close
Women Times

Lifestyle

LifestyleFashionista

Grammy Winner Ciara Celebrates Lagos’ Glow-Up on Stylish City Tour

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

Grammy-winning singer Ciara Princess Wilson lit up the streets of Lagos this week, hailing the city’s remarkable transformation while embracing its rich fashion heritage. The global icon, known for hits like “Goodies” and “Level Up,” arrived for the 15th anniversary of Lagos Fashion Week and a guided cultural tour, turning heads in traditional Adire attire that blended her superstar flair with Nigerian artistry.

Accompanied by Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Ciara kicked off her visit with a warm welcome that set the tone for an immersive adventure. The tour, organized in collaboration with Lagos Tourism, took her through the bustling heart of Africa’s most populous city, spotlighting its evolution from a chaotic urban hub to a polished beacon of progress. “I’m so happy to be here,” Ciara beamed in a viral video, her excitement palpable as she marveled at the changes since her last trip.

Gone are the days of dusty, cluttered roads that once defined her first impressions of Lagos, Ciara shared. “Now I see paved streets everywhere, it’s clean, it’s beautiful,” she gushed, crediting local efforts for the visible upgrades in infrastructure and cleanliness. Her words struck a chord with residents and fans alike, who flooded social media with praise for the government’s strides in urban renewal. One netizen quipped, “Finally, a global star sees the real glow-up!”

Dressed in a stunning Adire ensemble, hand-dyed indigo fabric adorned with intricate Yoruba patterns, Ciara didn’t just tour; she honored.

The singer, who has long championed empowerment through style, used the outing to spotlight local designers. At the Onalaja Official showcase during Fashion Week, she paired up with influencer Chi-Chi in looks from the Nigerian label, seamlessly weaving her birthday vibes into the event’s creative pulse.

Ciara’s embrace of Adire went beyond aesthetics; it was a nod to sustainable fashion and cultural preservation. Adire, a time-honored craft from southwestern Nigeria, represents resilience and storytelling through textile. By donning the fabric, Ciara amplified its global appeal, drawing attention to artisans who keep the tradition alive amid modern trends. “Lagos is Africa’s creative capital,” she declared, urging visitors to dive into its art, rhythm, and unfiltered energy.

Ciara’s visit underscores Lagos’ magnetic pull on international icons, from Cardi B’s 2019 escapades to Stefflon Don’s frequent jaunts. For a city often stereotyped, her endorsement feels like a love letter, inviting the world to witness its heartbeat.

read more
NewsSport

Nigerian Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie Nominated for Prestigious 2025 IFFHS Women’s World Best Goalkeeper Award

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

Super Falcons star Chiamaka Nnadozie has been shortlisted for the 2025 International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) Women’s World Best Goalkeeper award, placing her among an elite group of ten global nominees.

The 24-year-old Nigerian sensation, who currently plies her trade for Brighton & Hove Albion in England’s Women’s Super League, earned the nomination through a string of breathtaking performances that have solidified her status as one of the world’s premier shot-stoppers. If victorious, Nnadozie would etch her name in history as the first African woman to claim the honor, following in the footsteps of previous winners like Spain’s Sandra Paños and Germany’s Almuth Schult.

The IFFHS, founded in 1987, honors excellence in football through votes from journalists and analysts across more than 120 countries. The 2025 winners, including rankings for goalkeepers, players, referees, and coaches, will be unveiled in December. Nnadozie joins a formidable shortlist featuring the likes of Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC), Spain’s Cata Coll (Barcelona), England’s Hannah Hampton (Chelsea), and Chile’s Christiane Endler (Lyon).

This nod caps a banner year for Nnadozie, whose heroics have lit up both club and international stages. At club level, she was instrumental in Paris FC’s Coupe de France Féminine triumph in June, where she heroically saved two penalties in the final against Paris Saint-Germain. Her move to Brighton in July marked a historic transfer, making her the first Nigerian player to join the Seagulls and bolstering their ambitions in the WSL. There, she’s already earning accolades, including a recent nomination for the Barclays WSL Save of the Month for October after a stunning stop on a Tottenham free-kick.

Internationally, Nnadozie’s brilliance shone brightest at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, where she backstopped Nigeria to a record-extending 10th title. Keeping multiple clean sheets en route to victory, she was crowned Best Goalkeeper and earned a spot in the Tournament Team of the Tournament. Earlier, she made waves at the 2024 Paris Olympics and became the first Nigerian and African nominee for the Women’s Yashin Trophy at the 2025 Ballon d’Or, finishing an impressive fourth.

Nnadozie’s journey from the Nigerian Women’s Premier League with Rivers Angels, where she won the title in 2019 and multiple cups, to Europe’s elite circuits underscores her rapid ascent. She debuted for the Super Falcons in 2018 against France and has since amassed 55 caps, including becoming the youngest goalkeeper to record a World Cup clean sheet at 19 during the 2019 tournament against South Korea.

As she eyes a potential third straight CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, Nnadozie’s nomination serves as a beacon for aspiring African talents. “It’s an honor to be recognized alongside the best,” she said in a recent interview. “But my focus remains on the team, whether at Brighton or with the Super Falcons. This is just fuel for more.”

Fans and pundits alike are buzzing with anticipation. Should Nnadozie lift the IFFHS trophy, it would not only validate her individual prowess but also highlight the growing global impact of African women’s football.

read more
SportNews

Ogun Governor Abiodun Boosts Super Falcons with ₦50m Incentive Ahead of Crucial Benin Clash in Abeokuta

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has announced a generous ₦50 million incentive package for the Super Falcons, just days before their crucial return-leg qualifier against the Benin Republic in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The gesture, revealed on the eve of the match, is aimed at firing up the nine-time African champions as they seek to seal qualification at the MKO Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta.

The Super Falcons, fresh off a commanding 2-0 victory in the first leg played in Lomé, Togo, on Friday, returned to Nigerian soil over the weekend and wasted no time ramping up preparations at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena. Midfielder Deborah Abiodun was the standout performer in the away win, delivering two pinpoint assists that set up strikes from Chinwendu Ihezuo in the 24th minute and Esther Okoronkwo just before halftime. Her creative flair not only handed Nigeria a two-goal cushion but also showed the team’s evolving style under head coach Justine Madugu.

Governor Abiodun’s financial boost has been hailed as a timely morale lifter, especially as the Falcons defend their WAFCON title and eye a spot in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. “This is more than money; it’s a testament to our commitment to nurturing the stars who make Nigeria proud on the global stage,” Abiodun said in a statement released by his office. The package is intended to reward the players’ dedication and fuel their drive for another triumphant campaign.

Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi, Chairman of the Ogun State Football Association and a Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Executive Board Member, was quick to applaud the governor’s initiative. “On behalf of the Ogun State Football Association, we say a big thank you to the Governor,” Majekodunmi declared. “This demonstrates His Excellency’s passion for sports development. I urge residents and football lovers across Nigeria to fill the MKO Abiola Stadium tomorrow and roar the Super Falcons to victory. Come out and support our champions!”

Midfielder Deborah Abiodun urged fans during a pre-match training session on Sunday to pack the stands. “We’re eager to reward you with another strong performance,” she said. “Benin is a capable side, and we’re not underestimating them despite our lead. Your support will make all the difference.” Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who joined camp earlier in the week alongside stars like Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, and Asisat Oshoala, is expected to lead the midfield charge, with forwards Ihezuo, Okoronkwo, and Folashade Ijamilusi primed for more goals.

Coach Madugu, speaking ahead of Tuesday’s 4 p.m. kickoff, emphasized a no-nonsense approach. “We take nothing for granted,” he warned. “The Beninoise will come fighting, but we’re ready to deliver a clinical performance and secure qualification. Goals are promised – we’re gunning for them to put this tie to bed.” Madugu’s squad boasts depth, with potential cameos from six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala adding firepower if needed.

On the other side, Benin’s coach expressed guarded optimism, noting their improved understanding of the Falcons after the first-leg defeat. “We know them better now,” he said, hinting at tactical tweaks to exploit any complacency.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Madagascar’s Dominique Rosa Hanjavola as center referee, assisted by Zimbabwe’s Claris Simango and Madagascar’s Hasimbola Rasoloniaina, with Grace Gimo of Zimbabwe as the fourth official. With a passionate home crowd and the governor’s backing, the stage is set for the Super Falcons to soar once more, extending their legacy as Africa’s queens of the pitch.

Tickets for the match are available at the MKO Abiola Stadium box office, with gates opening at 2 p.m. Football fans in Ogun and beyond are encouraged to turn out in force, turning Abeokuta into a cauldron of green-white-green fervor.

read more
Fashionista

DOS Marks 15 Years of Timeless Elegance with an Intimate Legacy Dinner

by Women Times on

For DOS, the Legacy Dinner was a beautiful reflection of fifteen years of creativity, style, sisterhood, and storytelling through fashion.

Hosted in the intimate warmth of the DOS Lekki store, located at 55a Akintunde Adeyemi Drive, Lekki, the womenswear brand founded by Debola Obanikoro, the evening gathered fashionistas, Influencers, loyal clients, and women who have, in one way or another, been part of the brand’s remarkable journey.

From Elizabeth Elohor to Diana Eneje, Style Connoisseur, Ify Okoye, Ifeoma Odogwu, Chika Uwazie, Onyeka Michael Agwu, and more gracefully hosted by Ozinna Anumudu, the event was filled with laughter, connection, and shared pride in a brand that has quietly defined Nigerian fashion for over a decade.

From the warm candlelight to the beautifully dressed tables adorned with florals, every detail told a story of grace and craftsmanship. Guests were treated to a five-course culinary experience by Tash Bistro, perfectly curated to complement the evening’s mood.

Between courses, stories and laughter flowed easily as guests reminisced about the pieces they’ve worn and the moments that made DOS more than a brand, a shared experience of womanhood and timeless pieces.

It wasn’t just a dinner, it was a toast to 15 years of vision, craft, and community.

The highlight of the evening came when Debola Obanikoro, founder and creative director of DOS, shared a few heartfelt words about the brand’s 15-year journey, from its modest beginnings to becoming a household name in Nigerian fashion, and now expanding its story to London.

Her message was simple yet powerful:

“DOS has always been about more than clothes; it’s about women, identity, and storytelling”.

Every woman in the room, from loyal clients to friends of the brand, represented a piece of that legacy.

Staying relevant in fashion for 15 years takes more than beautiful designs, it takes consistency, purpose, and resilience. DOS has stayed true to its DNA through changing trends and evolving markets, continuing to tell stories of strength, femininity and understated confidence.

Through the years, DOS has built a community, not just of customers, but of women who see themselves reflected in every collection, every silhouette, and every detail.

As the evening drew to a close, guests clinked glasses to the next chapter, *The DOS Lekki Store Launch, on Sunday, 26 October,* at 55A Akintunde Adeyemi Drive, Lekki, a shopping experience that promises to usher in a new era for the brand. One story, one woman, one design at a time.

Fifteen years on, DOS remains a symbol of grace, growth, and grit, proof that true legacy isn’t just built, it’s worn.

read more
NewsHealth

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.”

 

read more
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.

read more
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.

 

read more
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.

read more
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.

read more
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.”

 

—
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

read more
1 … 5 6 7 8 9 … 26
Page 7 of 26