Lifestyle - Women Times

COUNTDOWN TO WAFCON 2026: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AS MOROCCO HOSTS EXPANDED TOURNAMENT

by Women Times on July 16, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria – April 2026

The curtains are closing on the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, and attention now shifts to Africa as the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, WAFCON 2026, gets set to kick off in Morocco.

Scheduled for July 25 to August 16, 2026, this year’s edition promises more drama, more teams, and higher stakes as Africa’s best women’s teams battle for continental glory and a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

BIGGEST WAFCON YET: 16 TEAMS FOR THE FIRST TIME

For the first time in history, WAFCON will feature 16 nations, up from 12. The expansion means more matches, more stories, and wider representation across the continent.

Host nation Morocco will also make history as the first country to host three consecutive editions of the tournament. Matches will be played in world-class venues across three host cities: Rabat, Casablanca, and Fes.

SUPER FALCONS EYE RECORD 11TH TITLE

All eyes will be on Nigeria’s Super Falcons, the defending champions. Africa’s most successful women’s team will be chasing an unprecedented 11th WAFCON title.

The nine-time champions have been drawn in Group C and will play all their group games at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca:

Nigeria vs Malawi – July 28, 2026 | 9:00 PM WAT

Nigeria vs Zambia – August 1, 2026 | 9:00 PM WAT

Nigeria vs Egypt – August 5, 2026 | 9:00 PM WAT

Debutants Malawi, nicknamed the “Scorchers,” are expected to be Group C’s wild card.

Beyond the trophy, WAFCON 2026 doubles as Africa’s qualifiers for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The four semi-finalists will qualify automatically for Brazil 2027, while two additional teams will advance to the inter-continental play-offs.

THE GROUPS IN FULL

Group A – Rabat: Morocco, Algeria, Kenya, Senegal

Group B – Rabat: South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Tanzania

Group C – Casablanca: Nigeria, Zambia, Egypt, Malawi

Group D – Fes: Cameroon, Ghana, Mali, Cabo Verde

From powerhouse clashes to debutant dreams, WAFCON 2026 is set to be a celebration of athletic excellence, representation, and the rapid growth of women’s football in Africa.

With the Super Falcons leading Africa’s charge, Nigerian fans will be watching closely as the queens of the continent aim to defend their crown and book their ticket to Brazil

Want me to also make a *shorter social media version* + *catchy headlines* for this story?

Health Uncategorized

Gynaecologists Urge Early Antenatal Registration to Prevent Pregnancy Complications

by Women Times on July 15, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Medical experts are calling on pregnant women to register for antenatal care as early as possible, ideally within the first six to eight weeks of pregnancy to significantly reduce the risk of life-threatening complications for both mother and child.

The appeal comes amid concerns over delayed antenatal registration in Nigeria, where many women only seek care after 20 weeks of gestation, often when complications have already developed.

Prof. Christopher Aimakhu, second Vice President of the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria, advised that women should book antenatal care after the second missed period, once pregnancy is confirmed. “Early registration ensures early counselling on what to do and what not to do during pregnancy, including the use of drugs, and allows for proper monitoring,” he said.

Dr. Saheed Jimoh echoed the call, stressing that timely antenatal care enables healthcare providers to detect risks early, initiate preventive treatments, and plan for safe delivery. “It is important to register early so that some of these things are identified early. We can detect them early… We can prevent some of these disease conditions before they even start showing up,”

Dr. Jimoh explained, Nigeria bears a heavy burden of maternal mortality, accounting for approximately 34% of global maternal deaths, with a maternal mortality ratio of 512 per 100,000 live births according to the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey.

Delayed or absent antenatal care contributes to avoidable tragedies, including intrauterine growth restriction, fetal demise, premature labour, pregnancy-induced hypertension, severe pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, and complications from conditions such as gestational diabetes, sickle cell disease, and infections like HIV and hepatitis B.

Antenatal care focuses on prevention, health promotion, birth planning, preparation, and early detection of issues. It provides opportunities for essential interventions such as HIV testing, administration of preventive medicines, and nutritional support through hematinics.

Experts noted several barriers to early registration, including poverty, distance to health facilities, low awareness, cultural beliefs, unplanned pregnancies, and previous successful deliveries that create overconfidence. Healthcare worker shortages due to migration further strain the system.

Abioye Amodu, Head of Monitoring and Evaluation at the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, highlighted the practical challenge: “Most times, they come in after 20 weeks, and there are so many complications that can arise from that.”

Health authorities and medical professionals are urging intensified public education campaigns and improved access to free or subsidised antenatal services to encourage early booking. Strengthening health insurance coverage could also reduce the financial burden on families, which often includes transportation, tests, drugs, and consultations.

Gynaecologists emphasise that starting antenatal care early is one of the most effective steps women can take toward a safer pregnancy and delivery, ultimately helping to lower Nigeria’s persistently high maternal and newborn mortality rates.

Entertainment Uncategorized

Funke Akindele Reveals Major Sacrifices Behind ₦2.7 Billion Box Office Success for ‘Behind The Scenes’

by Women Times on July 13, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Nollywood powerhouse Funke Akindele has opened up about the intense personal toll behind her latest cinematic triumph, disclosing that her film Behind The Scenes has grossed over ₦2.7 billion at the box office.

In a candid interview with Bella Naija that has since gone viral on social media, the actress, producer, and director attributed the film’s record-breaking performance to unrelenting dedication and significant lifestyle sacrifices.

“So for me to get all these achievements, for the last movie to cross ₦2.7 billion, it was a lot of sleepless nights for me. A lot of sacrifice, giving my all. I forget to eat sometimes,” Akindele said. She added that she “abandoned” herself for the project, forgoing routine self-care such as hair styling except for red carpet events or major commitments.“I don’t even make my hair, except I’m going on the red carpet or for something very important. I don’t attend parties. I don’t go to greet people at home. I put everything into work — research, writing, work. I’m neck deep into work,” she explained.

Akindele noted that she has only recently begun prioritizing self-care again, resuming skincare routines and feeling “fresh” after the demanding production period.

The revelations have sparked widespread admiration online for her discipline and work ethic, with many fans and industry observers praising her as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s film sector.

Akindele, known for her commercially successful comedies and strong female-led stories, has consistently delivered high-grossing films that resonate with audiences across the country and the diaspora.

Her latest achievement further cements her status as one of Nollywood’s most bankable talents, demonstrating that substantial financial returns often come from deep personal investment and focus.

Industry watchers say such transparency also highlights the pressures faced by top filmmakers balancing creative vision with business demands.

As Behind The Scenes continues its run, Akindele’s story serves as both inspiration and a reminder of the hidden costs of success in one of Africa’s most dynamic creative industries.

Sport

Super Falcons Players Arrive Camp Ahead of 2026 WAFCON

by Women Times on July 13, 2026

By Prosper Mene

ABUJA, Nigeria

The atmosphere in the Super Falcons camp is already picking up as players begin to arrive ahead of Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, WAFCON.

Several key players were seen checking into the team’s Abuja base on Sunday evening, with more expected to join in the coming days as the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, intensifies plans for the continental tournament.

The 9-time African champions are looking to reclaim the WAFCON title after missing out in the last edition. Head coach Justin Madugu is expected to use the early camp period to assess fitness levels, work on team chemistry, and fine-tune tactics before the qualifiers and final tournament.

Speaking on arrival, some of the players expressed excitement about wearing the green and white again.

“We are happy to be back together. The target is clear – to win the trophy for Nigeria,” one of the players said. “We know what it means to Nigerians and we are ready to give our best.”

The NFF said the technical crew will conduct medicals and training sessions this week, with a full squad expected before the end of the month. Friendly matches are also being lined up to keep the team in shape ahead of WAFCON.

The 2026 WAFCON is scheduled to hold in Morocco and will serve as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The Super Falcons, who remain Africa’s most successful women’s team, are tipped as strong contenders.

Fans have also taken to social media to welcome the players back to camp, calling for full support for the team as they chase a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.

With preparations now underway, all eyes will be on the Super Falcons as they begin the journey to restore Nigeria’s dominance on the African stage.

Entertainment

“I Want to Build the Next Generation of Female Filmmakers” — Funke Akindele Opens Up On Nollywood, Box Office Records & Legacy

by Women Times on July 9, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria

Funke Akindele is not slowing down. The actress, producer and director sat down for a new interview where she spoke candidly about breaking box office records, the state of Nollywood, and her biggest goal yet: mentoring the next generation of women behind the camera.

Known as “Jenifa” to millions of fans, Akindele has spent the last few years rewriting what success looks like in Nigerian cinema. Her films A Tribe Called Judah and Everybody Loves Jenifa both crossed the ₦1 billion mark at the box office, making her the highest-grossing Nollywood director to date.

But for Akindele, the numbers are only part of the story.

“I want to build the next generation of female filmmakers,” she said. “For a long time, the industry was dominated by men in key roles — directing, producing, funding. Now we have women telling our stories, and we need to pull more women up with us.”

The 48-year-old revealed she has started putting structures in place through her production company to train young women in directing, scriptwriting, and production management. According to her, many talented women get stuck in entry-level roles because they lack access and mentorship.

“We have the talent. What we need is opportunity,” she explained. “If I can open doors for 10 girls this year, and they open doors for 10 more, then we’re changing the industry.”

Akindele also addressed the pressure that comes with breaking records. After A Tribe Called Judah became the first Nollywood film to gross over ₦1 billion, expectations have been high.

“The pressure is real, but I don’t make films for records,” she said. “I make films for my people. For the market woman, for the student, for families who want to laugh and cry together. If it breaks records, that’s a bonus.”

On Nollywood’s global rise, she said streaming platforms and cinema culture have given Nigerian stories a bigger stage. But she warned that quality and originality must remain the focus.

“We can’t just chase trends. Our stories are powerful because they are ours. Family, community, hustle, faith — that’s what connects with people here and abroad.”

With two back-to-back billion-naira films and a TV franchise that has run for over 15 years, Funke Akindele has cemented her place in Nollywood history. Yet she says she’s just getting started.

“My legacy won’t just be the films I made,” she added. “It will be the women I helped become directors, producers, and storytellers too.”

Entertainment

Ayra Starr Turns Heads With Sculptural Corset and Bold Gold Jewellery in New Look

by Women Times on July 7, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria — April 2026

Nigerian pop star Ayra Starr is once again setting style trends, this time with a daring new look that blends high fashion with Afro-futurist glam.

The singer debuted the ensemble on her social media over the weekend, pairing a sculptural corset with statement gold jewellery for a look that has already gone viral with fans and fashion critics alike.

The corset featured dramatic, architectural lines and structured boning that cinched at the waist, creating a bold silhouette. Ayra styled it with oversized gold hoops, layered gold chains, and chunky gold cuffs that added a regal, contemporary edge to the outfit.

Stylists say the look pulls from two major 2026 trends: sculptural tailoring and maximalist gold accessories. The combination highlights Ayra’s signature ability to mix softness with strength, a theme that also runs through her music.

“This is Ayra in full artiste mode,” one fashion commentator posted. “The corset is couture, but the gold keeps it rooted in African luxury.”

The 22-year-old Mavin Records star has become known for pushing style boundaries, from Y2K-inspired crop tops to avant-garde stage pieces. Her latest look is expected to influence red carpet and concert fashion in the coming months.

Fans flooded the comments with praise, calling the outfit “iconic,” “art,” and “peak Ayra Starr energy.”

With a new tour and music expected later this year, Ayra Starr continues to prove that her influence goes beyond sound, she’s shaping culture, one look at a time.

Sport

Naomi Osaka Ends Sabalenka’s Reign, Storms Into First Wimbledon Quarterfinal

by Women Times on July 6, 2026

By Prosper Mene

LONDON — Naomi Osaka is back on the big stage, and she picked the perfect moment to announce it.

The 4-time Grand Slam champion stunned World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets on Monday to reach her first-ever Wimbledon quarterfinal, 6-4, 7-6(3).

For Osaka, it’s a career milestone 9 years in the making. She had never gone past the third round at the All England Club before this year. Now, she’s taken out the top seed to get there.

From the first ball, Osaka played like a woman with nothing to lose and everything to prove. She was aggressive off both wings, dictated with her forehand, and absorbed Sabalenka’s power with calm composure.

She broke Sabalenka early in the first set and never let go, closing it out 6-4 with an ace out wide.

The second set was pure drama. Sabalenka cranked up the intensity and forced a tiebreak. But Osaka stayed ice cold. She raced to a 5-0 lead in the breaker and finished it with a forehand winner that had Centre Court on its feet.

After match point, Osaka put both hands to her face in disbelief before waving to the crowd.

“I’ve always struggled here, so to finally get to the second week and beat the No.1… it means a lot,” Osaka said on court. “I just tried to enjoy every point and play free tennis.”

The win snaps Sabalenka’s 12-match winning streak at Slams and hands the Belarusian her earliest exit from a major this year.

Entertainment

Mercy Chinwo and Nathaniel Bassey Team Up for Worship Anthem “Promise Keeper”

by Women Times on July 4, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria | April 4, 2026

Gospel powerhouses Mercy Chinwo and Nathaniel Bassey have joined forces for a new song titled “Promise Keeper”, a stirring worship anthem celebrating God’s faithfulness.

The collaboration, released across all major streaming platforms on Friday, brings together two of Nigeria’s most celebrated gospel voices for the first time on a single.

“Promise Keeper” is built around testimonies of God’s unwavering word, with heartfelt lyrics and soaring vocals that highlight both artists’ signature worship style. The song opens with a soft, reflective melody before building into a powerful chorus declaring: “You are the God who keeps His promise.”

Speaking about the collaboration, Mercy Chinwo described the song as “a reminder that God never fails.”

“In seasons when it looks like nothing is happening, God is still working. This song is about trusting Him to do exactly what He said He will do,” she said.

Nathaniel Bassey also noted that the song was birthed out of personal encounters with God’s faithfulness.

“We wanted to create something that people can hold on to in prayer. ‘Promise Keeper’ is for everyone waiting on God,” he added.

The single was produced with a blend of contemporary gospel and African worship sounds, and is already gaining traction on gospel playlists and radio stations across Nigeria, the US, UK, and other parts of Africa.

Fans have flooded social media with testimonies and praise clips since the release, with #PromiseKeeper trending among gospel music lovers on X and Instagram.

Mercy Chinwo and Nathaniel Bassey are both known for global worship hits, Chinwo for songs like “Excess Love” and “Igwe”, and Bassey for “Hallelujah Challenge” and “Imela”. “Promise Keeper” marks their first official collaboration.

“Promise Keeper” is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, Boomplay, Audiomack, and YouTube.

Entertainment

Yemi Alade & Bien Deliver a Cross-Continental Love Anthem with “Don’t Be Shy”

by Women Times on July 1, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria – July 2026

Afrobeats queen Yemi Alade and Kenyan hitmaker “Bien” have teamed up for “Don’t Be Shy”, a smooth, cross-continental love anthem that is already heating up playlists across Africa and beyond.

The track blends Alade’s powerful vocals and signature Afro-pop energy with Bien’s laid-back Afro-soul delivery, creating a conversation between two lovers urging each other to let their guard down. Produced with warm guitar licks, soft percussion, and a breezy mid-tempo groove, “Don’t Be Shy” leans into romance without losing dancefloor appeal.

Speaking on the collaboration, Yemi Alade described it as “a meeting of East and West Africa in one song.”

“Bien has such a unique sound, and I wanted us to make something that feels intimate, confident, and very grown,” Alade said. “‘Don’t Be Shy’ is for everyone who has ever liked someone but needed that little push to say it.”

Bien echoed the sentiment, calling the record “easy, flirty, and honest.” “Yemi is a legend. We just vibed in the studio and let the song tell its own story. It’s about chemistry, and not overthinking it,” he added.

The single marks one of the biggest East-West African collaborations of 2026 so far, following a year where cross-border features have dominated streaming charts. Early reactions on TikTok and X show fans already using the chorus for couple content, dance challenges, and wedding mood boards.

“Don’t Be Shy” is now streaming on all major platforms, with an official music video expected to drop later this month.

Sport

Naomi Osaka’s Wimbledon Style Moment Included a Bridal Kimono, an Obi Belt & a Nod to Kill Bill

by Women Times on July 1, 2026

By Prosper Mene

London, UK – July 2026

Naomi Osaka turned Centre Court’s fashion focus off-court this week with a show-stopping Wimbledon look that blended Japanese tradition, bridal elegance, and a cinematic wink to Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill.

The four-time Grand Slam champion arrived for a Wimbledon appearance in a custom bridal-inspired kimono, styled with a sculpted obi belt cinched at the waist. The look, crafted in ivory and soft champagne tones, featured intricate embroidery and a flowing silhouette that nodded to traditional bridal wear while keeping a modern, athletic edge.

Fashion insiders quickly spotted the Kill Bill reference: the obi belt’s bold structure and the kimono’s sharp lines echoed the iconic yellow tracksuit aesthetic made famous by Uma Thurman’s character, The Bride. Osaka completed the moment with minimal accessories, sleek hair, and a confident stance that balanced heritage with pop-culture flair.

Speaking about the look, stylists close to the tennis star said the intention was to “honor Japanese craftsmanship while playing with cinematic storytelling.” The kimono was reportedly designed in collaboration with a Tokyo-based couture house known for reimagining cultural dress for global stages.

Osaka, who has become one of tennis’ most influential style voices in recent years, used the Wimbledon platform to spotlight Japanese design at one of the sport’s most traditional tournaments. The moment went viral within minutes on social media, with fans praising the fusion of “bridal softness, martial energy, and high fashion.”

The 2026 Wimbledon Championships have seen several players embrace bolder off-court fashion, but Osaka’s bridal kimono stands out as one of the tournament’s most talked-about cultural crossovers so far.