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Katsina First Lady Calls for United Front Against Polio: “Every Child Deserves Protection

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

October 24, 2025 –

Hajiya Zulaihat Radda, the First Lady of Katsina State, has rallied residents, community leaders, and health stakeholders to unite in the fight to eradicate polio once and for all. Speaking at a high-level media dialogue on immunization organized by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Katsina State Government, she emphasized that collective action is the only path to a polio-free future for the state’s children.

“Polio is not just a health challenge; it’s a threat to our children’s dreams and our shared prosperity,” Hajiya Radda declared. “We must all play our part—parents, fathers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the media—to ensure no child is left behind. Vaccines are free, safe, and our greatest weapon. Let us commit today to a Katsina where every family thrives without fear of this preventable disease.”

The event, held in the state capital, focused on the upcoming Integrated October Polio Vaccination Campaign, which aims to reach at least 4.8 million children aged 9 months to 14 years with measles-rubella vaccines and 2.3 million under-fives with novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2). This initiative comes as Katsina remains one of Nigeria’s “Axis of Intractable Transmission” states, grappling with circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2). Earlier this year, the state reported 16 cases across five local government areas, underscoring the urgency of intensified efforts.

Hajiya Radda’s remarks built on her ongoing advocacy, including a December 2024 gender mainstreaming program that engaged men’s groups like “Majalisar Riga-kafi” to boost immunization rates. UNICEF Kano Field Office Chief Rahama Farah, who addressed the dialogue, praised the First Lady’s leadership, noting that her involvement has been pivotal in targeting over 45% fully immunized children by year’s end. “With partners like the First Lady, we’re not just vaccinating, we’re transforming communities,” Farah said. “The governor’s support and these male involvement strategies will help us end transmission and close the zero-dose gap.”

Health experts at the forum highlighted operational challenges, such as security issues in hard-to-reach areas like Batsari LGA, where 98% of recent cases originated. World Health Organization (WHO) representatives reiterated their commitment to supporting door-to-door campaigns and directly observed oral polio vaccination (DOOPV) to reach every eligible child. “Nigeria is close to certification as polio-free, but Katsina’s role is critical,” said WHO State Coordinator Dr. Abdulnasir Adamu. “Through relentless outreach, we’re ensuring access to quality healthcare for all, aligning with our triple billion targets.”

The First Lady’s call loudens broader African initiatives, where first ladies have historically championed polio eradication, from the 2015 African Union pledge to recent continent-wide summits. In Katsina, her efforts are part of a multi-pronged strategy: community sensitization, media mobilization, and accountability measures to reduce missed children, a persistent hurdle identified in past studies, where non-compliance rates once hovered near 50%.

While the vaccination campaign kicks off, officials urge parents to present children at designated posts and dispel myths about vaccine safety. “This is our moment,” Hajiya Radda concluded. “Together, we can vaccinate our way to victory and build a healthier Katsina for generations to come.”

 

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Lifestyle

The Price of Fame: BBNaija’s Thelma Lawson Reveals the High Cost of Post-Show Life

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

Lagos, Nigeria – October 23, 2025

In a candid revelation that’s striking a chord among reality TV enthusiasts, former Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) Season 10 housemate Thelma Lawson has laid bare the glittering yet grueling realities of life beyond the house.

The 27-year-old lifestyle influencer and skincare entrepreneur, who captivated audiences with her bold fashion choices during the show’s “10/10” edition, confessed that her newfound spotlight has come with a hefty price tag, both financially and emotionally.

Speaking in a recent interview with Yanga FM in Lagos, Lawson didn’t mince words: “This new life is expensive.” The Rivers State native, who exited the house earlier this month amid the season’s dramatic finale, explained that the constant demand to “show up” for events has transformed her everyday existence into a high-stakes performance. Dubbed the “most fashionable” housemate by fans and media alike, Lawson now finds herself under a microscope, with an eager audience dissecting her every outfit.

“You’re constantly showing up for events,” she elaborated. “I came out of the house and found out that I’d been named the most fashionable. Now, there’s an audience waiting to see what Thelma is wearing.”

The pressure to curate a flawless wardrobe isn’t just about vanity, it’s a survival tactic in the cutthroat world of influencer culture, where one underwhelming look could dim the glow of her rising star.

But the expenses don’t stop at sequins and stilettos. As the owner of a thriving skincare business, Lawson revealed how the dual demands of fame and entrepreneurship are stretching her resources thin. “It’s not just the lifestyle, my business requires constant restocking, and it’s very, very overwhelming,” she admitted.

From sourcing premium ingredients to fulfilling online orders that spiked post-show, the behind-the-scenes grind is as relentless as the red-carpet circuit.

Lawson’s lament echoes a familiar refrain among BBNaija alumni, who often trade the house’s structured drama for the unpredictable chaos of celebrity.

Past seasons have seen housemates grapple with similar post-eviction blues, from mounting endorsement deals to the isolation of sudden scrutiny.

Despite the strain, Lawson remains optimistic. “It can be draining, but it’s rewarding too,” she noted, hinting at upcoming projects that blend her passions for beauty and bold style.

As BBNaija Season 10’s echoes fade, crowned by winner Imisi earlier this month, Lawson’s voice serves as a timely reminder: Fame’s door may swing wide open, but keeping it from slamming shut demands more than just star power. It takes a bank account to match.

For aspiring reality stars tuning in, Lawson’s message is clear: Dream big, but budget bigger. In the world of lights, cameras, and endless events, the real challenge isn’t surviving the house, it’s thriving outside it.

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Entertainment

A Stylist’s Chair and a Thousand Stories: How Debbie’s Salon Captures the Heart of Everyday Life

by Women Times on

By Azeez Disu

The axiom ‘A single stick may smoke, but it will not burn’ speaks volumes about the importance of community and shared spaces where burdens are lightened and life’s deepest secrets are often unveiled. In contemporary Lagos, such a communal stage exists not in a marketplace or village square, but within the vibrant, often chaotic, embrace of neighbourhood beauty salons.

This reality, rich with humour, conflict, and profound human connection, forms the compelling foundation of the newest Nollywood sensation, Debbie’s Salon: The Series. The premiere, a dazzling event that illuminated the cultural heart of Lekki, was far more than a simple launch; it was a reaffirmation of the salon’s vital role as the storyteller of the modern Nigerian experience—a place where real life is dramatised, polished, and served up with a side of ‘tea’.

 

The Night the Drama Began: A Premiere for the Ages

The atmosphere at Nile Cinemas in Lekki, Lagos, on 13 October 2025, was electric. The air buzzed with the distinctive energy of a city eagerly anticipating its next obsession. The premiere of Debbie’s Salon: The Series was a star-studded gala, attracting Nollywood’s finest, including icons such as Funke Akindele and Stan Nze, whose red carpet appearances added immense gravitas. The night was enlivened by captivating musical performances and a keynote speech that set the tone for a series expected to be both reflective and riotously entertaining.

The event marked the culmination of a ‘long journey,’ as Charles Lenny, who portrays Jamal, noted. The anticipation was palpable, especially among those involved in the production. Guests, dressed in exquisite attire, eagerly awaited the outcome of months of dedication. One enthusiastic guest remarked that their expectations were twofold: to enjoy ‘good belly laughs’ and to witness ‘a little bit of drama’.

The Salon: A Melting Pot of Nigerian Society

Debbie’s Salon is positioned as a family comedy-drama set in a hair salon in Lekki, Lagos State. Yet, its physical location is merely a vessel for a much deeper narrative. The salon, as described by the series creators, serves as a ‘melting pot’ for all kinds of human experiences.

Airing on Africa Magic Family, the series aims to be universally relatable. Whether viewers are part of Gen Z, Millennials, or the Baby Boomers, ‘everybody has a story to tell’. The salon is depicted not just as a place for hair transformations but as ‘a stage where lives are transformed—one hair at a time,’ as Yinka Adebayo, Executive Producer, explains.

Amidst the humming dryers and the scent of chemical treatments, ‘the darnest things happen’. The show promises a heady mix of ‘fun, drama, chaos’, with moral lessons woven throughout—ensuring ‘there’s something for everyone’. The narrative structure is designed to keep viewers guessing; as one commentator observed, ‘you might think you know how it’s going to end, and then something just blows you away’.

This storytelling power draws on an ancient wisdom: ‘If you are not afraid of the wind, why are you wearing a long dress?’ The series explores the hidden truths of daily life—those vulnerable secrets people often keep concealed.

The Vision of the Production Team: A Dream Realised

Behind the scenes, the series boasts a talented production team, including Producer Debbie Odutayo, and Executive Producers Yinka Adebayo and Greg Odutayo.

Their aim is to reflect the complexities of contemporary Nigerian society. The series showcases ‘an engaging storyline’ that centres on ‘our daily lives and the things people hide’, exposing these secrets within the salon’s vibrant environment.

 

A Gallery of Characters: The Heart of the Salon

The soul of Debbie’s Salon lies in its diverse and dynamic cast of characters, each bringing their unique flavour to the narrative.

For example, Lilian is portrayed as ‘a very smart young lady’ who ‘can be a bit of a handful at times’. Jamal is a character many viewers will love for his charm. Carol offers a softer, more reserved counterpoint to the impending chaos—‘she’s very gentle and prefers to stay out of the fight,’ explains the series’ producer. In contrast, Blessing is the fiery spirit of the salon. ‘Blessing is chaotic, dramatic, and the life of the party,’ the producer adds.

The series also captures emotional depth through characters like Adola, a ‘typical body’ who is ‘also very talented’. Her mistakes primarily stem from having ‘had a hard life’. Debbie’s Salon ensures even flawed characters are rooted in relatable vulnerabilities, reminding us that ‘the tears shed today will give way to sunshine tomorrow’.

Among the most complex figures is Alex—described as ‘interesting’, ‘intelligent’, and ‘vulnerable’.

Why We Are Watching: Authenticity in Action

A recurring theme throughout the premiere was the genuine nature of the drama. This isn’t fabricated melodrama; as host Sam Dandy declared, it is ‘a reflection of Nigerian society’. 

One guest eloquently expressed the show’s promise of unexpected twists: ‘You will relate to someone in the series—whether they’re Gen Z, Millennials, or Boomers.’ The ultimate reward, according to cast members reunited at the event, is the sense of community forged during filming. The actor playing Blessing shared that ‘the most exciting part was the friends I made,’ adding, ‘I miss those memories and I’m here to recreate them.’

Debbie’s Salon demonstrates that while conversations and consequences may be dramatic—bordering on chaos—the series remains grounded in lessons and family values.

 

The Verdict: Where to Find the Drama

The series airs Monday to Friday at 9:00 p.m. on Africa Magic Family. The message from the creators is clear: ‘Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.’

The night’s sentiment was captured perfectly by Sam Dandy, who summed up the anticipation: ‘Debbie’s Salon is a reflection of Nigerian society—you’ll see yourself in it. If you love drama, this is where you want to be.’

Debbie’s Salon promises to be the must-watch series of the season—a captivating showcase of human stories that reminds us that sometimes, the most theatrical stage in Lagos is simply a stylist’s chair.

 

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Fashionista

Ebettz Fashion and Accessories Unveils “The Unapologetic” Collection: Redefining Confidence and Style

by Women Times on

Ebettz Fashion and Accessories, a leading name in premium e-fashion renowned for its daring fusion of sophistication, edge, and empowerment, has unveiled its latest collection, “The Unapologetic.”

Sourced directly from top designers worldwide, this new lineup features striking statement pieces designed to inspire confidence, celebrate individuality, and embody strength. Every item has been carefully curated to ensure women receive the highest quality and style, allowing them to look commanding and feel authentically themselves.

More than just apparel, “The Unapologetic” signifies a movement for women who own their uniqueness and approach every situation with authority. The collection showcases sharp tailoring, elegant silhouettes, and timeless accessories—each piece a testament to attitude, identity, and bold self-expression.

Under the mantra “Act like a Lady. Dress like a Boss,” Ebettz continues to revolutionize fashion retail by offering high-end, designer-quality pieces through a seamless online shopping experience. Known for its commitment to originality and empowering style, the brand remains a trusted destination for women seeking to make a statement with their fashion choices.

The “Unapologetic” collection is now available exclusively at www.ebettzfashion.com.ng.

About Ebettz Fashion and Accessories
Ebettz Fashion and Accessories is a premium e-fashion brand that sources and curates designer-quality clothing and accessories for women. With a commitment to originality and empowerment, the brand ensures every woman can stand out confidently and
unapologetically. Operating under its powerful slogan, “Act like a Lady. Dress like a Boss,” Ebettz continues to merge edge and elegance, redefining modern fashion for women everywhere.

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Lifestyle

Nigerian Designers Set to Showcase Collections at Africa Fashion Week London 2025

by Women Times on

Two prominent Nigerian fashion houses, Henri Uduku and Black Fine and Fly, are set to showcase their collections at Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL) 2025, taking place on August 9–10 at Space House, London. This event, under the auspices of the British Council, highlights Nigeria’s vibrant contribution to Africa’s creative industry on an international stage.

The event will feature a dedicated British Council runway presentation and an exhibition pavilion spotlighting innovative young designers from across Africa. The initiative aims to foster new global connections, open markets, and promote cultural exchange, collaboration, and business expansion within the fashion industry.

Joining the Nigerian designers are eight others from Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Ghana, and Zimbabwe—all alumni or current participants of the British Council’s Creative DNA fashion accelerator programme. Since its inception in 2020, the programme has supported over 200 fashion entrepreneurs through mentorship, business development, and showcasing opportunities, strengthening Africa’s creative economy and fostering international partnerships.

Henry Uduku, founder and creative director of his eponymous menswear label, is no stranger to international exposure. He has previously showcased his work at major platforms such as Cairo’s Creative Africa Nexus and Zimbabwe’s Creative Economy Week, exemplifying a new generation of African designers redefining fashion with purpose.

Black Fine and Fly, a recent addition to the programme, is an Afro-European collective inspired by African heritage and culture, known for its denim designs rooted in African style.

Beyond the runway and exhibition, participating designers will attend business clinics, panel discussions with UK fashion experts from Westminster University and the Fashion Retail Academy, and explore London’s retail and manufacturing ecosystems. These activities offer valuable insights into sustainable production, industry standards, and international markets. The cultural exchange emphasizes exploring the UK’s fashion landscape, including supplier networks and retail collaborations.

This year’s British Council Pavilion will also showcase the future of fashion through the integration of technology—highlighting collaborations between African designers and AI labs or robotics engineers to explore virtual reality runways and digital avatars, paving the way for virtual fashion presentations across continents.

Donna McGowan, British Council Nigeria’s Country Director, emphasized Nigeria’s significant role in the global fashion scene, noting that the country’s creative industry contributes over $7 billion annually. She highlighted AFWL’s role in providing emerging Nigerian designers critical international exposure to expand their brands sustainably.

Farai Ncube Tarwireyi, Regional Arts Director, Sub-Saharan Africa, British Council and Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, Founder of Africa Fashion Week London

Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, founder of AFWL, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating that it advances the mission to elevate African fashion globally and deepen cross-cultural connections.

Visitors are encouraged to attend the British Council Pavilion and the Creative DNA catwalk show scheduled for Saturday, August 9, at 4:00 PM.

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Entertainment

Wordsofazia Unveils ‘Modern Wihegou’. A Spiritually-Rich Debut EP Rooted In Ancestral Memory And African Womanhood

by Women Times on

’Listen Here | Watch Here | EP Release Date: July 11, 2025

With the release of her debut EP Modern Wihegou, Ivorian-born storyteller and experimental jazz artist wordsofAzia steps fully into her voice; one shaped by ancestral echoes, matriarchal lineage, and a deep spiritual journey that spans continents.
Currently based between Paris, London, and Abidjan, wordsofAzia draws from the
Bhété oral tradition of her people in Ivory Coast, weaving together spoken word, jazz, ambient textures, and indigenous rhythms. The result is a body of work that feels both ancient and futuristic, deeply rooted yet fearlessly forward.

“Each song is a dialogue with the women who walked before me – my grandmothers, my mother, my ancestors. I am their echo,” says Azia.

Created across Dakar, Paris, London, and Abidjan using her portable studio setup, Modern Wihegou is an intimate, nomadic creation. The project was mixed and mastered by UK-based sound engineer Eliade Krön, and features tape recordings, vocal samples from her mother and grandmother, and layers of minimalist percussion and ambient synths.

From the soul-stirring track Lagô, written in Dakar and inspired by prayer, to voice notes passed down through generations, Modern Wihegou is a sonic ritual. It’s music for stillness. For walking. For lighting a candle. For listening not just with ears, but with the spirit.

“The music is instinctive,” Azia shares. “Sometimes I start with one instrument, other times with my mother’s voice, or an archive of my grandmother singing. I’m building bridges, between generations, between worlds.”

 

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About wordsofAzia | Socials: @wordsofazia (IG / TikTok)

Born in Ivory Coast and raised in Paris, wordsofAzia is a multidisciplinary artist blending music, spoken word, and visual storytelling to explore feminine divinity, ancestral power, and African identity. Her work lives at the intersection of Alternative Jazz, Afrofuturism, and oral tradition, resonating with audiences seeking depth, healing, and cultural immersion.
Visually, her work evokes the spirit of royalty and spiritual symbolism. Sonically, she lives in the same world as Mayra Andrade, Asa, Fatoumata Diawara, Blick Bassy, The Cavemen, and Kokoroko.

Genre: AfroJazz | Alternative Jazz | Spoken Word | Indigenous Fusion | World Music
For media inquiries, interviews, or further press materials, please contact woa@yaaas.co

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Health

Revolutionizing Healthcare Access: AXA Mansard Introduces Digital, Installment-Based Health Insurance

by Women Times on

In a significant stride to improve healthcare accessibility across Nigeria, AXA Mansard Health Limited has introduced a fully digital health insurance product featuring flexible monthly payment options. This innovative offering allows customers to spread their premiums over up to 10 months, replacing the traditional single annual payment and making health coverage more affordable for millions of Nigerians.

Designed to meet Nigerians where they are, the new product eliminates common financial and procedural barriers that have historically hindered access to quality healthcare. The solution is entirely digital, enabling seamless onboarding and management through an intuitive, mobile-friendly platform.

“Health insurance shouldn’t be a luxury; it should be a lifeline,” said Mrs. Adebola Surakat, Chief Marketing Officer at AXA Mansard. “With our extended solution, we’ve simplified the journey. Nigerians can now access the protection they need—anytime, anywhere—without the burden of a large upfront payment. It’s affordable, flexible, and accessible.”

Addressing a key challenge in Nigeria’s healthcare landscape—low insurance penetration due to cost and accessibility—the new offering aims to reach a broader demographic, including students, artisans, young families, and professionals. By removing paperwork and incorporating digital onboarding, AXA Mansard is bringing innovation to the market and empowering more Nigerians to prioritize their health.

“This isn’t just another health insurance product; it’s a gateway to quality healthcare that everyone can afford,” Mrs. Surakat added. “Customers can choose from tailored plans that suit their income and health needs. The platform’s user-friendly design ensures a quick, seamless experience.”

Nigerians can explore and enroll in the new health insurance plans easily online by visiting [https://www.axamansard.com/health/plans-details](https://www.axamansard.com/health/plans-details).

 

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Health

AXA Mansard Health Pledges Enhanced Service Delivery, Customer-Centric Approach at South-West Providers’ Forum

by Women Times on

AXA Mansard Health, Nigeria’s leading health insurance provider, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to delivering quality healthcare to its millions of customers nationwide.

During the recent South-West Provider Forum held in Ibadan, CEO Tope Adeniyi emphasized that the event underscores the company’s ongoing dedication to collaborating with healthcare providers to ensure affordable, accessible, and high-quality medical services across Nigeria.

Adeniyi explained that the forum serves as a platform for AXA Mansard Health to engage with its providers and explore innovative ways to enhance patient care. “At AXA Mansard Health, our core value is putting the customer first. This isn’t just a slogan—it’s the guiding principle behind everything we do, from product development and process improvements to CSR initiatives. We are built on protecting what matters most to our customers, and it’s through our providers—hospitals, clinics, labs—that this value is realized. Today’s gathering is about strengthening these partnerships to ensure our customers receive the best healthcare possible,” he stated.

He further highlighted, “Our customers always come first, followed closely by our providers. Maintaining this model will keep us at the forefront of healthcare in Nigeria. Our vision is to expand our reach across the country, bringing premium healthcare services to every Nigerian, because they deserve it. These forums are vital for building strong collaborations with our providers, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for all.”

Since its inception, the forum series has been held in major cities, including Lagos, Port Harcourt, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Ibadan, and Abuja, over the past four months. It reflects AXA Mansard Health’s commitment to bridging the healthcare gap and making quality services accessible beyond Nigeria’s urban centers. This nationwide approach fosters collaboration, sharing best practices, and addressing the distinct healthcare challenges faced across different regions.

Nigeria’s healthcare system faces significant hurdles, with just about 4.08% of GDP allocated to health and a doctor-to-patient ratio of approximately 1:10,000—far below the WHO recommendation of 1:600. Rural areas often experience limited access and higher out-of-pocket costs, underscoring the importance of initiatives like this Providers’ Forum to improve healthcare delivery for all Nigerians.

AXA Mansard Health remains committed to enhancing its offerings and the overall healthcare experience through these engagements. The company plans to host future forums in the Southeast region, further demonstrating its dedication to ensuring quality healthcare is within reach for every Nigerian.

“As we look toward 2025, the insights and feedback from these forums will be instrumental in shaping our strategies to improve customer experience and expand access to quality healthcare across Nigeria,” Adeniyi concluded.

 

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Fashionista

Empowering Through Style: How Omidiora Titilayo is Redefining Nigerian Fashion from Ibadan

by Women Times on

For Omidiora Titilayo Alice , the founder and Creative Director of Blaze Seam Fashion house located in Ibadan the Capital city of Oyo state, Fashion is part of her soul . But unlike other Fashion designers, her mission is to help people especailly fashion enthusiasts to express their individuality and confidence through intentional styling and timeless designs.

The Ibadan based designer who has successfully carved herself a niche in Nigeria’s fashion industry said she aim to tailor her brand to specifically suit and compliment Nigerians , while remaining stylish yet comfortable, functional and affordable.

Before venturing into Fashion World, Titilayo had a stint in modeling while she was a student of University of Ibadan .According to her , Blaze Seam was born out of a passion she had nurtured while studying and modeling

She said “The Brand idea came up when i was modeling for fashion brands and then began crafting pieces during school breaks.The rest is now history . My aim is to shift away from Western-centric fashion styles and norms, i want to put a Pan Nigeria/African clothing needs with versatile fabrics and fits, where it will be acceptable and accomodated globally..

When asked about her unique selling point, She smiled and said ” Sometimes last year , we decided to think outside the box by shifting from the industry style of focusing only on branding for a particular gender . At the moment, my brand is gradually gaining huge followership among the male folks beacuse of our unique style of making Vintage.Shirts and the rest .”

Born to a family of Five children where she’s the only female child . , the award winning entrepreneur who has won several fashion awards believe Nigerias Fashion industry is the place to be due to the economic growth and development activities taking place.”There are lot of opportunities in the industry , we are just scrathing the surface. Famous Fashion designers are trooping in to different countries in Africa daily to seek for new ideas and styles .one only needs to get into it with full confidence.” she disclosed . This could mean – as a next step – expanding her business, and providing high-quality clothing across Nigeria and beyond .

With its headquarter in Ibadan, Blaze Seam have showcased its brand in several runways and Fashion shows in Nigeria including the famous Ibadan Ankara Fiesta . .The Brand is expected to participate in the forthcoming Swiss/Nigeria beauty and Fashion exhibition where she aim to expand her clientele outside south west part of Nigeria to other part of Nigeria and beyond.

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HealthUncategorized

UNICEF Donates 1.4 Million Polio Vaccines to Adamawa, Aiding Women and Children’s Healthh

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene, 18 April 2025

In effects to eradicate polio in Nigeria, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has donated 1.433 million doses of polio vaccines to the Adamawa State government. This generous contribution, announced on April 17, 2025, targets children aged 0 to 59 months in an upcoming immunization campaign, reinforcing the state’s efforts to protect its youngest citizens from the crippling disease. Beyond its immediate goal of polio eradication, this initiative carries profound benefits for women in Adamawa, empowering them through improved child health, reduced caregiving burdens, and enhanced opportunities for personal and community development.

Polio, a highly infectious viral disease, can lead to irreversible paralysis, particularly in young children. Adamawa, like many regions in northern Nigeria, has faced challenges in achieving universal immunization coverage due to logistical barriers and socio-economic constraints. UNICEF’s donation addresses these gaps by ensuring a robust supply of vaccines, enabling health workers to reach even the most remote communities. The campaign will involve door-to-door vaccinations and community health outreaches, ensuring that every eligible child is protected.

For women in Adamawa, this initiative is a transformative step forward. Mothers, grandmothers, and female caregivers bear the primary responsibility for nurturing young children, including those affected by polio-related disabilities. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of caring for a child with polio can be immense, limiting women’s ability to engage in income-generating activities, education, or community leadership. By preventing polio through widespread immunization, UNICEF’s donation alleviates these burdens, freeing women to pursue opportunities that enhance their economic independence and social empowerment.

Moreover, the campaign creates ripple effects for women’s health and agency. Immunization drives often serve as platforms for health education, where women learn about childcare, nutrition, and disease prevention. These interactions strengthen community health networks, many of which are led by female health workers and volunteers. In Adamawa, where women make up a significant portion of the community health workforce, such initiatives amplify their visibility and influence, fostering leadership and advocacy for broader gender equality.

Adamawa’s health authorities have expressed gratitude for UNICEF’s support, noting that the vaccines will bolster routine immunization programs and strengthen the state’s health infrastructure. For women, this means not only healthier children but also a more resilient healthcare system that supports their families’ well-being.

 

 

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