close
Women Times

Lifestyle

NewsSport

Five Iranian Women Footballers Granted Asylum in Australia, Says Donald Trump

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

In a development amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, five members of Iran’s national women’s football team have reportedly been granted asylum in Australia, according to statements from US President Donald Trump.

The players, part of the Iranian squad competing in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup hosted in Australia, left their team hotel and sought protection following their elimination from the tournament. Sources indicate the athletes are now in a safe house under Australian Federal Police protection, fearing severe repercussions upon return to Iran.

The incident gained international attention after several players remained silent during Iran’s national anthem before a match, an act interpreted as protest amid heightened tensions from the US-Israel war with Iran. Iranian state media labeled the team “wartime traitors,” raising alarms over potential persecution, arbitrary detention, or worse if they returned home.

President Trump weighed in forcefully on Truth Social, initially warning that Australia would be making “a terrible humanitarian mistake” by forcing the players back, where they “will most likely be killed.” He urged Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to grant asylum, offering: “The US will take them if you won’t.”

In a follow-up post, Trump announced he had spoken with Albanese, stating the Australian leader was “on it” and that “five have already been taken care of, and the rest are on their way.” Trump praised the handling of the “delicate situation.”

The five players reportedly include Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Ghanbari, Zahra Sarbali, Atefeh Ramazanzadeh, and Mona Hamoudi, with some linked to support from figures like Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last shah, who confirmed their alignment with opposition movements.

Australia’s government has remained cautious, with officials citing privacy reasons for not commenting on individual cases. Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Matt Thistlethwaite emphasized no “preferential treatment” or “special circumstances” apply, though human rights groups and Iranian-Australian communities have urged protection for those at risk.

Protests erupted outside the team’s accommodations, with supporters chanting “save our girls” and surrounding buses in calls for the players to stay.

While details of the asylum grants remain unconfirmed by official Australian channels, Trump’s announcements have amplified global scrutiny on the players’ fate.

read more
NewsHealth

‎ ‎𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗰𝗵𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝘄𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 – 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝘆

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

recent study provides new insights into why chronic pain often lasts longer in women than in men, pointing to biological differences in the immune system rather than psychological factors.

The research which was published on February 20, 2026, in the journal Science Immunology, the research, titled “Monocyte-derived IL-10 drives sex differences in pain duration” was led by Geoffroy Laumet, an associate professor of physiology at Michigan State University, along with first author Jaewon Sim and colleagues.

The study reveals that a specific subset of immune cells called monocytes plays a key role in resolving pain by releasing an anti-inflammatory molecule known as IL-10 (interleukin-10). These IL-10-producing monocytes help “switch off” pain signals by communicating with sensory neurons. In males, these cells are more active, leading to faster pain resolution. This heightened activity is driven by higher levels of male sex hormones, particularly testosterone.

In contrast, females have less active IL-10-producing monocytes, resulting in delayed recovery and more persistent pain. The researchers observed this pattern consistently in mouse models of inflammatory pain  and in human data from patients recovering from traumatic injuries, where men resolved pain more quickly and showed higher circulating levels of these monocytes and IL-10.

Experiments further confirmed the hormonal link: Blocking male sex hormones in mice reduced the activity of these pain-resolving monocytes, while treatments that boosted them (such as the lipid mediator resolvin D1) accelerated pain relief in both sexes.

For years, women have reported more frequent, severe, and prolonged chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia, migraines, and musculoskeletal issues, yet their experiences were sometimes dismissed. This study validates those reports with evidence of a clear biological mechanism, shifting focus from pain initiation to why it persists.

The findings could pave the way for targeted, non-opioid therapies that enhance pain resolution, especially for women. As Laumet noted in related coverage, the difference lies in the immune system’s ability to shut down pain signals, not in perception alone.

This research bares the importance of considering sex differences in pain management and medical research to develop more equitable treatments.

read more
NewsHealthPolitics

Oby Ezekwesili Shows Up at National Assembly Protest, Says Senate’s Trying to Make Election Rigging Easier

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili was right there with the protesters today outside the National Assembly gates in Abuja, making it clear she’s not letting this slide. The crowd has been out for days now, pushing hard for the Electoral Act Amendment Bill to lock in mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results, no ifs, no buts.

Ezekwesili, who’s never one to mince words, told journalists straight up that the Senate is pushing an “ambiguous” clause that basically hands INEC the power to decide when or if results get uploaded electronically. She said: “If the Senate gets away with a provision that is ambiguous, that gives power of discretion to determine the ifs and the buts, instead of making the clause mandatory, that every vote must count in this country, then we are weakening the core principle of electoral transparency.”

She’s calling it what a lot of people are thinking: this could open the door wide for manipulation before 2027. The only way votes actually count, she stressed, is if transmission is compulsory and happens in real time from every polling unit straight to the IReV portal.

She wasn’t alone, former Sports Minister Solomon Dalung and activist Omoyele Sowore were also there, along with groups like Situation Room, ActionAid, and labour folks under the Movement for Credible Elections. The protesters want the House version of the bill to win out in the end, because it reportedly keeps e-transmission mandatory, while the Senate seems ready to water it down or make it optional.

This comes right after the Senate already cut the time for INEC to publish election notices and rejected mandatory real-time uploads earlier this month. People are calling it everything from a “coup against democracy” to straight-up “programming rigging into law.”

Ezekwesili put it bluntly: the fight is about whether our votes will count or not. With 2027 not far off, the pressure’s on the lawmakers to sort this out without killing the transparency most Nigerians are demanding.

read more
NewsSport

‎ ‎𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗮𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗹𝘆 ‎ ‎

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nigeria’s Super Falcons are gearing up for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco with a pair of high-stakes friendly matches against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that the two sides will clash in a double-header in Yaoundé, Cameroon’s capital. The first encounter is scheduled for Saturday, February 28, 2026, followed by the second on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

These friendlies fall within the FIFA Women’s International Window (February 24 – March 7, 2026), providing the Super Falcons—reigning WAFCON champions and 10-time winners, an ideal opportunity to sharpen their tactics, test squad depth, and build momentum ahead of the continental showpiece.

The matches revive a classic African women’s football rivalry. The Super Falcons previously defeated Cameroon 2-0 in a pre-tournament friendly before last year’s WAFCON (also in Morocco), underscoring Nigeria’s dominance in recent head-to-heads.

NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi emphasized the federation’s commitment to thorough preparation, stating that these games are crucial for ensuring the team is in top form to defend their title.

 

read more
Entertainment

Nkan Unveils ‘California Love’: A Spiritual Journey from Lagos to the Golden State

by Women Times on

Following the critical success of her 2025 EP Surulere, the “Golden Voice of Africa,” Nkan, is set to capture hearts once again this February with the release of her latest single, “California Love.” Arriving just in time for the season of love, the track promises to be a masterclass in Nkan’s signature “Kosmopolitan” sound—a seamless, sophisticated blend of Afrobeats, Jazz, and Highlife.

“California Love” departs from the high-energy percussion of her previous hits like “Pepepe,” opting instead for a lush, atmospheric production that highlights Nkan’s powerhouse vocals. The single explores the nuances of long-distance affection and the sun-drenched nostalgia of a romance sparked in the Golden State. It serves as a bridge between her Nigerian roots and her musical years spent in the United States, creating a sonic experience that is both deeply personal and globally accessible.

Speaking on the inspiration behind the track, Nkan shares: “Music is a vessel for truth and emotion. With ‘California Love,’ I wanted to capture that specific warmth you feel when love transcends distance. It’s about the memories that keep us glowing, no matter where we are in the world.”

She further explains the divine timing behind the track: “California Love is a very personal and spiritual story for me. I’m deeply spiritually inclined, and one thing I’ve learned on my journey is to constantly have conversations with God for direction. A few weeks before I relocated to the United States, I fell very ill. My father in the Lord jokingly said I was having “travel fever.” Around that same time, the song California Love by Tupac kept playing repeatedly in my head. I would wake up singing it, even though I hadn’t yet decided which state I was moving to.

Fast forward to my flight to the U.S. — I was asleep on the plane, and just before the arrival announcement, I heard California Love again in my spirit. I woke up smiling and said, “Daddy, you are so hilarious,” referring to God. Two months after settling in Oakland, love found me and that experience became the story behind California Love. Now, releasing it during Valentine’s season feels natural because California Love is a love letter: to Oakland, to distance, to destiny, and to love that crosses cultures” she proudly concluded.

The song’s arrival in February 2026 reinforces Nkan’s reputation as a “purpose-driven” artist, dedicated to creating melodies that evoke genuine connection and emotional depth.

Since her return to the spotlight, Nkan has been recognized as a “must-watch” artist by industry tastemakers, lauded for her ability to integrate traditional African rhythms with contemporary soul.

“California Love” is expected to further solidify her position on the global stage, following her inclusion in several “Artists to Watch in 2026” lists.

The single’s rich arrangement and evocative lyrics are designed to resonate with “go-getters” and romantics alike.

Comparing this release to her previous work, Nkan postulated: “Interestingly, California Love was composed in 2017, but the emotions tied to the story remain just as real today. There’s a particular line in the song that takes me to another realm emotionally, it often brings me to tears when I hear myself sing it. That emotional space was very different from Surulere. While Surulere carries its own depth and message, California Love comes from a softer, more vulnerable place rooted in personal experience and intimacy” she emphasised.

The single will be available on all major digital streaming platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube, starting mid-February. Fans can also look forward to a visually stunning lyric video that captures the vibrant, sun-soaked aesthetic of the track’s namesake.

As Nkan continues her “reinvention era,” “California Love” stands as a testament to her growth as a songwriter and her unwavering commitment to the “Golden Voice” legacy.

About Nkan:

Nkan is a Nigerian-born singer-songwriter, celebrated for her “Kosmopolitan” genre—a fusion of Afrobeat, Jazz, and Highlife. She is also a creative entrepreneur, actor and Thespian, She is one of the leading Partners of TheatreMania Africa Festival (TAF).

Discovered for her exceptional vocal range in the early 2000s and dubbed the “Golden Voice of Africa,” she has performed at prestigious venues across the U.S. and West Africa. After a hiatus, she returned to the music scene with a string of successful singles and the 2025 EP Surulere, continuing her mission to touch lives through soulful, message-driven art.

read more
NewsEntertainment

𝗜’𝘃𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝗹𝗲𝗽𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗲𝘀 – 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗞𝗲𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘆 ‎

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nollywood actress Kemisola Apesin, popularly known as Kemity, has firmly denied allegations that she exchanged sexual favours for movie roles in the Yoruba film industry.

In a recent statement shared on social media, the actress addressed circulating rumours head-on, emphasizing that her success comes from hard work, talent, and integrity rather than any form of compromise.

“I have never used my body to collect a movie role. I have never slept with anyone to get featured in any film. I have never exchanged sex for opportunity,” Kemity declared. She stressed, “My name is clean – Ariyo Oluwakemisola Apesin. No one and I mean no one can ever come out boldly to say I used my body to collect anything from him.”

Reflecting on her journey, Kemity revealed she entered the industry with prior businesses, including two wine shops, and even took on crew roles early on to manage costs during productions. “Before I even met my boss, I already had two wine shops where I was selling wine,” she noted, adding that her rise has been built on consistency and self-reliance rather than shortcuts.

The denial comes amidst ongoing discussions in Nollywood about the so-called “sex-for-roles” culture, with several actors and actresses speaking out on the issue in recent times.

Kemity’s bold response has garnered reactions across social media, with supporters praising her for defending her reputation and highlighting the importance of merit in the entertainment industry.

The actress, known for her roles in Yoruba films, continues to build her career through dedication to her craft.

read more
SportNews

Falconets Coach Aduku Unveils 26-Player Squad for Crucial Senegal Clash in 2026 U-20 World Cup Qualifiers

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, are intensifying preparations for their crucial third-round qualifiers against Senegal in the race to qualify for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.

Head coach Moses Aduku has announced a 26-player squad, primarily drawn from the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), to face the Lionesses de Téranga in this two-legged tie. The squad features standout talents such as Bayelsa Queens forward Janet Akekoromowei, Nasarawa Amazons midfielder Joy Igbokwe, and several players promoted from the national U-17 setup, including Shakirat Abidemi Moshood.

Coach Aduku expressed satisfaction with the team’s commitment and progress in camp, emphasizing the need for a strong performance in the home leg to build momentum ahead of the away fixture.

The first leg is scheduled for Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta . Kick-off is set for 16:00 local time. The return leg will take place on Saturday, February 14, 2026, in Dakar, Senegal, at the Stade Lat-Dior.

The winner of this tie will advance to the final round of African qualifiers, with only the top teams securing spots at the global finals in Poland.

Full Squad List as announced:

Goalkeepers:

Uzoma Christiana Ijeoma (Edo Queens)

Opara Onyinyechi Jacklin (Delta Queens)

Jane Bubemi Ijirigho (Nasarawa Amazons)

Defenders:

Ezekwugo Chiamaka Esther (Bayelsa Queens)

Sandra John Nwibe (Rivers Angels)

Yusuf Mistura Motunrayo (FC Robo Queens)

Abdulwahab Farida Opeyemi (Nasarawa Amazons)

Ohaegbulem Oluchi (Nasarawa Amazons)

Ayoade Hannah Ibrahim (Remo Stars Ladies)

Adeshina Tumininu Fatimoh (Edo Queens)

Adegbemile Rebecca (Edo Queens)

Iheoma Chinyere (Bayelsa Queens)

Midfielders:

Afolabi Taiwo Tewogbola

Otubo Patience (Rivers Angels)

Igbokwe Joy (Nasarawa Amazons)

Nkwocha Favour Chiamaka (FC Robo Queens)

Kafayat Oluwatosin Mafisere (Edo Queens)

The Falconets, two-time silver medalists at the U-20 World Cup, remain confident under Aduku’s guidance as they aim to overcome Senegal and keep their qualification dreams alive.

read more
NewsEntertainment

Davido Opens Up: What Chioma Told Him When He Wanted to Skip the After-Party Following Grammy Snub

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nigerian Superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has opened up about the heartfelt words of encouragement from his wife, Chioma Rowland Adeleke, following his loss at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards on February 1, 2026.

Davido was nominated in the Best African Music Performance category for his track “With You” (featuring Omah Lay), from his album 5IVE. The category featured strong Nigerian contenders, including Burna Boy (“Love”), Ayra Starr and Wizkid (“Gimme Dat”), but the award ultimately went to South African artist Tyla for “Push 2 Start”. This marked Davido’s second Grammy nomination without a win, continuing his pursuit of the prestigious accolade.

In a candid Instagram post shared shortly after the ceremony, Davido revealed his initial disappointment. He recounted telling Chioma, “Baby listen, we lost again, let’s not go!” — referring to skipping the after-party events. Chioma’s response shifted his perspective and highlighted her supportive role:

“She said, ‘Be humble in victory and gracious in defeat. We’re outside.’”

Davido accompanied the quote with photos of the couple at the Grammys and post-event outings, captioning it with affection: “My ride or die. She dey my back, active geng.” Chioma reinforced her support in her own post, writing, “You already know that you’re the perfect one, @davido.”

The exchange quickly went viral, with fans praising Chioma’s wisdom and grace. Many described her as Davido’s emotional anchor, turning a moment of setback into one of resilience and unity. Davido also shared earlier messages of faith, posting photos with the caption “Oluwa Dey my side” (God is on my side), emphasizing gratitude despite the outcome.

The 2026 Grammys saw no Nigerian wins in key categories, causing broader discussions about African representation. However, Davido’s transparency and Chioma’s uplifting words have been celebrated as a reminder that personal strength and relationships often outweigh individual awards.

This moment underscores the couple’s strong bond, with Chioma consistently standing by Davido through career highs and lows. As one fan put it online: “Behind every successful man is a Chioma.”

read more
NewsEntertainment

Women need to live alone before marriage’– Nollywood Actress Teniola Aladese ‎ ‎ ‎

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nollywood actress and producer Teniola Aladese has sparked widespread discussion with her candid advice that many women should experience living independently before entering marriage, arguing it helps build self-awareness, set boundaries, and avoid regrets in relationships.

In a recent episode of the That’s What She Said vodcast/podcast, the actress shared her perspective on the common cultural pattern in Nigeria where women transition directly from their parents’ home to their husband’s without an interim phase of solo living. She emphasized that this lack of independence often leads to surprises and challenges once married.

“A lot of women just go from their family’s houses to their husband’s house,” Aladese stated. “But they don’t particularly know what they like, they don’t know what kind of trait their husband-to-be has. So they are shocked when they enter into the home and they see some mannerisms that they haven’t experienced before.”

She continued: “But I feel like when you live alone before getting married, you get to know yourself, you get to know what you like, you get to know the nonsense you would take and the nonsense you would not take. But when you just enter into marriage without any experience of living on your own, that is when everything starts shocking you and regrets creep in.”

The 32-year-old actress, born on September 18, 1993, in Lagos State (the sixth of six children), studied Mass Communication at Covenant University, Ota. She has built a multifaceted career in Nollywood, starting behind the scenes as a production coordinator and line producer on projects like Africa Magic Original Films and Jemeji (where she also acted as Akweyon). She gained prominence for her role as the villainous Folashade “FK” Kuku in the TV series Unbroken, and has appeared in films and series such as Fade, Her, Déjà Vu, Lara of Lagos, and Perfectly Flawed. Aladese has also worked as a casting director and consultant.

Her comments, shared widely across social media platforms including Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and blogs have ignited debates online. Many fans and commentators praised her for promoting self-discovery and independence, while others weighed in on cultural norms around marriage and gender roles in Nigerian society.

Aladese’s statement aligns with growing conversations in entertainment circles about personal growth, mental preparedness for marriage, and challenging traditional expectations. As one of Nollywood’s rising talents known for her thoughtful insights both on and off screen, her views continue to resonate with audiences navigating modern relationships.

 

read more
EntertainmentNewsUncategorized

Yeni Kuti Declares ‘Wizkid Is My Friend’ Amid Escalating Feud with Seun Kuti

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Yeni Kuti, the eldest daughter of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has broken her silence on the heated online feud between her brother, Seun Kuti, and Grammy-winning superstar Wizkid, affectionately calling the singer her “padi” (friend) and expressing her deep affection for him despite the controversy.

The dispute erupted earlier this week when Seun Kuti accused Wizkid’s fanbase (known as Wizkid FC) of disrespecting their late father’s legacy by comparing Wizkid favorably to Fela or claiming superiority in influence. The exchange quickly escalated into personal insults on social media, with both artists trading barbs and drawing in fans, celebrities, and public figures.

Speaking on TVC’s morning show Your View on Thursday, Yeni Kuti emphasized her longstanding personal connection to Wizkid, recalling his early days in the music scene. “I love Wizkid a lot. You know, Wizkid is my padi now,” she said. “When two giants fight, it’s the grass that suffers. I refuse to enter some of the insults that they are hauling because I love Wizkid a lot. Wizkid is my padi now and my so friend. We have come a long way together. I remember when we started that shrine, he was a backup singer at the shrine during Felabration.”

Yeni expressed disappointment that the situation spiraled, particularly noting that Wizkid could have intervened earlier to curb escalating insults directed at Fela. “All the insults people have been hurling towards Fela, I wish he (Wizkid) had put a stop to it, but he didn’t,” she added. She also highlighted the broader impact, warning that the public spat reflects poorly on Nigeria rather than just the Kuti family. “You’re dirtying Nigeria, not Fela’s family,” she stated, urging peace and unity, especially with Fela’s legacy set to be celebrated at the upcoming Grammy Awards.

Yeni stressed her refusal to take sides aggressively, prioritizing her friendship with Wizkid and the shared history between him and the Kuti family through events like Felabration at the New Afrika Shrine. Her comments have caused mixed reactions online, with some praising her maturity and calls for peace, while others debate the origins of the conflict and loyalty to Fela’s heritage.

The feud continues to generate buzz across Nigerian entertainment circles, highlighting tensions around legacy, generational shifts in Afrobeat/Afropop, and fan-driven comparisons. Neither Wizkid nor Seun Kuti has publicly responded directly to Yeni’s statements as of press time.

 

read more
1 2 3 4 5 6 … 26
Page 4 of 26