Lifestyle - Women Times

Ruth Kadiri’s Style Evolution: From Sustainable Denim Rebellion to Burgundy Racing Glam

by Women Times on April 1, 2026

By Prosper Mene

April 1, 2026

Nollywood actress, filmmaker, and style icon Ruth Kadiri is proving once again that her fashion game knows no bounds. In a striking display of versatility, the multi-talented star has unveiled two standout looks within days of each other—one a sustainable, edgy upcycled denim ensemble for her 38th birthday on March 24, and the other a sleek, racing-inspired burgundy two-piece that welcomed the month of April with high-octane glamour. Both creations, custom-designed and styled by Josiphiah Michael, highlight Kadiri’s fearless approach to fashion.

The birthday look channels raw, deconstructed energy with a fully upcycled denim set. A structured corset with visible boning and lace-up details sits under a cropped, oversized patchwork jacket, paired with a frayed, uneven mini skirt. Thigh-high denim boots and a matching duffle bag complete the head-to-toe moment, while white cord lacing and distressed edges add texture and attitude. It’s denim reimagined—not just casual streetwear, but elevated, sustainable couture that screams confidence and creativity.

Just days later, Kadiri switched gears for April with a deep burgundy speed-couture two-piece. The corset top cinches the waist perfectly, featuring an off-shoulder neckline trimmed with voluminous, textured details. The skirt hugs the hips before cascading into soft ruffles, accented by bold white racing stripes for that sporty edge. She accessorized with a glossy red racing helmet held casually at the waist, turning the entire look into a high-fashion editorial statement that blends athletic flair with feminine drama.

Ruth Kadiri’s Fashion Sense: Bold, Versatile, and Unapologetically Experimental

Kadiri’s current style era reflects a sophisticated evolution. Her fashion sense is defined by contrast and intentionality, she masterfully balances sustainability with luxury, edge with elegance, and everyday wearability with red-carpet drama. The upcycled denim look celebrates eco-conscious creativity, using patchwork and deconstruction to elevate a classic fabric into something fresh and forward-thinking. Meanwhile, the burgundy glam showcases her love for structure and unexpected pairings, like sporty racing motifs with ruffled femininity.

What stands out most is her range: she doesn’t chase trends—she redefines them. Whether it’s birthday denim that feels rebellious yet refined or April’s burgundy moment that merges high-speed energy with glamorous silhouettes, Kadiri consistently delivers looks that feel personal, powerful, and perfectly timed for the moment. Styled by Josiphiah Michael, these outfits underscore her growing reputation as a Nollywood fashion pioneer who treats every appearance as a canvas for storytelling.

Fashion Suggestions Inspired by Ruth Kadiri’s Latest Looks

For fans and fashion enthusiasts looking to channel Kadiri’s vibe:

Upcycled Denim Route: Start with a structured denim corset or bustier as your base, it instantly adds polish to casual pieces. Layer it under an oversized patchwork jacket or denim shirt for texture, then finish with thigh-high boots and a mini skirt. Pro tip: Incorporate frayed edges or lace-up details for that deconstructed edge. This sustainable approach works perfectly for birthdays, brunches, or creative events in Lagos or beyond.

Burgundy Glam Route: Embrace rich, deep tones like burgundy or wine red for instant sophistication. Opt for a corset top with off-shoulder drama and pair it with a ruffled skirt featuring contrast stripes (white or metallic for that racing flair). Add a bold accessory, like a statement helmet, oversized bag, or gloves—to elevate the sporty-chic energy into full glam. Ideal for April events, red-carpet moments, or even a stylish night out.

Kadiri’s looks prove that fashion should be fun, functional, and fearless. Whether you’re team denim or team burgundy, her range offers endless inspiration for experimenting with your own wardrobe. Keep an eye on her Instagram (@ruthkadiri) for what she serves next. This is just the beginning of her style renaissance.

What’s your favorite of the two looks? Drop your thoughts below

News Entertainment

Nigerian Music Power Couple Simi and Adekunle Gold Welcome Their Second Child

by Women Times on April 1, 2026

By Prosper Mene

April 1, 2026

Nigerian singers Simi and Adekunle Gold have joyfully announced the arrival of their second child.

The announcement was made earlier today on Instagram by Simi, who shared a series of heartwarming maternity shoot photographs featuring the couple in matching denim outfits. In her caption, the “Duduke” hitmaker wrote: “+1. 3.10.26. God bless my little family #mommyof2.”

The post confirms the baby was born on March 10, 2026. Simi did not reveal the newborn’s gender or name, but the simple “+1” and “mommyof2” hashtag subtly put to rest earlier viral rumours that the couple had welcomed twins.

The couple, who tied the knot in a private ceremony in January 2019, already share a daughter, Adejare, born in 2020—the same year they celebrated their first wedding anniversary. Their second pregnancy was first teased in December 2025 when Simi made a glowing appearance in Adekunle Gold’s music video for “My Love Is The Same,” proudly showing off her baby bump.

Fans and colleagues have flooded social media with congratulatory messages. Actress Temi Otedola wrote, “Beautiful congratulations!!” while singer Ladipoe quipped, “Duduke Pt. 2.” Other celebrities including content creator Kiekie, skitmaker Broda Shaggi, and Folagade Banks also sent warm wishes.

The power couple continues to enjoy strong support across the music industry and among fans, who have long admired their low-key yet loving relationship and musical synergy.

Simi and Adekunle Gold have kept details of the new addition private, choosing to share only the joyful news and beautiful images while focusing on their growing family.

Congratulations to the Kosoko family!

Entertainment

Seen “A Way Forward” Yet? This Short Film About a Northern Nigerian Mum Hits Different

by Women Times on March 31, 2026

By Prosper Mene

The latest release from MTV Shuga Naija’s Shorts Innovation Lab follows Hadiza, a young mother in Northern Nigeria, as everyday pressures threaten to swallow her family whole. Her husband Usman, the sole breadwinner, is sidelined after a motorbike accident that wrecks both his only source of income and his pride. Rent is due, food is running low, and the local shopkeeper’s goodwill is wearing thin. When Hadiza quietly decides to step up by brewing and selling large batches of Kunu, what starts as a simple act of love quickly collides with tradition, ego, and neighbourhood economics.

Starring Miriam Peters as Hadiza and Samson Solomon as Usman, the film refuses to shout its message. Instead, it lets the characters breathe. No grand speeches, no forced drama, just the quiet tension of a woman who knows waiting is no longer an option and a man learning that support doesn’t always look like being the sole provider. Written by Uche Mordi and directed by Ella Bakare, A Way Forward is grounded in the realities of Northern Nigerian life: the market bustle, the cultural expectations around marriage and gender roles, and the everyday dignity of people simply trying to keep their families afloat.

Mordi, who conceived the story before shaping it through the MTV Staying Alive Foundation’s lab, says authenticity was non-negotiable. “If you’re going to tell a story in a culture or language, you owe it honesty and nuance,” she explained. The film doesn’t treat Northern Nigeria as colourful backdrop; it lives inside the culture—language, values, decision-making—making the characters feel like people you might actually know.

What makes the short film hit differently is how it handles the shift from conflict to quiet collaboration. Hadiza’s small business move first disrupts the fragile balance the family depends on. Tensions flare. Then something subtle but powerful happens: the market responds, support returns, and Usman chooses to stand beside her rather than stand in her way. It’s not about one side winning; it’s about families adapting together when necessity demands it.

In a country where women increasingly shoulder financial responsibilities out of love and survival—not rebellion—A Way Forward feels timely. Mordi notes the story reflects “many women taking on more active roles in supporting their families, not as a statement or defiance, but out of necessity.” The bigger point, she says, is “giving women the freedom to exist fully… defining success on their own terms.”

Clocking in at just over 15 minutes, the film is part of MTV Shuga’s ongoing commitment to bite-sized stories that spark big conversations across the continent. Simple production, rich performances, and culturally rooted storytelling make it the kind of short you finish and immediately want to send to a friend.

A Way Forward is now streaming for free on the MTV Shuga YouTube channel. Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9pBqUzhqnw

If you haven’t seen it yet, make time. In a sea of loud entertainment, this quiet Northern Nigerian story about a mum who simply refuses to stay stuck might just be the most powerful thing you watch this week

Lifestyle

‘I Refused to Raise Them Like I Was Raised’ – Skepta’s Mum Ify Adenuga Spills the Parenting Secrets Behind Her Kids’ Success

by Women Times on March 31, 2026

By Prosper Mene

In a BBC World Service interview that has Naija parents everywhere taking notes, Ify Adenuga – mother to grime superstar Skepta and his equally talented siblings – has revealed the radical parenting shift that turned her London home into a launchpad for global success.

The mum-of-four, who left Nigeria for the UK in 1980, grew up under the strict, fear-filled discipline common during the Biafran War era. But when she had her own children, she made a promise to herself: “I’m not going to raise my kids the way I was raised.” No more beatings, no more “children should be seen and not heard.” Instead, she and her husband Joseph Sr. chose love, freedom, and conversation as their guiding principles.

That decision paid off in ways no one could have predicted.

Ify turned their living room into a creative playground where her children – Skepta (Joseph Jr.), JME (Jamie), Julie, and Jason – could lounge all day, blast music, brainstorm ideas, and simply be themselves. “For us Africans and Black people generally, majority, we decorate the sitting room where children don’t stop over in the sitting room,” she explained. “They can do anything they like in the sitting room as long as they tidy up. It gave them that space to come up with ideas… And that’s how the idea of music as well started in the house.”

She didn’t just create the space, she showed up. Ify would drive her sons to late-night music sessions in gritty parts of London and wait patiently in the car for hours while they perfected their craft. She supported their passions without judgment, even as Skepta and JME built the legendary Boy Better Know crew that changed UK grime forever. Her daughter Julie became a pioneering broadcaster and DJ, while Jason carved his path in production and animation. All four siblings credit their parents’ approach of open communication, shared gadgets, freely expressed “I love yous,” and zero pressure to follow a scripted path.

“Ify’s philosophy was simple: happiness and freedom first,” sources close to the family recall from her earlier interviews, including her British Vogue parenting guide. She openly admits when she gets things wrong and always asks her children what they want – not what she wants for them.

Today, Skepta is a worldwide music icon with chart-topping albums, major collaborations, and a career that has spotlighted Nigerian-British excellence on the global stage. JME continues to dominate in rap and business, Julie’s voice remains a cultural force on UK radio, and the entire Adenuga clan stands as living proof that breaking generational cycles of fear-based parenting can create legends.

Ify still beams with pride when she listens to her sons’ tracks. “In his songs, I can see him telling tales about how he grew up. I love listening to his songs,” she shared.

Mums and dads, this one’s for you! Ify Adenuga’s story shows that raising successful children isn’t about being perfect or traditional – it’s about giving them wings, believing in their dreams, and creating a home where creativity can breathe.

From surviving the Biafran War as a child to raising a creative dynasty in London, Mama Ify has shown the world what happens when love replaces fear.

Health

AXA Mansard Health’s WhatsApp ChatBot ‘Karis’ Helps Over 300,000 Enrollees Access Healthcare Faster

by Women Times on March 26, 2026

In a move to minimize waiting times and facilitate quicker access to healthcare at its over 2,000 partner facilities across Nigeria, AXA Mansard Health, Nigeria’s leading Health Management Organisation, has introduced a new WhatsApp-based chatbot named Karis.

By adding Karis to their WhatsApp contacts, more than three hundred thousand AXA Mansard Health enrollees can now easily obtain treatment approvals, confirm authorizations, check their plan status, access plan benefits, purchase health plans, and receive immediate assistance during medical emergencies.

Tope Adeniyi, CEO of AXA Mansard Health Limited, explained that this innovative solution is another step in the organization’s commitment to putting customers first. “It is another way we are using to tell our customers that we deeply care about them, and we stop at nothing to ensure access to healthcare is simple, affordable and convenient,” he said.

Adeniyi highlighted that the manual process of authorization before treatment had been a major pain point, often discouraging people from seeking hospital care. He noted that with Karis, authorization can now be processed via a familiar and accessible platform like WhatsApp.

“With this new solution, our enrollees at the point of care can experience our service speed. Also, they can quickly ask Karis what their plans cover or otherwise, so we have empowered them. They can now search for hospital or specialist healthcare by interacting with Karis. It’s about making healthcare personalised for our customers,” he explained.

He added that Karis is more than just a tool; it is part of a wider vision to make healthcare accessible, personalized, and stress-free for everyone.

The introduction of Karis aligns with AXA Mansard Health’s broader strategy to leverage digital innovation for enhanced service delivery and improved customer experience. By streamlining access to healthcare support, the chatbot allows enrollees to focus on their well-being without being hindered by administrative hurdles.

Through initiatives like this, AXA Mansard Health continues to lead in digital healthcare solutions, making it easier for Nigerians to manage their health and access timely care with confidence. “Karis demonstrates our organisation’s commitment to leveraging technology for practical solutions that simplify lives and improve healthcare outcomes,” Adeniyi concluded.

News Entertainment

𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗜 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗺𝘆 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗲 — 𝗞𝗶𝗲𝗞𝗶𝗲

by Women Times on March 23, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Nigerian media personality, content creator, and actress Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, popularly known as KieKie, has opened up about her deliberate choice to keep her personal life private, emphasizing the importance of separating her public brand from her private world.

In recent interviews and appearances, including at The Creative Blueprint event hosted by Funke Akindele, KieKie explained that she maintains a clear and intentional boundary between what she shares online and her personal affairs. She described drawing a “thick line” between her content creation work and her private life to protect her brand and preserve her peace.

The multiple award-winning host and influencer stressed that her social media platforms serve primarily as business and professional spaces. This approach extends to her family life, including her marriage and motherhood. She has been married since around 2020 and is a mother to a daughter but chooses not to feature her husband or overly personal family moments in her content. KieKie clarified that this isn’t about hiding anything but about professionalism and safeguarding what matters most to her away from public scrutiny.

Her stance shows a growing trend among content creators who prioritize mental well-being and brand integrity in an era of constant online exposure. By keeping personal elements off-limits, KieKie continues to build her career on relatable, stylish, and entertaining content while maintaining control over her narrative.

Fans and industry peers have praised her maturity in handling fame, noting that such boundaries allow her to focus on creativity without unnecessary distractions or invasions of privacy.

KieKie remains one of Nigeria’s most influential voices in fashion, comedy skits, hosting, and digital media, consistently setting trends while staying true to her values of privacy and authenticity

Lifestyle

‎PANDEF demands probe into alleged harassment, assault of women at Ozoro Festival

by Women Times on March 23, 2026

By Prosper Mene

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political organization representing the interests of the Niger Delta region, has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the alleged harassment and assault of women during a recent cultural festival in Ozoro, Delta State.

In a statement issued on March 23, 2026, and signed by its National Spokesman, Chief Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini, PANDEF described the reported incidents as deeply disturbing and unacceptable. The group urged the Nigeria Police Force to act swiftly, identify the perpetrators, and ensure they face justice without delay.

The controversy originates from the annual Alue-Do festival held in Ozoro, headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area. Viral videos circulating on social media since around March 19-20, 2026, reportedly show groups of men chasing, stripping, molesting, and in some accounts assaulting women in public during the event. Some reports describe the acts as sexual violence, including harassment and alleged rape, sparking widespread national outrage.

The Delta State Government has strongly condemned the incidents as “barbaric” and “totally unacceptable,” directing security agencies to launch a full probe. The state Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, emphasized that no cultural practice justifies such acts and called for the perpetrators to be apprehended and prosecuted.

The Delta State Police Command has already begun investigations, with reports indicating arrests, including the community head and festival organizer Chief Omorede Sunday, along with others. Authorities have stressed that allegations are under review, and no cultural justification will override citizens’ rights and safety.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) labeled the events a “national disgrace” and a collapse of societal values, demanding full accountability.

Political parties like the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and civil society organizations, including the Take-It-Back Movement, have made demands for thorough probes and prosecutions without cover-ups.

PANDEF’s intervention highlights the regional dimension, as the Niger Delta body positions itself against any form of violence or rights abuse in its domain, reinforcing calls for law enforcement to prioritize victim protection and deterrence.

Lifestyle

Nigerian Women Shine in Color and Joy as Eid al-Fitr Lights Up the Nation

by Women Times on March 20, 2026

By Prosper Mene

The streets of Lagos, Kano, Ilorin, and Abuja came alive with vibrant colors and joyful murmurs as Eid al-Fitr (Eid il-Fitri) dawned across Nigeria. Known locally as “Sallah” in many regions, this celebration marks the triumphant end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, reflection, and spiritual renewal. For Nigerian Muslim women, Eid is more than a holiday; it’s a radiant showcase of faith, family, creativity, and community spirit.

Across the country, women rise before dawn. In homes from the bustling markets of Lagos to the ancient city of Kano, mothers, daughters, sisters, and aunts prepare with quiet excitement. The air fills with the aroma of jollof rice, spicy stews, fried plantains, puff-puff, and succulent ram meat grilled to perfection. Kitchens buzz as women orchestrate feasts that will bring extended families together, dishes prepared with love, shared generously, and often spiced with the warmth of reunion after a month of disciplined restraint.

Fashion takes center stage, especially among women. Eid outfits reflect Nigeria’s rich cultural tapestry: flowing Ankara prints in bold patterns and vivid hues, elegant lace kaftans, embroidered abayas, and luxurious boubous.

In Northern Nigeria, women embrace modest yet striking styles, long, colorful gowns paired with coordinated hijabs or veils, often in Ankara or brocade fabrics that catch the morning light. Southern and Western regions blend tradition with modernity: adire-dyed boubous, sequinned kaftans, silk turbans, and beaded details that tell stories of heritage.

Many families coordinate looks, mothers and daughters in matching outfits, a tradition that sparks smiles and photos during visits.

After Fajr prayer, women join men and children at mosques or open Eid grounds for the special congregational prayer. In places like Ilorin, the historic Durbar procession adds grandeur, with horsemen parading in colorful regalia while women in their finest attire gather to pray and exchange greetings. “Eid Mubarak,” “Sallah Barkallah,” and warm embraces ripple through crowds. Women often lead in distributing zakat al-fitr (charity) and sweets to children, ensuring the less fortunate share in the joy.

Family visits follow: homes open doors wide, laughter echoes, and plates overflow. Women, often the heart of these gatherings welcome guests, serve meals, and nurture bonds. In many households, grandmothers share stories of past Eids, while younger women blend old customs with fresh trends, like mixing Ankara with contemporary cuts for a modern modest look.

For Nigerian women, Eid embodies resilience and grace. After Ramadan’s discipline, they emerge in full splendor, celebrating not just the breaking of the fast, but the strength found in faith, the beauty of community, and the enduring power of family ties.

As the sun sets on this blessed day, the celebrations continue into the night and often the next, with music, dances in some communities, and more feasting.

Eid Mubarak to all. May peace, prosperity, and happiness fill every home.

Sport News

𝗙𝗜𝗙𝗔 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗿𝘂𝗹𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘄𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗹

by Women Times on March 19, 2026

By Prosper Mene

FIFA has introduced a landmark rule mandating female representation in coaching roles for all women’s football competitions under its governance.

The new regulations, approved by the FIFA Council on Thursday, March 19, 2026, require every team participating in FIFA women’s tournaments to include at least one female head coach or assistant coach on the bench. Additionally, teams must have a minimum of two female staff members in their backroom setup overall.

This policy applies immediately and covers all levels of FIFA-organized women’s competitions, including youth events such as the upcoming U-17 and U-20 Women’s World Cups, the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, senior national team tournaments, and club-level events. It will also extend to the next FIFA Women’s World Cup, scheduled for 2027 in Brazil.

The move aims to boost the number of women in high-level coaching positions and address longstanding gender imbalances in the sport. For context, at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, only 12 out of 32 head coaches were women.

FIFA’s decision is part of broader efforts to promote gender equality and increase female representation in leadership roles within women’s football. The regulations were described in reports as a step toward reshaping the future of the game by ensuring greater visibility and opportunities for female coaches.

This requirement is expected to encourage national associations, clubs, and federations to invest more in developing and hiring qualified women coaches, potentially creating a pipeline for more diverse technical staffs in the years ahead.

The announcement has been welcomed as a progressive step in advancing women’s football, though implementation details, such as compliance monitoring and potential sanctions will likely be clarified in the coming weeks.

News Entertainment Trending

𝗠𝘆 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗼 𝗶𝘀 𝗲𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝗮 𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗲 – 𝗕𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗢𝘀𝘂

by Women Times on March 10, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Nollywood actress and reality TV star Beverly Osu has sparked widespread discussion after boldly declaring that her professional portfolio is substantial enough to have made her a billionaire, lamenting the low pay in the entertainment industry.

In a recent episode of the podcast ChaCha’s Couch, Osu expressed deep frustration over her financial realities despite years of hard work across modeling, acting, and reality television.

She emphasized that her body of work, including high-profile roles and appearances—should have positioned her as a billionaire, not just in Nigeria but across Africa.

“I have worked so hard, my portfolio is enough to make me a billionaire not just in Nigeria but in Africa,” Osu stated. “I am a very humble person but I know that my portfolio is enough to make me a billionaire. So, I am fighting for better wages. I have tried to be humble about it, but you know I like to eat the humble pie very well, but my portfolio is actually enough.”

The actress accused the industry, particularly Nollywood, of underpaying experienced talents, which she argued undermines the quality of productions and discourages dedication. She highlighted how the pay structure often fails to reward longevity and extensive contributions, leaving even accomplished figures like herself struggling financially relative to their achievements.

Osu’s comments are coming amid ongoing conversations in Nigeria’s entertainment sector about compensation disparities, with many actors and creatives echoing calls for fairer pay structures to reflect the value of their work.

Her viral statements have drawn mixed reactions online, with some sympathizing with her plight and others debating the realism of her billionaire claim given the industry’s economics.

Beverly Osu rose to prominence after appearing in the 2013 Big Brother Africa reality show and has since built a career in Nollywood films, brand endorsements, and modeling.