Opportunities - Women Times

Abuja Teen Bala Khaira Ojima Wins 2026 UBA National Essay Competition, Takes Home ₦15m Scholarship

by Women Times on November 13, 2026

She was announced at the grand finale and awards ceremony held on Tuesday at UBA House, Marina, Lagos. The annual competition, organised by United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc through the UBA Foundation for senior secondary school students, is free to enter and now in its 16th year.

Ojima, an SS3 science student, won a ₦15 million scholarship to study at any university in Africa, along with a trophy, a laptop and a certificate of merit. Female students dominated the contest, taking the first five positions and seven other places among the 20 finalists.

The rest of the top five were:

Second: Unwanabasi Otobong Udom (Topfaith International Secondary School, Akwa Ibom), ₦10 million scholarship

Third: Flourish Chibunumona Udamzi (University of Port Harcourt Women Association International Secondary School), ₦7.5 million scholarship

Fourth: Godsfavour Ezekiel Udo (Federal Government Girls’ College, Ikot Obio Itong, Akwa Ibom), ₦5 million scholarship

Fifth: Uchenna Olivia Anyanwu (Coral Impacts International School, Abuja), ₦3.5 million scholarship

Each of the top five also received a laptop and a certificate of merit. This is the first year the fourth- and fifth-place finishers have received scholarships, while the other 15 finalists got cash prizes and laptops. UBA also raised the prize pool from the previous ₦10 million, ₦5 million and ₦3.5 million for the top three.

Ojima, who attended with her father, said she won on her first attempt after many late nights of research and writing on this year’s topic: “Examine how poverty and other social vices contribute to the prevalence of child marriage in Nigeria.” She thanked the UBA Foundation, saying the contest broadened her understanding of national issues and showed her that hard work and critical thinking pay off.

UBA Group Managing Director/CEO Oliver Alawuba said the competition is meant to promote education, revive reading culture and encourage healthy rivalry among secondary school students. “The future of the world is in Africa, and that can only be achieved by preparing our youth well for what lies ahead,” he said. He added that the higher rewards are meant to cushion the effect of high inflation across Africa, that the competition now runs in at least seven other African countries where UBA operates, including Ghana and Senegal, and that the bank will keep investing in young Africans pursuing university education on the continent.

UBA Foundation Managing Director/CEO Bola Atta congratulated the winners and urged other participants not to give up on their dreams. She said the competition has noticeably improved students’ writing, confidence, exposure, critical thinking and social awareness.

Judge Prof. Ini Uko of the University of Uyo struck a more cautionary note. While the winning entries were highly competitive, she said, many submissions overall were poor, with some students writing out of context or misusing artificial intelligence tools. She warned that this suggests many students are too distracted by social media at the expense of their studies.

Entrepreneurship Empowerment

Over 10,000 Women Gather in Lagos as FinTribe Finance Fair 2026 Champions Wealth, Ownership

by Women Times on November 6, 2026

By Prosper Mene

More than 10,000 women filled the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Saturday, October 31, 2026, for the fourth edition of the FinTribe Finance Fair — a fast-growing movement helping African women move from financial awareness to wealth creation and ownership.

Themed “I CAN” and powered by returning lead sponsor, Sycamore, the one-day fair brought together financial experts, business leaders, entrepreneurs and celebrities including Funke Akindele, Omoni Oboli, BamBam, Sola Adesakin and Olufemi Shobanjo for practical financial education, honest conversations and life-changing opportunities.

For FinTribe founder, Jennifer Awirigwe, popularly known as Financial Jennifer, the fair is about more than talks, it is about action.

“Financial education is important, but knowledge must eventually become action. We want women to leave Finance Fair knowing that they can save, invest, grow their income, build businesses and take ownership of their financial future,” Awirigwe said.

A Movement Beyond One Day

FinTribe has grown into a global community with a presence in 43 countries. The organisation says it has reached over 20,000 women through financial education, trained more than 5,000 women in capital market investing, and helped members collectively save and invest millions of dollars.

Through its Wealth Builders Academy, savings and investment community, real estate initiatives and the newly launched FinTribe App, the organisation continues to equip women with the tools to build healthier money habits, develop investment confidence and work towards long-term financial independence.

Voices That Inspired the Room

Award-winning filmmaker, *Omoni Oboli, urged women to chase their ambitions without neglecting their wellbeing, to take things one step at a time, prioritise rest, and ask for help when needed.

During the Financial Clinic, finance coach Sola Adesakin challenged women to be more intentional with money, stressing the need to earn, budget and turn income into real assets. She introduced her framework — the four forces of money: Earnings, Expenses, Engines and Encumbrances.

Olufemi Shobanjo of NGX Regulation Limited broke down how women can participate confidently in the capital market, while actress BamBam, marketing strategist Adetutu Laditan, and Mercy Agbeti, popularly known as Christian Money Woman, shared practical insights on building value, spotting opportunities and growing with purpose.

A Moment That Stole the Show

One of the most talked-about moments came during Funke Akindele’s session, when a medical doctor and founder of Raffia Fashion Africa presented the actress with a pair of handcrafted raffia earrings.

Akindele immediately wore them, danced, invited the entrepreneur on stage, embraced her, prayed for her and publicly endorsed her business.

The entrepreneur later revealed on Instagram that she had saved to buy a VIP ticket to the fair and had admired Akindele for years. What began as a simple audience interaction became a powerful reminder of how visibility, encouragement and one meaningful connection can change a growing business.

Beyond the stage, attendees connected with financial institutions, explored investment opportunities and joined hands-on financial education sessions.

The fair also featured empowerment giveaways including children’s investment portfolios, stock units, a plot of land, a Zanzibar trip and getaway experiences supported by partner organisations.

Sycamore returned as lead sponsor for the second consecutive year, alongside other partners committed to expanding women’s access to financial knowledge and opportunity.

From its first edition in 2023 to this year’s record gathering, the FinTribe Finance Fair has proven the power of bringing women together around a shared goal.

But for FinTribe, the real work continues after the event — through education, community, partnerships and practical wealth-building initiatives that help women across Africa move beyond talking about money, to making informed decisions, building assets and securing their financial futures.

To learn more about FinTribe, visit http://www.thefintribe.com or follow @thefintribe on Instagram.

Event

WiM Africa, Women in Advertising Bring Industry Leaders Together to Debate Nigeria’s Creative Future

by Women Times on November 4, 2026

By Adama Amahiri

Women in Marketing Africa (WiM Africa), in partnership with Women in Advertising (WIA-AAAN), has brought industry leaders together to examine Nigeria’s creative potential and the steps needed to translate it into measurable impact.

The Real Talk Debate was held in Lagos on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, under the theme, “From Creative Ambition to Impact: Is Nigeria Realising Its Creative Potential?”

The event brought together marketers, advertising professionals and creatives to discuss opportunities and challenges facing Nigeria’s creative industry.

In her opening remarks, WiM Africa CEO and convener Andrea Djan-Krofa said the debate series was created to encourage honest conversations about issues shaping the industry.

She said, “I wanted to create something a little different: a space where we could genuinely challenge the status quo, professional assumptions, and hear different perspectives. And importantly, a space where we don’t necessarily have to agree.”

Djan-Krofa said previous editions had been held in Accra, Johannesburg and Nairobi, where discussions focused on artificial intelligence, Gen Z and brand relationships, authenticity and representation.

Founder and Group CEO of X3M Ideas, Steve Babaeko, shared his experience of building the agency during a fireside conversation with Katharina Link, CEO of Pulse and Business Insider Africa.

Recalling his decision to establish the agency in 2012, Babaeko said he invested his savings in setting up an office but initially overlooked the financial demands of running the business.

“I had just quit my job. And I have started. People tell me how, oh, ‘you know, you’ve always said stuff, and you’ve always been prepared.’ I’m like, what most people don’t know was that I was scared shitless going out on my own. I was very scared about so many things. I just said, if we do it scared anyway,” he said.

He recalled that the agency struggled to meet its first payroll despite securing a contract with Etisalat, adding that the experience taught him the importance of managing cash flow.

Speaking about his determination to attend the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, Babaeko said he had long been concerned that no Nigerian or West African agency had won the recognition.

He said, “I took it so personally. So unbelievable. I just didn’t, how and why. It is like the World Cup, and a great footballing power like Holland has never won the World Cup.”

He eventually attended the festival after insisting on being included in the Nigerian delegation, despite leaving his former agency. He said the experience changed his approach to building X3M Ideas and competing internationally.

During the panel discussion, industry stakeholders also stressed the need for collaboration among brands, agencies, media organisations and regulators.

Brenda Nwagwu, president of the Media Independent Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MIPAN), said stakeholders needed to work together, adding that “the customer has to be at the centre.”

Senior Director of Marketing at Coca-Cola, Osato Evbuomwan, said agencies should understand the objectives behind campaigns before discussing budgets.

“One of the things I have tried to ask agencies to understand is, you are not working for me, you are working with me,” she said.

She also urged regulators to understand the complexities involved in building brands and creating content for consumers.

Director of Regulation, Monitoring and Enforcement at the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Emme Akande, said effective regulation required cooperation among advertisers, advertising agencies and media organisations.

“The regulator works with three sets of people, the advertiser who gives the brief, the advertising agency who creates content into commercials that we watch on TV, hear on radio, on digital, and the media house that broadcasts. The regulator needs collaboration needs the collaboration of all these people,” she said.

Akande added, “Whatever we do must conform to the laws of the land. If it does not, people will have issues.”

The panel was moderated by Oluwaseyi Layade, Chief Operating Officer of Leo Burnett Lagos, and featured Fiona Uwagwu, Managing Director, Special Projects and Chief Digital Officer at First Primus Group.

Tamara Ojeaga, Client and Commercial Growth Partner at Kantar, also delivered a presentation at the event.

The Lagos debate formed part of WiM Africa’s Real Talk Debate Series, which provides a platform for industry professionals to discuss issues shaping the future of marketing and advertising across Africa.

Event

Tanzanian Beauties Shine As Eve Godwin Finishes Runner-Up At Miss Africa 2026

by Women Times on November 2, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Tanzania’s growing presence on the international beauty pageant stage has received another boost after Eve Godwin emerged runner-up at Miss Africa International 2026 in Nigeria.

Godwin’s second-place finish was announced on Sunday, November 2, 2026, with celebrations held in her honour alongside her team led by Miss Grand Tanzania Director, Nazimizve Adam Mdolo.

Her achievement adds to what has been a remarkable year for Tanzanian beauty queens on the world stage.

It follows Jihan Dimack’s historic victory at Miss Grand International 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand on October 10, where she became the first Tanzanian and first African woman to win the crown. Dimack defeated contestants from across the world in a competition that promotes peace and humanitarian causes through swimsuit, evening gown and public-speaking rounds.

Also this year, Rosie Uisso made it to the Top 12 finalists at Miss Global International, a pageant that promotes cultural exchange and tourism under the motto “Uniting the World Through Beauty and Tourism.”

Similarly, Sharon Julius finished in third place at Miss Elite World in Egypt, an international pageant that celebrates beauty, presentation and modelling.

Miss Africa International is an African-focused competition that celebrates the continent’s cultural diversity, beauty and heritage, while providing young women a platform to showcase confidence, talent, leadership and advocacy initiatives.

The string of successes underscores Tanzania’s increasing visibility in international pageantry, with its representatives using the global platforms to showcase the country’s identity, culture and talent.

Empowerment

Lady Ambassador Judith Eyegho: Building a Legacy of Youth Empowerment and Regional Unity Through the 13th ECOWAS Youth Summit

by Women Times on October 30, 2026

By Prosper Mene

From drug abuse prevention to regional integration, the Founder of Shalom Vineyard Initiative is championing humanitarian service, purposeful leadership and a brighter future for young people across West Africa.

For Lady Ambassador Judith Edirin Eyegho (MIHSD), Founder and Chairperson of Shalom Vineyard Initiative, humanitarian service is more than a profession; it is a lifelong commitment rooted in compassion, faith and a determination to make society better for future generations.

Her dedication to youth development and regional cooperation reached another significant milestone on 28 October 2026, when she hosted the 13th ECOWAS Youth Summit 2026 at the University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos State. The summit, themed “The Role of ECOWAS Court of Justice to Curb Human Trafficking Across the Border,” focused attention on the importance of justice, human rights and regional cooperation in addressing human trafficking across West Africa.

Through this initiative, Eyegho continues to champion a future in which young people are informed, empowered and actively involved in building a peaceful, united and prosperous West African region.

Her story is one of perseverance, faith and purposeful service—a journey that began in a close-knit community and gradually evolved into a mission to influence the lives of young people beyond national borders.

A Childhood Shaped by Community and Compassion

Born as the sixth and last child of the late Sir Victor Olodi and the late Deaconess Victoria Amorighoye Eyegho, Judith grew up in Ekpan, in the former Bendel Western Region, in a community where collective responsibility, moral discipline and peaceful coexistence were strongly valued.

She fondly remembers an environment where community members participated actively in raising children, correcting wrongdoing and encouraging good conduct. These early experiences helped shape her understanding of the importance of shared responsibility and the role individuals can play in building a better society.

As a young girl, she participated in Junior Love, a community association that promoted morality, unity and love through songs and dance. The experience exposed her to the importance of peaceful coexistence and collective participation in community development.

In 1978, she moved to Lagos to continue her education. Her school years further strengthened her commitment to fairness and her intolerance for oppression. She recalls challenging behaviour she considered unjust, regardless of the ethnic or social background of those involved.

Although she initially aspired to study Law because of her passion for defending people’s rights, she eventually pursued higher education in other fields, building an academic foundation that would complement her humanitarian and development interests.

Academic and Professional Development

Lady Ambassador Eyegho’s educational journey reflects her commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

She obtained a Diploma in Data Processing/Computer Science from the University of Lagos in 1992, followed by a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Sociology from the University of Abuja in 2004.

Further advancing her academic qualifications, she earned a Master’s degree in Public and International Affairs from the University of Lagos in 2012.

In 2014, she obtained an Executive Professional Certificate in Humanitarian Studies and Social Development, affiliated with Abia State University. She also holds an Executive Diploma in International Law and Diplomacy, alongside a Certificate of Participation in International Volunteering (Level 2), awarded by Kingsland Foundation in partnership with La Plage Metaverse in 2022.

These academic and professional qualifications complement her interests in humanitarian service, international relations, diplomacy, social development and regional cooperation.

The Birth of Shalom Vineyard Initiative

For Eyegho, the establishment of Shalom Vineyard Initiative was closely connected to her faith and growing awareness of the challenges confronting young people.

One experience that influenced her advocacy involved a nephew who had become involved in cannabis use. Concerned about his wellbeing, she began educating him and others about the dangers of drug abuse and its possible consequences for their health and future. She recalls that her nephew eventually stopped using the substance.

The experience strengthened her conviction that young people need guidance, education and encouragement to make responsible decisions.

On 10 March 2005, Shalom Vineyard Initiative commenced its public advocacy activities with a drama presentation highlighting the dangers of drug abuse. The inaugural event was declared open by the late Chief Mrs Stella Obasanjo, former First Lady of Nigeria.

The organisation subsequently pursued drug abuse awareness and addiction-prevention education among students in Lagos State through its Youth and Passion programme, which Eyegho says ran for seven years.

These early activities laid the foundation for a broader development agenda that would eventually encompass youth empowerment, regional cooperation, peacebuilding, patriotism, academic excellence and good governance.

For Eyegho, the objective has always been to help young people understand the consequences of their choices while equipping them with the knowledge and values needed to build productive lives.

From Drug Abuse Advocacy to Regional Integration

In 2010, Eyegho’s vision expanded with the development of the ECOWAS Youth Summit, a platform designed to promote regional integration, diplomacy, patriotism, peacebuilding and academic excellence among young people.

The initiative emerged from her conviction that youths across West Africa needed a better understanding of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), its regional integration objectives, the free movement of citizens and the importance of cooperation among member states.

The summit’s first conference was organised around the theme, “The Need for Socio-Cultural Re-Orientation Amongst the Youths in West Africa Sub-Region.”

Since then, the initiative has provided students with opportunities to research topical issues, present their findings, improve their public-speaking abilities and engage with matters affecting their countries and the wider region.

Through its workshops, seminars and conferences, the initiative has also explored career development, agriculture, responsible citizenship and the dangers of drug abuse.

Eyegho believes these engagements help students develop confidence, discover new opportunities and appreciate their responsibilities as future leaders.

According to her, the summit offers young people a platform to express their ideas, showcase their creativity and participate in discussions that extend beyond the classroom.

Her ambition is to nurture a generation that understands both its national identity and its place within a wider West African community.

13th ECOWAS Youth Summit 2026: Confronting Human Trafficking Across Borders

The 13th edition of the ECOWAS Youth Summit, held on 28 October 2026, at the University of Lagos, Akoka, brought a pressing regional concern into focus: human trafficking across national borders.

The theme, “The Role of ECOWAS Court of Justice to Curb Human Trafficking Across the Border,” reflects the importance of examining regional legal institutions, human rights protections and cooperation among member states in addressing trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable people.

Human trafficking is a complex challenge that requires coordinated responses, public awareness, effective institutions and sustained collaboration across national boundaries.

By placing the subject at the centre of youth engagement, the summit reinforces the importance of educating young people about human dignity, justice and the mechanisms available for addressing human rights concerns.

For Eyegho, youth development must go beyond motivational speeches. Young people need opportunities to understand the legal and institutional structures that affect their lives and to participate meaningfully in discussions about solutions to societal problems.

The choice of theme also aligns with her longstanding commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and encouraging young people to become responsible citizens who can contribute to a safer and more just society.

Through the summit, she continues to promote the idea that an informed and engaged youth population is essential to the future of regional cooperation and sustainable development.

Overcoming Challenges and Expanding the Vision

Despite the progress made through its programmes, funding remains a significant challenge for Shalom Vineyard Initiative.

Eyegho explains that organising an annual summit involving students and other stakeholders requires substantial resources, particularly for venue hire, transportation, logistics and other operational expenses.

These financial constraints sometimes limit the number of participants the organisation can accommodate, even when interest in its activities is strong.

Nevertheless, she remains determined to sustain the initiative and expand its reach.

To complement the annual summit and support its broader objectives, Shalom Vineyard Initiative introduced ECOWAS Delight International Magazine, a publication intended to promote regional cooperation, diplomacy, cultural diversity, tourism and investment opportunities across West Africa.

The magazine is also intended to strengthen the initiative’s visibility and support its efforts to engage a wider audience.

Eyegho hopes to establish stronger partnerships with ECOWAS member-state governments, private-sector organisations and educational institutions to enable the summit to reach more young people throughout the region.

Her long-term ambition is to see the programme hosted collaboratively across all 15 ECOWAS member states, creating broader opportunities for youth participation, knowledge-sharing and regional engagement.

For her, achieving this vision requires a collective commitment from governments, institutions and individuals who recognise the importance of investing in the next generation.

A Strong Message to West African Youths

Beyond organising conferences and educational programmes, Eyegho is deeply concerned about the challenges facing young people, particularly economic hardship and the exploitation of youths for political purposes.

She believes that some young people are drawn into political thuggery and other harmful activities because of limited economic opportunities and the absence of meaningful support.

Her message is that young people must protect their integrity, reject violence and refuse to sacrifice their future for the temporary interests of others.

She encourages them to pursue education, acquire practical skills, embrace meaningful work and participate responsibly in governance and community development.

Eyegho also stresses that patriotism should be demonstrated through constructive contributions to society rather than blind loyalty to individuals.

She believes that the countries of West Africa share interconnected challenges, including insecurity, hunger, inadequate housing and limited opportunities, which require collective responses.

Her vision is for young people to become active participants in addressing these problems and to recognise that regional unity can create opportunities for stronger economic cooperation and sustainable development.

She equally advocates a renewed culture of volunteerism, recalling how her early experiences in youth organisations helped instil compassion, discipline and a willingness to serve others.

In her view, families, schools, community organisations and governments all have important roles to play in encouraging young people to embrace humanitarian service and civic responsibility.

The Legacy of a Woman Driven by Purpose

For Lady Ambassador Judith Edirin Eyegho, the ultimate measure of success is not personal recognition but the positive difference her work makes in people’s lives.

She hopes to be remembered as a woman who loved West Africa and created opportunities for youth empowerment, regional integration, purposeful leadership and good governance.

Her journey from community-based youth activities to founding Shalom Vineyard Initiative and hosting the annual ECOWAS Youth Summit demonstrates her determination to transform personal convictions into practical action.

Through the 13th ECOWAS Youth Summit, she continues to advocate a future in which young people are equipped to defend human dignity, reject exploitation, contribute to development and build bridges across national and cultural boundaries.

Although funding challenges remain, her determination to expand the initiative reflects her belief that meaningful development requires persistence, partnerships and a shared commitment to the common good.

Ultimately, Eyegho wants her work to outlive her personal involvement, creating a sustainable platform through which future generations can continue learning about diplomacy, regional cooperation, leadership and humanitarian service.

As she pursues her vision of a more united and prosperous West Africa, her message remains consistent: the future of the region depends on the quality of its leadership, the opportunities available to its young people and the willingness of its citizens to work together.

Through Shalom Vineyard Initiative and the 13th ECOWAS Youth Summit, Lady Ambassador Judith Eyegho is building more than a platform for youth engagement; she is nurturing a vision of a West Africa where compassion, integrity, cooperation and purposeful leadership become enduring foundations for development.

Event

WiM Africa and Women in Advertising to Explore Nigeria’s Creative Potential at Real Talk Lagos

by Women Times on October 22, 2026

Women in Marketing Africa (WiM Africa), in partnership with Women in Advertising (WIA-AAAN), will bring its Real Talk Debate Series to Lagos this November. The event will convene senior leaders from Nigeria’s marketing, advertising, media and creative industries to discuss the country’s creative potential and how it can translate into greater cultural and commercial impact.

Taking place on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, the debate will focus on the theme: “From Creative Ambition to Impact: Is Nigeria Realising Its Creative Potential?”

Nigeria is one of Africa’s most influential creative markets, with its music, film, fashion and culture increasingly shaping global trends. The discussion will examine whether the marketing and advertising industry is fully converting the country’s talent, cultural influence and creative ambition into distinctive, effective and globally recognised work.

The conversation will consider the wider industry ecosystem, including brands, agencies, creative leadership, media, investment and the conditions required for ambitious ideas to thrive.

The event will open with a fireside conversation featuring Steve Babaeko, Founder and Group CEO of X3M Ideas and VP Africa for the International Advertising Association.

The panel is expected to bring together seven senior female leaders from across Nigeria’s marketing and creative industries. Speakers invited to participate include Sarah Agha, Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries; Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria; Fiona Uwagwu, MD Special Projects & Chief Digital Officer, First Primus Group (WPP Partner); Esosa Osagiede, Creative Director, Insight Publicis; Doris Ohanugo, Senior Vice President, Media Sales; Brenda Nwagwu, President, MIPAN; and Martha Ugbomma Onyebuchi, Director, Southern Region, ARCON.

Further speakers and programme details will be announced ahead of the event.

Andrea Djan-Krofa, CEO of Women in Marketing Africa, said:

‘“There is no question about the depth of creative talent and cultural influence coming out of Nigeria. What interests us is what happens between that creative ambition and measurable impact. Are we creating the conditions for our best ideas and talent to thrive? Are we being ambitious enough about what Nigerian creativity can achieve — commercially, culturally and globally?

“Real Talk is designed to create space for the conversations our industry needs to have, bringing different perspectives into the same room rather than looking for easy answers. Lagos feels exactly the right place for this conversation.”

Oluwaseyi Layade, Chairperson of Women in Advertising (AAAN), added:

“Nigeria has extraordinary creative energy, but realising its full potential demands collaboration across the entire ecosystem. Brands, agencies, creatives, media owners and industry leaders each have a role to play. This debate offers an opportunity for an open conversation about where we are today, what may be holding us back and, most importantly, what must happen next.”

A pan-African conversation

The Lagos event is part of WiM Africa’s Real Talk Debate Series, which brings senior industry leaders together to discuss issues shaping the future of marketing and creativity across Africa.

Previous editions have explored Gen Z and big brands in Johannesburg, AI in the marketing and creative industries in Accra, and authentic African representation by global brands in Nairobi.

Held in June 2026, the Nairobi edition welcomed more than 100 industry attendees and senior representatives from organisations including Mastercard, NBA Africa, WPP, Belva Digital, Safaricom and Kantar.

The Lagos debate continues WiM Africa’s work to create a platform for Africa’s marketing and creative community to challenge assumptions, exchange perspectives and contribute to conversations shaping the industry across the continent.

Event details

Real Talk Debate Lagos
From Creative Ambition to Impact: Is Nigeria Realising Its Creative Potential?

Date:Tuesday, 3 November 2026
Time: 4pm
Venue: TBC, Lagos
Tickets: https://tix.africa/discover/wimafricarealtalkdebatelagos

The event is presented by Women in Marketing Africa in partnership with Women in Advertising.

Empowerment

First Lady Rewards JABU Best Graduating Student with N5m

by Women Times on October 21, 2026

By Prosper Mene

October 20, 2026

First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has awarded N5 million to the overall best graduating student of Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU), Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State.

The beneficiary, Miss Misturah Elizabeth Oseni of the Department of Food Science and Technology, emerged best graduating student with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.96.

Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Olasebikan Alade Fakolujo, announced this on Monday at a pre-convocation press briefing held ahead of the institution’s 17th convocation and 20th anniversary celebration.

According to Fakolujo, the cash prize is part of an endowment by the First Lady to promote female academic excellence at the university.

“The overall best graduating student is Misturah Elizabeth Oseni from the Department of Food Science and Technology with a CGPA of 4.96. She will receive a special prize, including N5 million from the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu,” he said.

He disclosed that other outstanding graduands will also receive cash awards of N1 million and N500,000 in recognition of their academic performance.

The Vice-Chancellor said a total of 1,043 students will graduate at the convocation, comprising 897 undergraduates and 146 postgraduates.

Giving a breakdown, he said 83 students bagged first-class honours, 429 second-class upper division, 301 second-class lower division, 74 third-class and 10 pass degrees.

For the postgraduate category, he said the university will graduate 22 PhD holders, 94 academic master’s degree holders, 27 Master of Business Administration (MBA) holders and three Postgraduate Diploma recipients.

Fakolujo noted that the university’s annual award fund for outstanding students has grown steadily from N17.5 million in 2024 to N24 million in 2025 and N27 million in 2026.

“Excellence should be recognised, encouraged and rewarded, and that is what our Chancellor has been doing since he came on board in 2024,” he said.

Reflecting on the institution’s 20-year journey, the Vice-Chancellor identified institution-building, human capital development and entrepreneurial education as JABU’s major achievements.

He said the university, founded by the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), has continued to strengthen its academic programmes and institutional systems while promoting practical competence and economic empowerment.

He also revealed that JABU has partnered with Google for Education to enhance digital skills among staff and students, and has developed its first five-year strategic plan covering 2027 to 2031, with focus on academic excellence, research and innovation, digital transformation and infrastructure development.

Fakolujo acknowledged past challenges, including financial constraints and reform delays, but said the university has continued to adapt and improve, with emphasis on research that addresses real societal problems.

Empowerment

From Opportunity to Expansion: How Fidelity Bank FundHer Supported Akara Café’s Next Chapter

by Women Times on October 20, 2026

Building a business is often about recognising opportunities at the right time and having the capacity to act on them.

For us at Akara Café, there came a point when an exciting opportunity presented itself: the chance to create a premium sub-brand that would offer a new expression of what we had built with Akara Café.

It was an exciting prospect, but it was also a significant financial commitment.

Like many growing businesses, we understood that expansion requires more than a great idea. It requires the right people, resources, planning and, importantly, access to capital. While we had continued to build and grow our existing business, taking on a new expansion meant having to carefully balance the investment required for the new venture with the working capital needed to keep our day-to-day operations running smoothly.

That was where Fidelity Bank’s FundHer programme became particularly valuable to us.

Through FundHer, we were able to access financing at a critical point in our expansion journey. The funding provided us with the additional capacity to deploy capital towards some of the costs associated with developing our premium sub-brand, while allowing us to preserve part of our working capital for the continued operations of Akara Café.

For a growing business, that flexibility can make a meaningful difference.

Access to financing is not simply about receiving funds. It is about having the financial room to make strategic decisions, pursue opportunities and continue building without unnecessarily putting pressure on existing operations.

Beyond the financing itself, our experience was made even better by the support we received throughout the process. Our Account Manager, Ms. Racheal, was responsive, supportive and available when we needed guidance. Her assistance made the process feel considerably easier and more seamless, which we appreciated, particularly at a time when there were many moving parts involved in the expansion.

Today, Pavillon the newest Akara cafe branch in Abuja, represents a new chapter for us.

It is a premium expression of the Akara Café brand and an opportunity to take what we have built into a new space. For us, opening Pavillon is more than simply adding another location; it is a reflection of our growth, our ambition and our willingness to explore new possibilities.

The journey from an idea to an actual physical space required careful planning, investment and commitment. Having access to the right financial support helped give us the capacity to take that important step.

More importantly, Pavillon represents what can happen when a growing business is able to recognise an opportunity and access the support needed to pursue it.

Looking back, I am reminded that growth does not always happen in one dramatic leap. Sometimes, it is a series of deliberate decisions, each one building on the last. Having access to the right financial support at the right time can help make those decisions possible.

We are grateful to Fidelity Bank for being part of this chapter of our journey through FundHer and for supporting our ambition to build, expand and create something even bigger.

As we look ahead, our focus remains the same: to continue growing the Akara Café story, creating memorable experiences and exploring new possibilities.

Pavillon is one of those possibilities. And for us, it is only the beginning.

Empowerment

Seven Women, Seven Innovations: How InnovateNaija Is Changing Nigeria’s Tech Story

by Women Times on October 19, 2026

By Prosper Mene

When Nigeria’s tech story is told, the focus is often on scale, startups and growth. But there is another story unfolding: the women building solutions to real problems across the country.

That story took center stage at the InnovateNaija Challenge, a national technology and innovation competition led by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) in partnership with AfriLabs and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development.

Seven women made it to the final 15, and one of them took home the ultimate prize. Their innovations cut across healthcare, agriculture, energy, environmental sustainability and everyday life.

At the national pitch event held on October 6, 2026, all 15 finalists presented physical prototypes before industry experts, investors and policymakers.

Emerging as the overall grand prize winner of N100 million was Abia State innovator Adaeze Ruth Akpagbula, co-founder of Farm Speak, for her PenKeep Smart Poultry Climate Control System.

PenKeep is designed to help farmers manage climate-related challenges across poultry, aquaculture, greenhouse and smart irrigation systems. It shows how deep tech can solve fundamental agricultural problems.

For Akpagbula, who has spoken about funding, infrastructure and electricity as major hurdles for hardware innovators in Nigeria, the prize will help expand production capacity and reach more farmers.

Innovating Across Every Sector

Akpagbula’s win was part of a strong showing by female innovators in the competition.

The seven female finalists were:

Kemisola Bolarinwa, Ekiti State: Smart Bra Cup Diagnostic Device, a tech solution exploring early detection for breast health.

Elizabeth Chioma Chiketarauba, Imo State: Torquenova, an electric vehicle and main power generator that can be recharged through an in-built solar system or mains supply.

Rita Idehai, Edo State: Automated Reverse Vending Machine, applying technology to waste management and environmental sustainability.

Chinyere Esther Onwumelu, Nasarawa State: Gas-Level Monitoring and Community Gas Metering System, tackling energy access and accountability.

Khadija Adamu Dandada, Kano State: Shepall App, a digital solution addressing practical everyday needs.

Miriam Ashiemar Agbo, Benue State: Anatsor Integrated Poultry Management System, focused on agricultural productivity and livestock management.

Adaeze Ruth Akpagbula, Abia State: PenKeep Smart Poultry Climate Control System, the overall winner.

Their stories matter beyond the competition. Nigeria’s tech sector needs people who can identify problems, build solutions and take an idea to a tangible product. The presence and victory of female innovators at InnovateNaija is a clear reminder that Nigerian women are already doing that work as engineers, inventors, developers and problem solvers.

Platforms like InnovateNaija create room for that innovation to grow. Beyond the cash prizes, which included N100 million for the grand winner and N30 million and N20 million for runners-up, all 15 finalists gained long-term access to advanced manufacturing tools and infrastructure across NASENI’s nationwide technology institutes.

Most importantly, Akpagbula’s victory and the work of her fellow finalists give young Nigerian girls something tangible to see: they do not have to wait for someone else to build the future. They can build it themselves, and they can win.

Event

Glenfiddich Brings Its Global BEYOND Platform To Lagos With Nancy Isime, Swanky Jerry & Ifeanyi Nwune

by Women Times on October 8, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Glenfiddich brought its global BEYOND platform to Lagos for an evening that celebrated craftsmanship, creativity, and culture — and the drive to go beyond expectations.

The exclusive event gathered HNIs, celebrities, creatives, fashion personalities and cultural tastemakers, with Glenfiddich collaborators Nancy Isime, Swanky Jerry and Ifeanyi Nwune leading the campaign’s Nigerian expression.

At the heart of BEYOND is Glenfiddich’s belief that exceptional craftsmanship lives in the details. It’s the same philosophy behind the brand’s partnership with the Aston Martin Formula One™ Team — a collaboration that connects whisky and engineering through shared precision, curiosity and attention to detail.

The partnership is embodied by Glenfiddich Malt Master Brian Kinsman and Aston Martin Formula One™ Team Managing Technical Partner Adrian Newey, whose expertise shapes the story behind the latest expression.

Taking centre stage on the night was the Glenfiddich 16 Year Old Limited Release No. 02, the second release celebrating the collaboration with Aston Martin Formula One™ Team. Matured in first-fill bourbon barrels and finished in Port, Fino Sherry, Oloroso Sherry and wine casks, the whisky delivers a layered profile of stewed fruits, floral notes, marzipan and polished leather, with creamy toffee, caramelised cane sugar, dry oak tannin and a long-lasting oaky sweetness. Bottled at 43% ABV in 700ml, it can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

For its Lagos debut, BEYOND was reimagined through a distinctly Nigerian lens — with fashion, music, design and entertainment shaping the experience. Nancy Isime, Swanky Jerry and Ifeanyi Nwune each brought their own creative perspective to the campaign, spanning film, fashion, craft and design, reinforcing Glenfiddich’s vision of global craft meeting original Nigerian expression.

More than a whisky launch, the night captured the spirit of BEYOND — where global craftsmanship met Nigerian creativity in an evening defined by style, connection and entertainment.