Empowerment - Women Times

Moniepoint Kicks Off Sixth Women in Tech Internship with “There Is Space for You” Campaign

by Women Times on April 1, 2026

Moniepoint Inc., Africa’s fastest-growing financial institution and a leader in digital financial services, has announced the opening of applications for the 2026 edition of its Women in Tech internship programme. Now in its sixth year, the programme continues to grow its reach across Nigeria. This year’s campaign, themed “There Is Space for You,” is a direct call to women nationwide—those with talent, drive, and ambition—who have faced challenges accessing opportunities in the tech industry.

The choice of the theme underscores intentionality. Despite notable progress in recent years, women make up only 25% of Nigeria’s tech workforce, even though they constitute nearly half of the population and 22% of annual STEM graduates. Moniepoint’s Women in Tech initiative has spent five years working to close this gap, providing access and opportunities for women to thrive in the industry.

Building on the success of last year’s “Dream 15” cohort—the programme’s largest intake to date—the 2026 edition aims to expand opportunities further. It will offer more roles in some of the most sought-after disciplines in the industry, including Cloud Engineering, Frontend and Backend Engineering, Data Engineering, Systems Administration, Product Management, Information Security, Mobile Engineering, and Site Reliability Engineering. These roles are foundational to the future of digital finance in Africa, and Moniepoint is committed to positioning women at the heart of this transformation.

Successful applicants will receive a competitive salary, work tools, branded merchandise, and direct mentorship from seasoned professionals across the company. As with previous cohorts, high performers will be considered for full-time employment—an opportunity that has already transformed many women’s careers since the programme’s inception.

The real success stories underpin this year’s campaign. Over 8,000 applications were received last year, resulting in 15 interns. Among them are young women like Uzoamaka Anyaegbuna, Adaeze Ugwumba, Iyinoluwa Akenroye, Loveth Abang, and Bisola Abimbola, who joined as interns and have since become what Moniepoint calls “DreamMakers”—full-time employees leading projects, building systems, and shaping the company’s products from within.

A common critique of internships is that they often lack substance. Bisola Abimbola’s experience at Moniepoint, however, was the opposite; she was treated as a peer from day one.

“I can confidently say the internship was one of the best things that’s happened in my career. I was given real product ownership, working on multiple projects and driving them forward like an actual product manager, not just observing from the sidelines. Projects were thrown at me with an implicit question: ‘Can you handle this?’ I had to step up, own the outcomes, and actually deliver. That experience made me comfortable with the autonomy and accountability I now have. This hands-on experience made all the difference and solidified my resolve that this is exactly where I’m meant to be.”

Chinaza Nduka-Dike, Head of People Operations at Moniepoint Inc., reiterated the company’s dedication to the initiative. “With the Women in Tech programme, we are not just inspiring inclusion, we are actively creating sustainable pathways for women to thrive in the tech industry. This is a space where diversity fuels innovation, and through programmes like this, we are empowering women to take on leadership roles, develop crucial skills, and shape the future of technology. The progress we have seen across five cohorts, where alumni have gone on to make significant contributions to the company and the wider tech ecosystem, fills us with pride. There is space for the next generation, and we are ready for them.”

The launch of the 2026 campaign coincides with the conclusion of Women’s Month and exemplifies Moniepoint’s broader commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 on Gender Equality. These initiatives reflect a firm conviction: empowering women is an ongoing responsibility that requires sustained investment in access, skill development, and creating a sense of belonging.

Applications open on March 30, 2026. The programme is open to women across Nigeria seeking to start or pivot their careers in technology—whether self-taught or formally trained. More details on available roles and application procedures can be found on the Women in Tech website: https://womenintech.moniepoint

Empowerment

Proudly Nigerian! Nabila Aguele Makes History as New Global CEO of Malala Fund

by Women Times on March 31, 2026

By Prosper Mene

In a landmark appointment that has Nigerians beaming with pride, Nabila Aguele has been named the next Chief Executive Officer of the Malala Fund. Effective April 1, 2026, she becomes the organisation’s first global CEO based in Nigeria — one of the Malala Fund’s priority countries and home to one of the world’s highest numbers of out-of-school girls.

Nabila Aguele, a proud Nigerian leader with deep roots in policy, advocacy, and sustainable development, currently serves as Chief Executive of Malala Fund Nigeria. Since joining in 2024, she has steered the country office with remarkable impact, overseeing nearly $3 million in grants to local education advocates and championing a civil society coalition that uses education as a powerful tool to end child marriage.

Her appointment follows a carefully planned leadership transition from outgoing CEO Lena Alfi, who served the organisation for nearly nine years (including three as CEO) and successfully launched the Malala Fund’s 2025–2030 strategy.

Nabila Aguele shared her excitement in a heartfelt statement:

“I am honoured to step into this role at such an important moment for girls’ education and for Malala Fund. Having grown within this organisation and led our work in Nigeria, I know the strength of this team, the ambition of our strategy and the power of our partnerships. Building on Lena’s leadership, I am committed to deepening our impact and ensuring that every girl can claim the education she deserves.”

Malala Yousafzai, co-founder of the Malala Fund and Executive Board Chair, praised the choice:

“Nabila is the leader this moment calls for. She brings deep policy and advocacy experience, trusted leadership within Malala Fund and a close understanding of what it takes to drive change for girls from the ground up. I am deeply grateful to Lena for guiding Malala Fund through an important period of transformation and helping build the foundation for this next chapter. I have every confidence in what Nabila and our team will achieve together.”

Ziauddin Yousafzai, co-founder and Board Member, added:

“I have seen Nabila’s leadership up close, and she brings a rare combination of wisdom, integrity and deep understanding of the realities girls face. She is the right leader to carry this work forward.”

With over 20 years of cross-sector experience spanning law, public policy, and international development in both Nigeria and the United States, Nabila previously served as Special Adviser to Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning. In that role, she championed gender-responsive fiscal policies and played a key part in crafting the country’s Integrated National Financing Framework.

The Malala Fund, co-founded by Malala Yousafzai and her father Ziauddin, works relentlessly to ensure every girl can access and complete 12 years of quality education. Through grantmaking and bold advocacy, the organisation has awarded more than $9 million in grants in the past year alone to over 40 partners across 10 countries. In Nigeria specifically, it has invested over $7.8 million since 2014, with Nabila’s leadership further amplifying locally-driven solutions.

This appointment is not just a personal triumph for Nabila Aguele — it is a powerful statement of confidence in African leadership and the power of homegrown solutions to tackle global challenges. As Nigeria continues to produce world-class changemakers, her elevation to the helm of one of the most influential girls’ education organisations in the world fills every Nigerian heart with pride.

Congratulations, Nabila! The future of girls’ education just got a whole lot brighter with a Nigerian sister leading the charge.

Empowerment

Fidelity Bank Launches ‘Give Her Power’ Initiative and Signs MoU to Boost Women’s Economic Empowerment in Nigeria

by Women Times on March 11, 2026

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Innoson Kiara Academy, Endi Ezengwa; Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Lagos State, Bolaji Cecilia Dada; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe; and Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Lagos State, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem; during the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the launch of “Give Her Power” initiative as part of the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) activities at the Fidelity Bank Head Office in Lagos, recently.

In celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, Fidelity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its dedication to empowering Nigerian women through the launch of its innovative “Give Her Power” initiative. The bank also formalized strategic partnerships with key organizations by signing Memoranda of Understanding (MoU), aimed at equipping women with essential skills, mentorship, financial literacy, and enterprise support.

The event, which brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders—including LUSH Hair, Barbergirl Academy School of Barbering, Dee ‘n’ Ell the Shoe Architect, Inter-Bau Foundation, IVM Innoson, the National Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC), and One Universe—underscored the bank’s commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth.

Central to this initiative is the Bank’s HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme, a structured platform that offers vocational training and sustainable business opportunities across various sectors to women nationwide.

During the launch, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, emphasized that the bank’s ‘HerFidelity’ initiative underscores its steadfast commitment to creating opportunities that empower women to attain financial independence and build sustainable businesses. She stated, “At Fidelity Bank, we strongly believe that empowering women is not only a social responsibility but also a powerful economic strategy. Through the ‘Give Her Power’ initiative and the HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme, we are providing women with practical tools, vocational skills and financial knowledge that will enable them to move from effort to earnings and from hustle to sustainable enterprise.”

The bank plans to implement various interventions throughout March, including the distribution of 1,000 sewing and grinding machines to support women-led microbusinesses. Additional activities include vocational training in automobile mechanics, interior decoration, barbing, hair making, and shoe making. The initiative also features professional headshot sessions to bolster women’s personal and professional brands, mentorship engagements with leading female entrepreneurs, and practical skill development in makeup artistry, nail care, and traditional headgear tying.

Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe highlighted the broader impact of empowering women: “When women are empowered economically, the impact extends far beyond individuals. It strengthens families, grows businesses, and uplifts entire communities. Research suggests that advancing women could add up to $12 trillion to global GDP. This reinforces the need to deliberately create platforms that support women to build sustainable businesses and strengthen their economic independence.”

The Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, praised Fidelity Bank for its leadership in championing entrepreneurship and supporting women. She stated, “This initiative strongly aligns with the Lagos State Government’s commitment to building an inclusive economy where women have access to skills, mentorship and financial opportunities they need to thrive. Women remain key drivers of commerce and enterprise across Lagos, from traditional markets to emerging digital sectors. This initiative by Fidelity Bank has ensured that we stayed true to the promoting and supporting women.”

Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, also commended Fidelity Bank for its efforts in financial inclusion and economic independence for women, emphasizing that “Empowering women economically is one of the most effective ways to reduce poverty and strengthen communities. We commend Fidelity Bank for this forward-thinking initiative and for demonstrating how collaboration between the private sector and government can create meaningful opportunities for women across the state.”

Representatives from partner organizations expressed gratitude to Fidelity Bank for the collaboration, noting that the partnership will significantly expand vocational training and entrepreneurship opportunities for women.

The “Give Her Power” initiative aims to empower hundreds of women through skill acquisition, mentorship, and startup funding, reinforcing the vital role women play in Nigeria’s economic development.

Fidelity Bank Plc, ranked among Nigeria’s top banks, serves over 10 million customers through its extensive digital banking channels, 255 branches across Nigeria, and its UK subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited. The bank has received numerous awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI), the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application by Global Business Outlook, and recognition as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by Euromoney Awards for Excellence.

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Ondo Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa Empowers 200 Women with ICT and Vocational Tools

by Women Times on January 20, 2026

By Prosper Mene

In taking step towards promoting women’s economic independence and poverty reduction, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has empowered 200 women with vocational tools and startup resources following their successful completion of skill acquisition training.

The initiative, part of the O’Datiwa Skill Up a Woman Initiative (also referred to as O’Datiwa Skill Acquisition Programme), culminated in a graduation ceremony for the first batch of 2025 trainees held in Akure on Tuesday. The beneficiaries underwent six months of intensive training in various trades, equipping them with practical skills to foster self-reliance and entrepreneurship.

The training covered diverse areas, including Information and Communication Technology (ICT), tailoring (fashion designing), soap making, catering services (including confectionaries and baking), interior decoration, and other vocational skills. To ensure immediate application of their newly acquired expertise, the state government presented the graduates with relevant startup tools and equipment. These included laptops for ICT trainees, sewing machines for fashion designers, flour mixers and ovens for bakers and caterers, as well as grants for some participants to serve as startup capital.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, represented at the event, reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to expanding skill acquisition programmes as a key strategy for job creation and economic empowerment, particularly among women. He emphasized that the programme transforms unemployed individuals into skilled, confident, and self-sustaining entrepreneurs, aligning with broader goals of poverty alleviation and gender equality.

The Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, highlighted the transformative impact of the initiative. She noted that the government has demonstrated that women require genuine empowerment, through skills and resources, rather than mere handouts or tokenism. “Women are multipliers with the ability to invest wisely when empowered,” she stated, adding that the 200 beneficiaries can now sustain themselves and contribute to building future generations without facing ridicule or dependency.

This empowerment drive shows Governor Aiyedatiwa’s people-centered “OUR EASE” policy thrust, which prioritizes inclusive development, youth and women engagement, and sustainable livelihoods. The programme is expected to boost local economies by enabling participants to establish small businesses, generate income, and support their families.

Empowerment

Queens Palm Support Initiative Turns Two, Inspires Young Minds with Skills for Success

by Women Times on November 20, 2025

The Queens Palm Support Initiative commemorated its second anniversary with a transformative leadership and communication workshop aimed at empowering young people aged 15 to 35 with vital soft skills for personal, academic, and professional growth. Held in Lagos, the event featured intensive sessions on Leadership Skills, Effective Communication, Personal Branding, Emotional Intelligence, and Counselling. Participants from various schools across Lagos, including Laureates College, Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls, Lagos Anglican Grammar School, Topgrade Schools, and International School Lagos (ISL), attended the program.

Sabrina Ozma, founder of the Initiative, shared that the program was born from her experiences as a communications specialist and a divine calling to create an empowering platform for youth development. She revealed that the initiative, which launched in Abuja in 2023, has experienced significant growth over the past two years, driven by a desire to equip young individuals with soft skills that promote excellence and strong character.

Ozma acknowledged that the journey has not been without challenges, including misunderstandings from some schools and limited funding. Nevertheless, she expressed heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support from family and friends, which has kept the vision alive. She emphasized that the core aim of the initiative is to see young people thrive, develop leadership qualities, communicate effectively, and cultivate the mindset needed for future influence. This year’s workshop provided attendees with valuable insights into emotional intelligence, personal branding, leadership, and mental resilience.

Joshua Ajayi, founder and publisher of Brand Communicator, described the workshop as profoundly impactful. He shared that he stayed beyond his session to learn from other facilitators and urged participants to be intentional about building their personal brands and living in ways that leave a lasting, meaningful impression even in their absence.

Bodam Taiwo, founder of the Refined Female Movement, cited her motivation as her vision and the lives connected to her purpose. Speaking on leadership and discipline, she encouraged young people, especially those interested in fields like engineering, to strengthen their minds, embrace discipline, practice delayed gratification, and stay focused on achieving greatness.

Personal Development Coach Temitayo Olawale-Olatujoye expressed her delight at witnessing young participants gain insights she didn’t have at their age. She emphasized the importance of cultivating emotional intelligence intentionally and urged attendees to approach life with purpose and deliberate decision-making.

Relationship Coach Dr. Funmilayo Ajetunmobi described her participation as an honor, noting that shaping young minds is one of the most rewarding investments. She highlighted emotional intelligence as a foundation for sustaining relationships and unlocking opportunities, stressing that talent alone is insufficient without the ability to manage emotions and relate well to others.

Participants shared their reflections. Yomisun Amira from International School UNILAG stated the workshop helped her become more expressive and self-aware. Anjola Oluwamushin of Laureates College said she gained confidence and clarity about discovering her purpose, while Chineme Okpala-Nedu of Lagos Anglican Grammar School noted that she learned the importance of self-belief and maintaining a strong vision for her future.

The Queens Palm Support Initiative reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing young people with leadership, communication, emotional intelligence, and personal development skills—essential tools for shaping their future, transforming communities, and influencing society for generations to come.

Empowerment

Nigerian Bottling Company Reinforces Commitment to Women’s Empowerment at WIMBIZ 2025

by Women Times on November 11, 2025

Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Ltd., a prominent player in the consumer packaged goods industry and part of the Coca-Cola HBC group, reaffirmed its dedication to women’s empowerment and leadership during the 24th Annual WIMBIZ Conference. Held on November 6–7, 2025, at Eko Hotels and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos, the event themed “Own. Walk. Nurture.” brought together influential women leaders across sectors.

During a key panel titled “Leading from the Inside Out: Balancing Ambition, Vulnerability & Purpose,” Oluwasoromidayo George, NBC’s Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, shared valuable insights on authentic leadership rooted in purpose. Drawing from her extensive experience, she emphasized the importance of intentionality, strategy, and authenticity in navigating career growth.

George highlighted that workplaces today must evolve to better support individuals through personal and professional challenges, fostering environments where women can thrive and make meaningful contributions. She underscored that qualities such as authenticity, emotional intelligence, and vulnerability are vital leadership traits that foster trust and influence within organizations.

“Vulnerability, in my view, is about being open and confident at work. It helps build connection and trust, especially with influential stakeholders. Stay true to yourself and your values wherever you are. Be kind to yourself and others. Women must show up, and they must show up well,” she stated.

Demonstrating its commitment to women-led enterprises, NBC awarded a N1 million grant each to two entrepreneurs, Toyibah Shehu Mohammed of FarhM’s Food and Sauce Global Limited and Helen Gabriel of Ogy’s Cakes. The recipients were recognized for their resilience, creativity, and potential to create economic impact. Both expressed gratitude for NBC’s support and the platform provided to scale their businesses.

Jolomi Fawehinmi, NBC’s People & Culture Director, reaffirmed the company’s belief in the transformative power of women entrepreneurship. “Women-led businesses significantly contribute to our economy and community development. To all women participating in the Entrepreneurship Masterclass, your commitment to growth and excellence is commendable,” she said.

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Ogun State Launches Initiative to Empower 105,000 Women in Four Key Local Governments

by Women Times on November 6, 2025

By Prosper Mene

Ogun State Government has unveiled the Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up (NFWP-SU), targeting over 105,000 women across four strategically selected local government areas (LGAs).

The initiative, launched today in Akute, Ifo LGA, promises enhanced access to finance, business training, and social networks, positioning Ogun as a frontrunner in gender-inclusive development.

The project focuses on Ifo, Ijebu-Ode, Sagamu, and Ado-Odo/Ota LGAs, where women in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) often struggle with limited capital and market linkages. Funded by the Federal Government in partnership with the World Bank, NFWP-SU builds on the success of earlier phases that have already empowered tens of thousands of women nationwide. In Ogun alone, precursor programs like the state-led Oko’wo Dapo scheme have disbursed billions in grants, lifting over 100,000 women toward financial self-reliance since Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration began in 2019.

Speaking at the launch event, Ogun’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye, hailed the program as a “bold step toward institutionalizing women’s economic empowerment in the Gateway State.” She emphasized the role of community leaders and traditional rulers in sustaining momentum, urging participants to form affinity groups for mutual support. “This is not just a government handout—it’s a movement to equip our women with the tools to build lasting enterprises and secure their families’ futures,” Adeleye stated.

State Project Coordinator Mrs. Bolanle Fadairo provided deeper insights into the program’s structure, noting its phased rollout across six states. “NFWP-SU fosters women’s economic empowerment through targeted interventions: savings mobilization, skills workshops, and enterprise grants. In Ogun, we’re prioritizing rural and informal sector women, who form the backbone of our local economy.” Early beneficiaries will receive revolving grants, business mentorship, and digital literacy training, with monitoring to ensure scalability.

The launch drew widespread acclaim from local stakeholders. Moradeun Ogundele, Chairman of the Akute Central Community Development Council, praised the initiative for its potential to “significantly improve socio-economic conditions while promoting financial stability at the grassroots level.” Community women in attendance shared stories of past hardships, from subsidy removal’s ripple effects to barriers in accessing traditional loans, expressing optimism that NFWP-SU could turn the tide.

This effort aligns with Governor Abiodun’s broader agenda, including an Executive Order mandating 35% women’s representation in governance and politics, and the expansion of safe centers that double as vocational hubs for gender-based violence survivors. Earlier this year, over 40,000 women benefited from the Oko’wo Dapo scheme, which provided financial literacy and startup capital, demonstrating the state’s commitment to inclusive growth amid economic challenges.

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Ekiti First Lady Unveils Empowerment Fellowship to Boost Female Students’ Leadership and Education

by Women Times on October 31, 2025

By Prosper Mene

Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, the First Lady of Ekiti State, today unveiled the Ekiti Female Students Empowerment Fellowship (EFSEF).

The program, launched at the Ekiti State Government House, seeks to support 500 outstanding female students across secondary and tertiary institutions in the state, providing scholarships, mentorship, and skill-building workshops to foster the next generation of female leaders.

The fellowship came at a pivotal moment for gender equity in Nigeria’s Southwest, where Dr. Oyebanji has long championed initiatives for vulnerable girls. “Education is the greatest equalizer, but for our girls, it’s often the hardest path to tread,” Dr. Oyebanji said during the unveiling ceremony. “This fellowship is more than financial aid, it’s a commitment to dismantling barriers, igniting ambition, and ensuring that every female student in Ekiti has the tools to lead, innovate, and thrive.”

The EFSEF, funded through a partnership between the Office of the First Lady, the Ekiti State Ministry of Education, and private sector donors, offers:

Full scholarships covering tuition, books, and exam fees for selected students from low-income families.

Mentorship pairings with accomplished women leaders, including alumni from the University of Ibadan and Ekiti State University, to guide participants in career development.

Workshops on digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and gender-based violence prevention, building on Dr. Oyebanji’s previous efforts like the distribution of school supplies to 400 vulnerable pupils in 2023 and advocacy for sex education in curricula.

A focus on STEM fields, with priority given to girls pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to address underrepresentation.

Eligibility targets female students aged 12–20 with strong academic records and demonstrated community involvement. Applications open November 1, 2025, via the official Ekiti State website, with selections announced by December 15.

Dr. Oyebanji’s passion for female education echoes her recent engagements, including an inspiring lecture at the University of Ibadan on October 6, 2025, where she urged students to view leadership as “action, responsibility, and vision.”

Earlier this year, she rallied against gender-based violence in schools and pushed for wider HPV vaccination coverage, vaccinating over 266,000 girls since May 2024 to protect adolescent health.

Guest speakers at the launch, including Prof. Joseph Ayodele from Ekiti State University, praised the initiative for creating “psychosocially safe environments” that enhance learning. Prof. Ayodele noted, “When girls feel supported, they not only excel academically but also build the confidence to challenge societal norms.”

Local stakeholders, such as the Ekiti State Primary Health Care Development Agency, hailed the fellowship as a “holistic approach” integrating health, education, and empowerment. One beneficiary preview, 16-year-old Aisha from Ado-Ekiti, shared, “This means I can dream bigger—maybe become an engineer without worrying about fees.

With Ekiti State already boasting renovated school facilities and digital literacy training for thousands, EFSEF aligns with national goals for gender equality under the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It also responds to calls for inclusive education, as seen in Dr. Oyebanji’s 2024 address at Venite University, where she encouraged female students to engage in agriculture for food security.

Empowerment

Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation Concludes Phase 6 of “Kit A Child” Education Support Programme in Mushin and Surulere

by Women Times on October 6, 2025

The Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation (CEF) has successfully concluded the sixth phase of its flagship “Kit A Child” (KAC) initiative; a programme that equips pupils in underserved communities with essential learning materials, inspiring confidence and a renewed passion for education.

Held between September 25 and October 3, 2025, this latest phase covered schools in Mushin and Surulere Local Government Areas, reaching hundreds of pupils with educational kits comprising exercise books, pens, pencils, and pencil cases.

Originally scheduled to end on September 29, the final distribution (Batch C) was moved to October 3, 2025, following the Independence Day holiday. The concluding event took place at Local Authority Primary School, Orile Iganmu, which shares its premises with Central Primary School, enabling volunteers to extend their outreach to both schools in one visit.

A Three-Batch distribution with Batch A (September 25) at New City, Palm Avenue, Oduduwa, Estate; and Papa Ajao Primary Schools, Mushin. Batch B (September 26) at Alaba Primary School, Mushin. While Batch C (October 3) held at Central and Local Authority Primary Schools, Orile Iganmu.

Speaking after the exercise, Mrs. Helen Egbe, Executive Director of Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation, expressed appreciation to the volunteers and partners whose dedication ensured the programme’s success.

“We are deeply grateful to our dedicated volunteers whose passion and commitment continue to drive CEF’s vision of giving every child the opportunity to learn and thrive. Through the Kit A Child initiative, we reaffirm that education remains the most powerful weapon to change lives and communities,” she said.

Each day, volunteers departed from the Foundation’s Ilupeju office, donning CEF reflector bibs and CNC-branded shirts, symbolizing the enduring partnership between Cakasa Nigeria Company Limited (CNC) and its corporate social responsibility arm, Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation.

The impact of the Kit A Child programme was immediately felt across the participating schools, with heartfelt words of appreciation pouring in from head teachers and education officers.

New City Primary School, Mushin, in a letter signed by Head Teacher Adeyemi Felix Olalede, wrote: “On behalf of pupils, teachers, and parents, I wish to express profound gratitude to Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation for the donation of writing materials which in no small measure contribute to the growth and development of our pupils’ education and serve as a source of relief to parents. Surely, the pupils feel your good impact. My prayer to Aunty Helen and the entire team is that the favour of God will not depart from you, and you will continue to move from strength to strength in Jesus’ name.”

From Papa Ajao Primary School, Head Teacher Mrs. Alice Ajibade wrote in exuberance: “CAKASA!!!!!!!!! On behalf of Papa Ajao Primary School, we say a big thank you for the writing materials presented to our pupils yesterday to change and shape their lives. The Foundation shall excel always. Thank you and God bless.”

Similarly, Mrs. Omolara Ogunshola, Health Desk Officer, School Support Unit, Mushin Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), conveyed a moving message of appreciation: “Mummy Helen, mother of thousands of children and still counting, our beautiful mummy with a heart of gold! Words alone cannot express how grateful we are. On behalf of LASUBE, ES Mushin LGEA, management of the six adopted schools, parents, and pupils, we say a very big thank you to Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation and to our mummy, Mrs. Helen Egbe, for supporting our pupils again with the Kit A Child back-to-school programme. We pray for more increase and achievements for your company in Jesus’ name.

At the final venue, Local Authority Primary School, Orile-Iganmu, Head Teacher Mr. Kehinde Sulaiman also expressed deep appreciation: “On behalf of the entire staff, parents, and pupils of Local Authority Nursery & Primary School, Orile-Iganmu, Surulere, we are saying a very BIG THANK YOU to your Foundation for the learning materials supplied to aid our pupils’ academic pursuits. Your Foundation will continue to grow from strength to strength in God’s mighty name. Many thanks and God bless you, ma.”

Through each phase, the Kit A Child programme continues to bridge educational gaps by ensuring that no child is left behind due to lack of basic materials. Since its inception, CEF has reached thousands of pupils across Lagos and neighbouring states reaffirming its belief that education is the key to unlocking a golden door of freedom.

Empowerment

Queen Wa Arian Simone’s Fearless Initiative Launches at UNGA, Setting Strategic Course for Future Generations

by Women Times on September 25, 2025

The Fearless Global Initiative (FGI), founded by entrepreneur, philanthropist, and CEO & Founding Partner of the Fearless Fund, HM Queen Wa Arian Simone, made its historic debut during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The event, held on September 22, 2025, at the Glasshouse Chelsea, gathered over 150 influential global leaders, cultural icons, policymakers, and changemakers under the theme “Designing the Future of Global Black Power.”

The gathering aimed to catalyze bold conversations and strategic collaborations focused on building a 100-year blueprint for economic inclusion and empowerment within Black communities worldwide. Queen Wa Arian Simone emphasized the importance of transitioning dialogue into tangible action: “FGI is where the follow-through finally happens. For too long, we’ve discussed equity without building the systems to sustain it. Today marks the beginning of shaping the next century of global Black economic power.”

The event featured notable speakers such as CNN anchor Abby Phillips, U.S. Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, civil rights attorney Ben Crump, UNHCR ambassador Kat Graham, and Liberian Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti, among others. Key sessions included “What Can I Do for You? What Can You Do for Me?”, which explored the relationship between Africa and Black America, and “The 100-Year Plan,” a collaborative effort to design a long-term strategy for economic, cultural, and political transformation.

A fireside chat with Kat Graham highlighted storytelling’s role in fostering economic growth, complemented by a cultural activation featuring Yoruba art by Laolu Senbanjo, symbolizing freedom and empowerment.

FGI positions itself as a continuation of the unfinished work begun during the civil rights movement, echoing Malcolm X’s call to see civil rights as human rights. With its launch, the initiative commits to accelerating progress toward global Black economic empowerment.

To stay connected and be part of this global movement for economic inclusion, join the mailing list at https://fearlessfreedom.com and follow the conversation at @fearlessfreedommedia.