism of critical oil infrastructure, including a recent blast on the Trans-Niger Pipeline, has displaced families, disrupted livelihoods, and left women particularly vulnerable to the fallout.

On March 18, President Tinubu announced the emergency measures in a nationwide broadcast, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all state lawmakers for six months. Citing “disturbing incidents of pipeline vandalism” and a lack of action from the state government, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the military administrator to oversee Rivers State. The decision has intensified an already volatile political rift between Fubara’s administration and lawmakers loyal to his predecessor, further destabilizing the region.

While the emergency declaration aims to restore order, its ripple effects are being felt most acutely by women. “Conflict always hits women hardest,” said Ebiere Okonkwo, a Port Harcourt-based women’s rights advocate. “When families are uprooted and markets shut down, women bear the brunt—struggling to feed their children, facing increased violence, and losing what little economic stability they had.” Reports from local communities indicate that the heightened military presence and uncertainty have restricted movement, limiting access to essential services like healthcare and food supplies.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has sharply criticized the suspension of elected officials, calling it “unconstitutional” and a threat to democratic governance. “Section 305 of the Constitution does not grant the President the power to dissolve a democratically elected government under the guise of emergency rule,” said NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe in a statement. The opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) echoed these concerns, labeling the move a “state capture” attempt by Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC).

Amid the political firestorm, women’s groups in Rivers State are sounding the alarm. The Rivers Women’s Coalition, a grassroots organization, has called for immediate action to protect vulnerable populations. “We’re seeing a rise in displacement and insecurity,” said coalition spokesperson Mercy Alabo. “The government must prioritize safe shelters, emergency aid, and measures to prevent gender-based violence as this crisis unfolds.”

The economic stakes are high. The Trans-Niger Pipeline, a vital artery for Nigeria’s oil exports, generates millions of dollars daily, and its disruption has compounded the state’s woes. Local residents fear that the combination of political instability and economic losses will deepen poverty, with women—who often manage household finances—left to pick up the pieces.

Women’s advocates are urging both federal and state authorities to address the human cost of the crisis. “This isn’t just about politics or oil,” Okonkwo emphasized. “It’s about the lives of women and families hanging in the balance. We need stability—and we need it now.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Space ExplorationTrending

Nigerian-American Astronaut Sunita Williams Returns to Earth After Historic 286-Day Space Mission.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Sunita “Suni” Williams, a Nigerian-American astronaut and celebrated space veteran, touched down safely off the coast of Florida today, concluding a record-breaking 286-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Williams, accompanied by fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, returned to Earth in a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, marking a triumphant end to an unexpectedly extended journey that showcased her resilience and expertise.

Originally scheduled for an eight-day mission, Williams’ stay in space stretched nearly ten months due to technical difficulties with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, which had initially transported the crew to the ISS. Undeterred, Williams adapted to the challenges, contributing to critical scientific experiments and maintenance aboard the orbiting laboratory. Her extended mission now ranks among the longest by a female astronaut in history, further cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in space exploration.

Born to an Indian-American father and a mother of Nigerian descent, Williams’ heritage has resonated deeply with Nigerian communities worldwide. Her achievements have sparked celebrations across the diaspora, with many hailing her as a symbol of Nigerian excellence on the global stage. “Suni’s determination and brilliance in space reflect the spirit of Nigeria,” said Adeola Okeke, a spokesperson for the Nigerian Women in STEM Initiative. “She’s an inspiration to young girls here and everywhere, proving that no dream is too big.”

A seasoned astronaut with prior missions in 2006 and 2012, Williams has now spent over 500 days in space across her career. During this latest mission, she conducted groundbreaking research in biology, physics, and materials science, while also captivating audiences with her updates from orbit. Her safe return has been met with widespread relief and pride, particularly after months of uncertainty surrounding the Starliner delays.

As Williams stepped out of the Dragon spacecraft, waving to the recovery team, she smiled broadly, embodying the grit and grace that have defined her journey. NASA Administrator Dr. Ellen Martinez praised her contributions, stating, “Sunita Williams has once again shown the world what dedication and skill look like in the face of adversity. Her mission has advanced our understanding of space and inspired millions.”

For Nigeria, Williams’ homecoming is more than a scientific milestone—it’s a cultural victory. Schools in Lagos and Abuja held watch parties for her landing, and social media buzzed with hashtags like #SuniInSpace and #NigerianStar. As she begins her recovery and debriefing, Williams remains an inspiration for aspiring scientists, particularly young women in STEM, proving that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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TrendingNewswomen across the world

Afghan Women’s Defiance Ignites Solidarity Protests in Nigeria.

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By Mene Prosper

In cities like Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt, hundreds gathered in peaceful marches, their voices amplified by the hashtag #WomenResist trending across social media. “What we’re seeing in Afghanistan is a mirror to our struggles here,” said Zainab Mohammed, a prominent activist in Kano, addressing a crowd outside the city’s central market. “When they stand up, we stand with them—because silence is not an option.”

The protests, unfolding at 9:49 PM WAT, linked the Afghan women’s courage to Nigeria’s persistent challenges, where recent surveys show one in three women still faces domestic violence.

 

The spark came from fresh accounts out of Afghanistan, where women have risked severe punishment to defy Taliban edicts, a story dominating global news cycles today. In Nigeria, organizers tied this resistance to local demands for stronger laws against gender-based violence and greater cultural freedoms, with placards reading “From Kabul to Kano: Women Rise.” The marches drew a diverse crowd—students, professionals, and traders—united in a rare cross-continental show of unity.

International human rights groups praised the Nigerian response, with UN Women noting on social media that such solidarity “lights a path toward global change.” Yet the protests also faced pushback, with some local voices questioning the focus on foreign struggles amid Nigeria’s own crises.

 

 

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NewsTrendingUncategorizedWomen of Substance

Controversy Surrounds NYSC Corps Member Raye Over Criticism of Scheme and Government.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

 

A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, identified as Raye, has found herself at the centre of a growing controversy after publicly criticising the NYSC and the Nigerian government. In a widely circulated video, the young woman, dressed in her official khaki uniform, expressed frustration over what she described as unfulfilled promises to corps members and broader issues of poor governance. Her candid remarks have ignited a fierce debate across the nation.

Rather than receiving widespread praise for her courage, Raye has faced significant backlash from some quarters.

Critics argue that her comments violate NYSC regulations, though a closer examination of the scheme’s bylaws reveals no explicit rule prohibiting such statements. The response from the public has been sharply divided, with some labelling her actions disrespectful, while others laud her as a voice for a disenchanted generation.

Adding weight to the discourse, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has publicly commended Raye, describing her as a “shining star” among Nigerian youth. In a statement, he likened her boldness to that of historical figures such as Gambo Sawaba and Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, celebrated activists known for their fearless advocacy. Atiku urged authorities to nurture rather than suppress such outspokenness, framing it as a sign of leadership potential.

Reports suggest that NYSC officials have taken disciplinary action, with allegations that Raye was summoned to a panel in Eti-Osa, Lagos, to answer for her statements. However, questions remain about the legal basis for any sanctions, as some observers, including an X user named Ebenezar, have pointed out the absence of a clear breach of protocol in the NYSC guidelines.

The situation has sparked a broader conversation about freedom of expression within the NYSC and the plight of Nigerian youth. Supporters have rallied under calls to “Free Raye,” arguing that her critique reflects widespread discontent, while detractors insist she overstepped the bounds of decorum expected from a corps member. As the controversy unfolds, Raye remains resolute, her stance unwavering amid the mounting pressure.

With Atiku’s endorsement amplifying her cause, the incident raises critical questions: Will the NYSC succeed in silencing this dissenting voice, or could Raye’s defiance mark the beginning of a larger movement among Nigeria’s youth? For now, the nation watches closely as this unfolding drama tests the boundaries of authority and individual conviction.

 

 

 

 

 

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PoliticsNewsTrendingWomen of Substance

Senator Natasha vs. Akpabio: Scandal Deepens as Probes and Protests Escalate.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

 

 

The political firestorm between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio shows no signs of coming to an end as of March 17, 2025, with fresh developments intensifying Nigeria’s most gripping legislative controversy of the year. What began as an allegation of sexual harassment has spiraled into a saga of suspensions, legal battles, and now security agency involvement, spotlighting issues of power, gender, and justice in Nigeria’s Senate.

Latest Developments: On March 11, 2025, Senator Natasha, the first female senator from Kogi Central, addressed the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) at a United Nations forum in New York, alleging her six-month suspension from the Senate—effective March 6—was retaliation for rejecting Akpabio’s alleged sexual advances. She claimed the Senate President propositioned her, tying legislative favors to personal demands, a charge Akpabio vehemently denies. The Senate insists her suspension stemmed from “gross misconduct” over a seating dispute, not her harassment claims, which were dismissed on procedural grounds.

This week, the plot thickened as reports emerged that the Department of State Services (DSS) and National Intelligence Agency (NIA) are probing Natasha’s unauthorized trip to the IPU meeting.

 

The move has fueled accusations from her supporters that the government is using state machinery to intimidate her, with protests erupting in Abuja and Lagos under hashtags like #WeAreAllNatasha.

Legal and Public Backlash: Natasha has escalated her fight, filing a contempt suit against Akpabio and Senate officials on March 13 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, challenging her suspension as unlawful. The court had previously, on March 4, restrained the Senate from disciplining her pending a hearing, now set for March 20, 2025. Meanwhile, Akpabio’s camp asserts the IPU lacks jurisdiction over Senate affairs, with his aide, Eseme Eyiboh, dismissing calls for him to testify internationally.

Public reaction remains polarized. Women’s rights groups and civil society organizations, including a coalition from Edo State, have rallied behind Natasha, condemning what they call a “misogynistic” silencing of a rare female voice in the 109-seat Senate, where women hold just four seats. Critics, however, including political analyst Omotayo Yusuf, question her evidence, urging her to substantiate claims that have gripped national discourse since her February 28 Arise TV interview.

The Bigger Picture: The scandal has reignited debates about gender-based violence in Nigerian politics. Natasha’s suspension leaves the Senate with only three female lawmakers, amplifying calls for reform. Her allegations echo past tensions with Akpabio, who apologized in July 2024 for a “nightclub” remark aimed at her, suggesting a pattern of friction. Political economist Pat Utomi has accused Akpabio of worse conduct than Natasha’s alleged breaches, pointing to a double standard.

What’s Next?: As the DSS probe unfolds and the court date clock ticks, Nigeria watches a high-stakes showdown. Will Natasha’s evidence—if presented—vindicate her, or will Akpabio’s defense hold sway? For now, the scandal remains a lightning rod, exposing fault lines in power and privilege.

 

 

 

 

 

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Trending

How Hilda Baci Broke Guinness World Record for ‘Longest Cooking Time’

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Nigerian chef, Hilda Effiong Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci, broke the
Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual, surpassing the current record holder for cooking marathon.

She broke the record after cooking for more than 87 hours, 45 minutes, a record held by India’s Lata Tondon in 2019.

The restaurateur began the competition on Thursday at the Amore Gardens in Lekki area of Lagos after she turned on her cooker at 4pm and surpassed the current world record holder on Monday morning.

By 08:32am on Monday, Hilda Baci had cooked for 88 hours and 32 minutes to equal the record set by an Indian chef, Lata Tondon in 2019.

Consequently, the Nigeria chef has now set a new record for the longest cooking time by an individual after 4-day cooking marathon challenge.

“The journey to the cook-a-thon started five years ago,” Hilda Baci said. “It is one of my biggest aspirations and I am glad that I took the bold step to embark on this adventure. I have taken time to prepare for this psychologically and I am proud to finally take on this challenge.”

“The cook-a-thon is also an opportunity to tell some of the positive stories that come from Africa through the meals that we make.

“This attempt is also proof of the strength young people can exhibit with the right platform and support. I look forward to receiving support from people across the world to achieve this feat.”

Despite breaking the record, the 27-year-old Nigerian chef is yet to stop her cooking as at the time of filing this report.

Hilda Baci is being cheered by a rousing number of Nigerians, mostly youths who are present at the scene of the record-breaking event.

 

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Trending

Why Women Don’t Engage in Politics – Ali Baba

by Women Times on

By Ada Osadebe

Nigerian comedian, Atunyota Akpobome, often known as Ali Baba, has revealed why women don’t engage in Nigerian politics.

He stated this in a post on his Instagram page on Tuesday, claiming that certain women avoid politics because they do not want to lie, to be in a position of service.

He further asserted that the women who later pursue politics are “frustrated out” of the system.

He said, “See why women run away from politics? Women don’t want to be part of a flawed system.

“Or lie to be in a position of service… and the few women who brave it are frustrated out.

He further captioned the post saying, “The structure in politics is made in away to demotivate the women from participating in politics.”

 

 

 

Credit:  Vanguard

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Trending

5 Ways To Spend Valentine’s Day Without Breaking The Bank

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Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love and every year, lovers take out time and extra resources to make the day super special for their partner. The day is almost synonymous with expensive, and it can be for those who are coupled up.

 

While taking the time to celebrate your love is a good thing, spending a fortune is often not the smartest move. So, this year we took our time to put together a few tips to help you celebrate your love without breaking the bank. Check them out:

 

  • Go somewhere new

You don’t necessarily have to visit fancy restaurants to make the day memorable. Create new memories by visiting inexpensive places like museums, art galleries, the beach and other affordable places.

 

It’s the perfect opportunity to visit places you and your partner have always intended to get to but never seem to have the time.

 

  • Play some board games

There are a lot of engaging games to keep you and your love super busy and entertained. The board game world is quite vast, and it might be the perfect time to try out Monopoly, Scrabble, Chess and others. To make it more fun, you can pair up with another couple.

 

  • Make your partner’s favourite foods at home

Go all out with a beautiful dinner at home! No rule says you have to go out to have an amazing meal together. Light the candles, pour some wine and cook a meal your partner would love. Or better yet, you can cook together and make the other’s favourite food.

 

  • Watch your favourite shows or movies on Showmax

Stay home and binge-watch all your favourite movies on Showmax. Nothing says cosy more than cuddling up and binge-watching your favourite shows or rewatching classics with your favourite person. You can pick a romantic movie or series to set the mood right.

 

  • Spend time rediscovering each other

Even after many years, your partner may still surprise you! Try the question game, where you ask the other person something you don’t know about them.

Just remember that your partner’s happiness is the most important thing and it can cost little to make them happy.

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Trending

From Dating to Defrauding: Online Romance Scams Surge As Criminals Cash in on Lonely South Africans, Others

by Women Times on

Catfishing, sextortion, phishing and other romance scams are big business for fraudsters. Carey van Vlaanderen, Chief Executive Officer at ESET Southern Africa says knowing how to spot red flags can mean the difference between being deeply in love and knee-deep in debt. 

Dating sites can be a wonderful place to meet new people, make connections and find a romantic partner, but as the popular Tinder Swindler documentary showed, it’s easy to fall in love and fall victim to dating scams involving romantic con artists. With February being the month of love, it’s important that online daters know how to protect themselves in the digital dating space.

Data from the Federal Trade Commission in the United States showed that in 2021 reported losses to romance scammers were up nearly 80% compared to the previous year. This was followed by an alert issued by the FBI which noted victims of romance fraud lost $1 billion in 2021 alone. While current reliable figures are difficult to establish, romance scams, both in South Africa and across the globe, are likely to be underreported because of the personal nature of the crime and victims’ feelings of embarrassment.

According to the South African Banking Risk Information Centre (SABRIC) some terror groups have been targeting South Africans to finance their criminal acts through romance scams. It also reports that online dating scams are used by fraudsters to launder the illicit proceeds of crime. In 2021, eight suspects were arrested in Cape Town in connection with an online dating scam and stealing more than R100 million from victims in various countries.

 

Don’t fall for the rom-con

Online dating or romance scams are financially and emotionally costly as fraudsters exploit people’s vulnerabilities, trust, and feelings of loneliness. When visiting online dating platforms, be aware of photos that look too good to be true. An image search on Google can help you determine if the photo is authentic or a stolen or stock photo. Other red flags include requests for private information such your ID number, declarations of love alarmingly early in the relationship, or a request for money to help them out of a situation.

Another new trend in 2022 was an increase in reports of romance scammers luring consumers into fake cryptocurrency investment schemes.

Falling for deception

While dating scams have multiple layers of deception, they all rely on gaining a victim’s information which should give everyone pause to think about how the management of personal information can allow criminals to build a detailed profile of their target.

A common modus operandi is scammers using emotional manipulation to get a victim to send money, gifts, or personal information. Another common, and extremely traumatising, form of deception is sextortion. This begins as a seemingly normal relationship before the scammer pressures the victim into sending intimate photos or videos which are used as material to blackmail the victim.

Catfishing is another common trick scammers use which lures the victim into a relationship based on the attacker’s fictitious online persona. Once the victim is on the hook, the scammer will send messages about being in financial trouble with promises to pay the money back later.

How to protect your feelings and your finances

  • Scammers seldom ask for money at the beginning of an interaction. Instead, they may express money worries in casual conversation or use financial trouble as a reason not to meet.
  • Carefully consider the decision to leave verified dating apps to message privately. Not only does this give the fraudster access to your mobile number, but dating apps also provide mechanisms to report scammers and unsafe behaviour.
  • Don’t send a person money. No matter how convincing their story may be. Talk to someone you know and trust for their perspective on the situation.
  • Never share any information that may compromise you, including photos or videos.
  • If you decide to meet someone in person that you’ve met online be sure to set up the meeting in a safe, public place, and ensure a trusted friend or family member is aware of your arrangements.

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