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World Health Day 2025: WHO to Spotlight Women And Babies’ Survival

by Women Times on

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially announced the theme of World Health Day 2025, Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures, which will focus on improving maternal and newborn health and survival.

World Health Day is marked around the world on 7th April, the anniversary of WHO’s founding in 1948. Each year, it draws attention to a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world.

“The focus of this campaign comes at a crucial moment, aiming to help countries regain lost progress while showcasing new research and evidence that will enhance the health of women and babies globally,” said Dr Anshu Banerjee, Director of Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health and Ageing at WHO. “As rollbacks to humanitarian assistance jeopardize a critical lifeline for millions, it will also be an opportunity to step up support and collaboration for global health – and deliver hope to those in urgent need of lifesaving care.”

Helping every woman and baby survive and thrive

According to the most recent estimates, close to 300 000 women lose their life due to pregnancy or childbirth each year; over 2 million babies die in their first month of life, and around 2 million more are stillborn. This is roughly 1 preventable death every 7 seconds – losses which bring tremendous sadness and heartache to millions of families around the world.

While maternal and newborn deaths occur in all regions, the vast majority are in the poorest countries and those facing conflict and other crises. When health care facilities close, facilities are attacked, access routes denied or supplies disrupted, pregnant women and babies – who need regular access to health services – face severe, often life-threatening risks.

Based on current trends, a staggering 4 out of 5 countries are off track to meet the United Nations’ global targets for improving maternal survival by 2030; 1 in 3 will fail to meet targets for reducing newborn deaths. Current funding constraints could further jeopardize progress, as many programmes providing critical health services have stalled alongside important medical research focused on pregnant and breastfeeding women and children.

This year’s campaign, which will run until 2026, will urge governments, donors and the health community to invest in proven, high-impact interventions, as part of efforts to improve overall quality of care. These include pregnancy related services to detect complications and lifesaving emergency obstetrics – noting that the vast majority of maternal and newborn deaths happen during or shortly after birth – as well as special care for small and preterm babies. Complications relating to prematurity are now the leading cause of death of children under-5 worldwide.

WHO will also highlight the evolving need for health systems to address the many underlying health issues that impact maternal and newborn health. These include not only direct obstetric complications but also mental health conditions, malnutrition (including under and overnutrition as well as nutritional deficiencies), and an increasing burden of noncommunicable diseases.

Listening to women and supporting families

Moving beyond actions to save lives, the campaign will urge increased global attention to women’s longer-term health and well-being. This includes advocating for laws and policies that safeguard their health and rights, such as paid maternity leave and other critical employment protections, and access to vital family planning services.

“It is not sufficient that women survive childbirth, they must also be able to enjoy their lives in good health,” said Dr Pascale Allotey, Director for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research at WHO. “Women and girls everywhere need access to health providers who listen to their concerns and meet their needs, while ensuring they can plan their fertility, take charge of their futures, and protect their health.”

Efforts are also needed to address the particular risks of climate change for pregnant women and newborns,  as evidence shows an association between higher temperatures and preterm births, stillbirth, hypertension and gestational diabetes, as well as infant mortality.

An investment, not a cost

In low- and middle-income countries, every US$1 invested in maternal and newborn health is estimated to yield around US$9 to 20 in return. Evidence shows that spending on maternal and newborn health leads to economic development and happier, healthier societies.

Around the world, WHO is supporting essential maternal and newborn health programmes including through:

  • Intensive support to 55 countries through the Every Woman Every Newborn Everywhere initiative, which is working to expand access to lifesaving emergency obstetric and newborn care units, family planning and other critical services;
  • Guidance relating to diverse aspects of maternal and newborn health through pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period.  New recommendations will be published later this year to help clinicians manage postpartum haemorrhage, one of the world’s leading causes of maternal deaths, and noncommunicable diseases in pregnancy;
  • Research to improve clinical care options for pregnant women and newborns, including during epidemics when it is critical to ensure high-risk populations are not left behind;
  • Ensuring maternity and newborn care during humanitarian emergencies, like mobile clinics and health posts in Syria and Sudan, where millions of women and babies would otherwise miss out on lifesaving medical screenings, vaccinations and treatments.
  • Support for health workers providing essential care to pregnant women and babies, such as efforts to strengthen the vital role of midwives within health systems through training, accreditation and related guidance.

Get involved

Here’s what you can do to support the campaign

  • Spread awareness: share information about the campaign using #HopefulFutures and #HealthForAll;
  • Participate: attend our global events to learn more about what it will take to end maternal and newborn mortality; organize your own local activities;
  • Donate: contribute to the WHO Foundation, which supports WHO’s work to protect mothers and babies in countries around the world;
  • Share personal experiences: Across its platforms, WHO will be launching new content to help women share birth stories and lived experiences from around the world, and to thank those who provide quality care.

 

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Health

AXA Mansard Health Employees Partner with LUTH to Donate Blood

by Women Times on

Nigeria’s leading Health Insurance Company, AXA Mansard Health has partnered with the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LUTH to donate over 250 pints of blood.

 

According to the insurance firm, this was done under the company volunteering programme, tagged AXA Hearts in Action, the initiative saw more than 100 employee of AXA donate blood during the drive.

 

AXA Hearts in Action (AHIA), is AXA’s global programme aimed at contributing to positive societal and environmental impacts through employee volunteering, and expertise related financial support and in-kind donations.

“Through the AHIA, our employees do not just give time to great causes; we work together for a better future.

 

We share our time, knowledge and expertise as a people with a shared purpose of acting for human progress by protecting what matters through initiatives like this”, said the Chief Client Officer, AXA Mansard,  Rashidat Adebisi.

Adebisi said the blood drive is a shining example of the philosophy in action, where collective contributions serve as a reminder that true impact often involves giving more than just money. It’s about putting one’s heart in action – an idea embedded in AXA’s corporate culture”.

 

Speaking on the initiative, the Chief Executive Officer, AXA Mansard Health Limited, Tope Adeniyi, said  With hospitals frequently experiencing blood shortages, events like these serve as a lifeline for patients in need.

However, “We are proud to contribute to the local healthcare sector and provide much-needed support to hospitals such as LUTH, ensuring that they have resources essential to saving lives.”

 

The Head of Corporate Services and Public Relations at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH). Omolola Olubukunola Fakeye, also expressed gratitude, stating, “The generous support from AXA Mansard has made a meaningful difference to our blood bank and ultimately to the lives of patients.

Blood donations are invaluable in many critical treatments, and initiatives like AXA Mansard’s blood drive bring immense relief to healthcare system.

We are sincerely grateful for this partnership and the dedication of AXA Mansard’s employees.”

 

AXA Hearts in Action operates globally, she urging AXA employees everywhere to engage with and give back to their communities. Through diverse projects – from health initiatives like this blood drive and medical outreaches to environmental efforts like the AXA Week for Good “Trash-to-Treasure” waste management project – AXA staff have opportunities to make a lasting difference on issues that matter.

 

For AXA Mansard, every act of social service brings them closer to the communities they serve, helping build a world where giving back is not only about charity but about lasting, positive change.

 

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Entertainment

Ayra Starr leads Spotify’s Nigeria Global Impact List 2025

by Women Times on

Nigerian music isn’t just a local force anymore, it’s a global takeover. Spotify’s 2025 Global Impact List shows just how far Nigerian music and artists have come, with Ayra Starr leading the way. This list celebrates the 30 Nigerian songs that have connected most powerfully with international audiences this year, highlighting the country’s ever-growing influence on the world stage.

Ayra Starr: Nigeria’s Global Hitmaker

Ayra Starr, the “Sabi Girl,” is a chart-topping force reshaping the global music scene. Her catchy hits consistently top Nigerian charts, and her influence resonates worldwide, turning her music into international anthems. This makes her a leading voice in the exciting evolution of global music, transforming the soundscape one hit at a time.

This influence is clearly evident in her chart dominance. As a Spotify RADAR and EQUAL alumna and Nigeria’s most-streamed female artist on the platform in 2024, Ayra Starr’s artistry and strategic approach to global music are undeniable. While only two of her own tracks, Last Heartbreak Song and Bad Vibes appear on the Spotify Global Impact List, her collaborative power is evident with the chart-topping success of Santa. This track, featuring her alongside producer Rvssian and Latin artist Rauw Alejandro, showcases Ayra’s ability to connect with diverse audiences and expand her reach through strategic partnerships across different markets. Her impressive showing on the list, with six entries including Commas, GOOD FEELiNGS and Hypé underscores her versatility and appeal.

Her album, The Year I Turned 21, also cemented her global reach, ranking among the top 10 most-streamed albums of the year. Santa’s undeniable popularity speaks volumes about her global appeal and influence.

 

The Power of Collaboration

The global reach of Nigerian music is significantly amplified by the power of collaboration. The Global Impact List underscores this crucial role, revealing that 22 of the 30 listed songs are collaborations. This demonstrates that such partnerships are not merely a trend, but a necessity for Nigerian artists seeking international success. While three of these collaborations feature fellow Nigerian artists,  19 involve partnerships with artists from other countries, highlighting how cross-continental collaborations drive global recognition. Top hits like Santa, WE PRAY (TINI Version), and Another Vibe perfectly illustrate this collaborative power.

Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, notes, “Nigerian artists are breaking boundaries and the world is listening. Nigerian music has always been rich and diverse, and at Spotify, we’re proud to amplify these talents globally.”

Explore the vibrant cross-cultural sounds of Spotify’s Gone Abroad playlist that showcases exciting collaborations between international artists and the best of Nigerian and African talent.

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Health

Empowered Voices: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Survivor Shares Her Journey To Freedom

by Women Times on

In Tarime, a small village in the Mara region in Tanzania, Amina, a survivor of female genital mutilation (FGM) shares her story of hope.

Growing up in a rural community, Amina experienced the weight of cultural traditions, including FGM. In her early teens, she endured the painful practice – a rite of passage long considered essential for women in her community. But for Amina, the traumatic experience ignited the need to challenge and change harmful norms.

“I didn’t understand why it was done to me,” Amina shares, her voice steady despite the pain of her past. “I felt like I had no control over my own body. But I knew I had to fight for the girls coming after me.”

Amina’s story is not one of silence but one of defiance. With the support of her family and local community leaders, she joined forces with others advocating for the end of FGM in Mara,  where prevalence remains high at 28 per cent. Amina builds alliances among grassroots activists, government officials, and civil society groups. She also mobilizes coalitions led by survivors, youth, and men, ensuring that the fight against FGM is sustained and amplified.

Today, Amina mentors other survivors, helping them access resources to rebuild their lives.

“When I look at the girls I helped today, I see strength. I see hope. We are fighting for a future where no girl has to suffer like we did,” Amina added.

Progress in ending FGM in Tanzania

In recent years, significant progress has been made in Tanzania’s fight against FGM, particularly in Manyara, Dodoma, and Mara regions. According to a recent government report, the prevalence of FGM has seen a marked decline over the past few years, due to advocacy, education, and multi-stakeholder efforts.

The Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, provided an update on the efforts to combat FGM during the  commeoration International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, celebrated every February 6.
Dr. Gwajima shared that between 2015 and 2023, Manyara saw a decrease in FGM prevalence from 58 per cent to 43 per cent, Dodoma dropped from 41 per cent to 18 per cent, and Mara saw a decrease from 32 per cent to 28 per cent. Dr. Gwajima credited these reductions to community engagement, government initiatives, and partnerships with organizations like UNFPA.

“Though we still have work to do, the decline in FGM rates in Manyara, Dodoma, and Mara shows that change is possible,” Dr. Gwajima stated.

“The efforts of individuals like Amina and local organizations are critical to these successes. We are committed to continuing these efforts until FGM is eradicated in all regions.”

However, despite the progress, Manyara and Arusha still have high prevalence rates at 43 per cent, followed by Mara at 28 per cent. These numbers highlight the need for continued investment in the implementation of the  National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children and the National Anti-FGM Strategy. Strengthening legal enforcement, ensuring justice for survivors, and providing necessary care remain essential.

UNFPA’s Role in the Fight Against FGM

UNFPA Tanzania Representative, Mr. Mark Bryan Schreiner, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between the government, local communities, and civil society.

“The reduction of FGM cases throughout Tanzania shows the collective work being done to protect girls and empower communities. We must continue strengthening efforts to eliminate FGM and ensure no girl is subjected to this harmful practice.” Mr. Schreiner said.

UNFPA supports community mobilization, survivor assistance, and awareness campaigns challenging harmful cultural norms. By empowering local leaders, women, and youth, UNFPA contributes to gender equality and reproductive health access across Tanzania. Ending FGM demands the involvement of girls, women, survivors, men, youth, traditional and religious leaders, governments, private sector actors, and donors.

Amina’s bright future

Tanzania is making remarkable strides toward the elimination of FGM. While there is still much work to be done, the stories of survivors like

Amina reminds the world that change is not only possible—it’s already happening.

The theme for 2025, “Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM,” underscores the urgency of accelerating action, increasing investment, fostering partnerships, and centering survivor voices. UNFPA Tanzania remains committed to supporting survivors and communities in creating a world where all girls grow up free from violence, fear, and harm.

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Sport

Chiney Ogwumike Named Basketball Africa League Ambassador

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The Basketball Africa League (BAL) named two-time WNBA All-Star and ESPN analyst, Chiney Ogwumike as the First Female BAL Ambassador. The announcement was made by BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall during the Africa Luncheon at All-Star Weekend in San Francisco.

Ogwumike is a passionate advocate for gender equity in sports and the sustainable development of basketball. Through her work, she aims to inspire young girls and women to take charge of their future and promote inclusive opportunities for all.

As a BAL Ambassador, Ogwumike will take an active role in the league’s initiatives across Africa, with a focus on engaging and empowering women and girls on the continent. She will also lead various events as well as clinics throughout the season, beginning with the Kalahari Conference, which tips off on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco.

Ogwumike joins several African NBA legends who are serving as BAL Ambassadors and helping to promote the league in Africa and around the world: 2011 NBA champion with the Dallas Mavericks Ian Mahinmi (Benin), two-time NBA All-Star Joakim Noah (Cameroon), two-time NBA All-Star and South Sudan Basketball Federation President Luol Deng, and former NBA player and G League executive Pops Mensah-Bonsu (Ghana).

“I am grateful for this tremendous opportunity to continue to inspire, uplift, and help grow the game across the continent, especially for young women and girls,” said Ogwumike. “Basketball has given me so much, and now, I get to give back in a way that creates real impact and celebrates my sisters on the continent. The future of basketball in Africa is limitless, and I can’t wait to be part of this journey.”

Ogwumike’s appointment marks a significant step in elevating women’s representation within the BAL and expanding the league’s influence across the continent.

Since its inception, the BAL has been a driving force for basketball development across the continent, providing meaningful opportunities for communities to engage with the sport. With Ogwumike’s leadership and advocacy, the BAL aims to expand its reach and impact, further inspiring the next generation of players and fans across Africa.

 

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Health

Merck Foundation CEO Provides 194 Oncology Scholarships to Advance Cancer Care in Africa

by Women Times on

Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marks ‘World Cancer Day 2025’ together with Africa’s First Ladies and Ministries of Health. Through their Cancer Access Program, Merck Foundation is is building quality and equitable cancer care capacity in Africa.  

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation, highlighted, “At Merck Foundation, we mark World Cancer Day not just as a single day, but as a our continued commitment to transform and advance cancer care in Africa.

Together with my dear sisters, the Africa’s First Ladies, we are have enhanced the cancer care capacity in the continent by providing 194 scholarships to young African doctors from 32 countries, significantly increasing the number of oncologists in Africa. We are making history together by providing these important scholarships for the first oncologists and /or the first cancer care teams in many countries across Africa.”

Merck Foundation in total provided more than 2100 scholarships to doctors from over 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.  

The Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program provides One, two- and three-years fellowship, Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of oncology for doctors from Africa. The clinical training has been conducted in India, Egypt and Kenya. Additionaly, Merck Foundation also provides scholarships for 2 years online PG Diploma in Cancer and Clinical Oncology, 01 year online PG Diploma in Medical Oncology and 1 year online PG Diploma in Pain Management from reputed Universities in UK like University of South Wales, University of Buckingham, Queen Mary University of London, and Cardiff University.

Merck Foundation is establishing Multidisciplinary Oncology Care teams in many African countries by providing scholarships of clinical training in Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Pediatrics Oncology, Gynecology Oncology, Breast Oncology, Haemato-Oncology, Orthopaedic Oncology, Palliative Care, Pathology Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Research in Oncology, Surgical Oncology – Genital Urinary System, Advanced Cytopathology Training, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Technician, Laboratory Technician, Oncology Nursing.

Merck Foundation through its Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program has provided 194 scholarships of Oncology to doctors from 32 countries including Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.  

“In several of these countries, there wasn’t even a single oncologist. We are proud to be making history in Africa by training the first oncologists and establishing the first cancer care teams in nations such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, and Niger. Merck Foundation remains committed to transforming the landscape of cancer care across the continent and leading Africa toward a healthier future,” explained Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Africa records around 1.1 million new cases of cancer, resulting in up to 700,000 deaths, every year, as per WHO data. The mortality rate of cancer patients is very high in Africa, as compared to the rest of the world.

“One of the key reasons is also the late diagnosis of the disease. Therefore, these scholarships are very important” added Senator Kelej.

Merck Foundation has also created awareness materials including awareness leaflets and videos on Cancer Prevention and Early Detection.

Dr. Chifundo Kajombo, Merck Foundation Alumni from Malawi shares, “I am privileged to be awarded a scholarship by Merck Foundation to pursue the Surgical Oncology fellowship training program at Tata Memorial Hospital, India. I managed to advance from basic surgical oncology principles to the advanced level. This has helped me improve my understanding of cancer and operative principles. Since returning back home, I have managed to change the structure of how our breast clinic runs and modified it to incorporate a number of new things that we probably could not have possibly included. I am so proud to share that I have just been awarded the Best Surgeon for 2023 in Malawi. I would not have achieved this feat without Merck Foundation’s scholarship. I am very thankful.”

Watch testimonials videos of Merck Foundation Oncology Fellowship Alumni: https://apo-opa.co/4bab06Y

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Entertainment

Onyinye Odokoro: Nollywood’s Breakout Star to Watch in 2025

by Women Times on

Rising star Onyinye Odokoro is making waves in the entertainment industry, rapidly carving out her place as one of the most exciting talents to watch in Nollywood this year. With her recent performances and screen presence, she is poised to leave a lasting impact on the Nigerian film industry.

Onyinye’s journey into Nollywood began when she moved to Lagos, driven by a deep passion for acting. Despite studying nursing at the University, her desire to pursue acting became undeniable. She recalled that it wasn’t something she could easily disregard and by her second year of university, she was certain she wanted to become an actor.

Onyinye was fully committed to charting her path, even if it meant stepping away from the conventional career route.

From childhood plays to full-time acting

Raised in Anambra and later moving to Enugu during her secondary school years, Onyinye’s childhood was filled with moments of play.

Her love for acting emerged early, with Onyinye actively participating in school plays and becoming a member of the church drama team. These formative experiences would become the foundation of her acting career. However, it wasn’t until her time at University that she realized acting was more than just a hobby; it was a calling.

Although Onyinye earned a nursing degree, her growing passion for acting could not be ignored. In 2020, she decided to leave behind the stability of the medical field and pursue her dream in Lagos.

Her choice was met with initial resistance from her family. In her words, “You don’t tell an African parent you want to leave nursing to pursue acting”. But persistence eventually won them over, and today they are supporters of her career.

Onyinye’s Transformative Journey in Nollywood

From her early roles in local productions to her breakout performance in the Sky original “Unwanted”, Onyinye Odokoro has consistently captivated audiences. One of her most notable roles came in “Unwanted”, where she played a crucial part in telling the story of migrants crossing the Mediterranean. The filming of Unwanted took place on the Mediterranean Sea, in the bone-chilling cold of January.

For Onyinye, acting is more than just glamour; it’s about using her craft to spark meaningful conversations. She says, “The most rewarding part of my journey is using my voice to speak on important societal issues.”

Her commitment to telling untold stories is also evident in her involvement with “God’s Wife”, a short film that addresses harmful widowhood practices in certain African communities. In this project, Onyinye’s role shines a light on social issues that are often overlooked, turning the spotlight on awareness and change.

Shining as Zara in “Princess on a Hill”

Onyinye Odokoro’s captivating portrayal of Zara Osara in Showmax’s “Princess on a Hill” has established her as one of Nollywood’s rising stars. Zara, a multifaceted character whose transformation from naïveté to resilience mirrors real-life growth, is played with depth and authenticity by Onyinye.

“She starts off looking like your girl-next-door,” Onyinye explains of her character, “but she’s incredibly intelligent. Watching her progression as she learns, adapts, and grows into her power was a joy to bring to life.”

Her portrayal of Zara is no easy feat, with the character featured prominently in almost every scene. Onyinye discusses the challenges of maintaining Zara’s emotional state throughout non-chronological filming: “It wasn’t just about learning the lines—it was about delivering them with emotional precision and staying true to Zara’s state of mind.” The stakes are high, with dialogues that push the boundaries of her craft, ultimately making the experience both transformative and enriching for her as an actress.

One of the show’s most captivating dynamics is the evolving relationship between Zara and Ozzy (played by Efa Iwara), a storyline that leaves viewers questioning: “Was he really a love interest, or is there more to the story?” As Onyinye teases, fans are in for a thrilling journey as they uncover the layers beneath the characters’ interactions.

As much as Princess on a Hill is about Zara’s growth, Onyinye also values the lessons woven into the series. The business-centric dialogues, such as those by the character Moyosore Lawson, resonate with aspiring entrepreneurs. “When Moyo speaks, you’ll feel like Tony Elumelu himself is giving you insider business secrets. Viewers will want to take notes,” she adds.

On her challenges and inspirations

For Onyinye, acting isn’t just about delivering lines; it’s about ensuring that the character’s essence is duly captured. “There’s always the wonder and worry—am I capturing this character’s truth?” she said.

This pursuit of authenticity drives her, and she finds inspiration in both Nigerian and international actresses. She admires Viola Davis’s fearless performances and the cultural impact of Genevieve Nnaji, acknowledging the way they shape their legacies. “I watch and learn from them. Their performances inspired me to dig deeper into my craft.”

Despite ongoing discussions about Nollywood’s struggle to produce new megastars, Onyinye remains optimistic about the industry’s direction. “There’s so much talent in Nollywood. We’re in a time when the audience has endless options across platforms like Showmax. While it’s harder for a single name to dominate, it’s a great time for actors to shine in their niches,” she reflects.

Her excitement about the evolving role of women in the industry is palpable. “More women are producing, directing, and leading projects, and I’m proud to be part of this movement where we tell our own stories unapologetically.”

A bright future for Onyinye Odokoro

As her career continues to skyrocket, Onyinye is excited about tackling a variety of roles that will challenge her even further. From rom-coms and family dramas to action films and sports dramas, she is eager to broaden her range. “I’ve always wanted to be part of an action role,” she said, hinting at a future full of new, dynamic challenges.

With her passion for storytelling, commitment to her craft, and versatility as an actress, Onyinye Odokoro is primed for an incredible 2025. From Princess on a Hill to other exciting projects on the horizon, this rising star is ready to take Nollywood—and the world—by storm.

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Health

AXA Mansard Health Empowers Abule Oja Community Through Employee-Led Medical Outreach

by Women Times on

Hundreds of residents in the Abule Oja community of Lagos State have benefited from a comprehensive medical outreach fully funded by AXA Mansard Health Limited. According to Tope Adeniyi, CEO of AXA Mansard Health, the initiative underscores the company’s commitment to promoting total wellness for all.

Adeniyi emphasized AXA Mansard Health’s dedication to universal health coverage, noting that while the company collaborates with national institutions to advance this goal in Nigeria, it also invests in community development initiatives that blend preventative health education with medical screenings and the distribution of mosquito nets.

“For us at AXA Mansard Health, universal health coverage is a critical issue. We believe that healthcare should be accessible, available, and affordable to everyone, regardless of their socio-economic, geographic, or educational background,” Adeniyi stated.

“This medical outreach is part of a series of programs we have planned to enhance community health this year. Earlier this year, we donated medical equipment to general hospitals in remote areas across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. We are committed to doing more. Our aspiration is for wellness to be a common thread throughout Nigeria, and we are embarking on this journey one community at a time.”

Adeniyi highlighted that the outreach is primarily driven by employee volunteers, stating, “Our employees, across all levels, have not only conceptualized this program but have also dedicated their time to its success. This demonstrates that our commitment goes beyond corporate social responsibility; it is deeply rooted in our organizational culture and reflects the values of our employees.”

Adebola Surakat, Chief Marketing Officer of AXA Mansard, added that the initiative falls under the AXA Hearts in Action program. “AXA Hearts in Action is our global employee volunteering initiative that embodies our mission to act for human progress. It ensures that our employees are not only focused on creating solutions for progress at work but also dedicate their time to causes that foster a healthier society.”

In response to the outreach, Alhaji Otunbade Nurudeen, Chairman of the Abule Oja Community Development Association, expressed gratitude to AXA Mansard for their support. “We are delighted to have AXA Mansard conduct this outreach in our community. We appreciate the investment of time, the provision of mosquito nets, health talks, and screenings. These significant gestures will greatly aid our community’s health, especially in the current economic climate,” he stated.

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Sport

Historic Victory: Nigeria’s U-19 Women’s Cricket Team Claims First ICC T20 World Cup Win

by Women Times on

Nigeria’s U-19 Women’s Cricket Team achieved a historic milestone by securing their first-ever ICC Women’s T20 World Cup win in Malaysia against New Zealand.

After batting first and managing a score of 65 for 6 in 13 overs, the Nigerian team’s bowlers and fielders put on a stellar performance, restricting New Zealand to 63 for 6 in their 13 overs.

Key players like Rukayat Abdul-Azeez and Esther Sandy excelled, both with the bat and ball, contributing significantly to this victory. This win is not just a game result; it’s a beacon of inspiration for Nigerian women in sports, showcasing the potential for cricket in a football-dominated country. It brings global attention to Nigerian women’s cricket, likely fostering more investment, training, and opportunities for young talents.

This success could lead to more international exposure and participation in future tournaments, marking a pivotal moment in the narrative of sports in Nigeria.

 

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Entertainment

The Real Housewives of Lagos Breaks First-Day Streaming Record on Showmax

by Women Times on

Episode 1 of The Real Housewives of Lagos (RHOLagos) Season 3 has set a new Showmax record for the most first-day views in Nigeria and Ghana, breaking its own record set in Season 2.

The Africa Magic Original premiered as a fast-follow release on Monday, 13 January on Showmax. The reality series was the third most streamed title on Showmax across Africa on its first day of release. Social media conversations on the reality TV show also saw the hashtag #RHOLagos peak at number one on the X trends list in Nigeria.

“This reaffirms our audience’s love for local content and authentic representation!”, said Dr Busola Tejumola, Executive Head, Content and West Africa Channels at MultiChoice Nigeria.

Tejumola added: “The Real Housewives of Lagos continues to drive meaningful engagement in Nigeria and across Africa due to its relatable storytelling, rich cultural display and engaging cast. We are absolutely thrilled to present this third season and look forward to an exciting run.”

This season promises to be the most extravagant yet, showcasing Lagos’ vibrant culture and dazzling lifestyle. Fan favourites Laura Ikeji Kanu, Mariam Timmer, and Carolyna Hutchings are back with their dynamic personalities and dramatic twists /,alongside three bold new additions: beauty queen and entrepreneur Dabota Lawson, beauty mogul and influencer Adeola “Diiadem” Adeyemi, and media personality Sophia Momodu.

The Real Housewives franchise is distributed internationally by NBCUniversal Formats, which is part of Universal International Studios, a division of Universal Studio Group. All the episodes of The Real Housewives of Lagos S1-2 are available to binge on Showmax, including the dramatic reunions, while the new episodes of Season 3 land every Monday as a fast-follow from Africa Magic.

Join the conversation this season by following Showmax Nigeria on social media and using the hashtag #RHOLagos.

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