Empowerment - Women Times

Nigerian Women Dive into Tech Training as Empowerment Program Kicks Off in Lagos.

by Women Times on April 9, 2025

By Prosper Mene, April 9, 2025

One day after its celebrated launch, the free tech training program for 300 Nigerian women, spearheaded by Honourable Kafilat Ogbara in partnership with New Horizons, is already making waves in Lagos. The initiative, which began yesterday, April 8, 2025, has transitioned from a visionary announcement to a bustling reality as the first cohort of women started their six-month journey into coding, cybersecurity, and digital marketing at a state-of-the-art training facility in the city’s tech hub.

The program, designed to bridge Nigeria’s gender gap in the tech sector, welcomed participants with an orientation session that set the tone for what’s to come. “I felt a mix of excitement and nerves walking in, but seeing so many women like me, ready to learn, made me feel unstoppable,” shared Aisha Ibrahim, a 24-year-old participant from Ikeja who spoke at the launch. Her opinion speaks the broader energy in the room, where women from diverse backgrounds, some fresh graduates, others pivoting careers, gathered with laptops open, ready to seize this opportunity.

Honourable Kafilat Ogbara, an advocate for women’s empowerment and the driving force behind the initiative, visited the training center today to check on the program’s progress. “Yesterday was about inspiration; today is about action,” she told the trainees. “You are the future of Nigeria’s tech industry, and I’m proud to see you take this step.” Ogbara’s partnership with New Horizons, a leading IT training provider, ensures the program is fully funded, removing financial barriers that often keep women out of tech education.

The curriculum, tailored to meet industry demands, includes hands-on projects and mentorship from seasoned professionals. Trainers at New Horizons emphasized that the goal isn’t just to teach skills but to prepare these women for real-world roles in Nigeria’s booming digital economy, which is projected to contribute billions in the coming years. “We’re not just teaching them to code or secure networks, we’re building confidence and career pathways,” said Tim Akano, CEO of New Horizons, during a tour of the facility.

The initiative tallies with broader national efforts to skill up Nigeria’s workforce, such as Microsoft’s commitment to train one million Nigerians in AI by 2026. However, what sets this program apart is its focus on gender equity, addressing the underrepresentation of women in tech.

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New Initiative to Empower 48,000 Women in Nigeria’s Katsina State Amid Economic and Security Challenges.

by Women Times on April 3, 2025

By Prosper Mene

A beacon of hope emerged for women in northern Nigeria today as the Women Initiative for Northern Nigeria Development unveiled an ambitious plan to support 48,000 women across 16 local government areas in Katsina State. The initiative, announced on April 3, 2025, aims to bolster economic opportunities in a region long hampered by insecurity and scarce resources, offering a lifeline to women seeking financial independence.

The program targets some of Katsina’s most underserved communities, where banditry, poverty, and limited infrastructure have disproportionately affected women’s livelihoods. By providing training, resources, and access to markets, the initiative seeks to bridge the economic gap that has left many women in the region struggling to support their families. Specific details on funding and implementation timelines are yet to be fully disclosed, but organizers say the effort will prioritize sustainable growth.

The move aligns with broader national commitments to uplift Nigerian women, syncing pledges made by President Bola Tinubu and other leaders during last month’s International Women’s Day events. In March, Tinubu emphasized dismantling systemic barriers and expanding women’s access to finance and governance roles, a vision this initiative aims to put into action. Katsina, a state in Nigeria’s northwest, has been a focal point for such efforts, given its high rates of poverty and gender disparity.

Local women’s advocates have welcomed the announcement, though some caution that success hinges on addressing the region’s security challenges. “Economic empowerment is vital, but it’s hard to thrive when you’re living in fear,” said Amina Yusuf, a community leader in Katsina. “This must go hand in hand with peace.”

The Women Initiative for Northern Nigeria Development’s plan marks a significant step toward gender equity in a region where opportunities for women have historically been limited. As the program rolls out, all eyes will be on Katsina to see if it can deliver on its promise of transformation amid the area’s complex realities.

Empowerment

YP4T Spreads Eid Joy, Distributes 2,000 Bags of Rice to Support Muslims and Widows in Lagos Police Barracks

by Women Times on April 2, 2025

Embracing the values of unity and compassion during the Eid festivities, Young Professionals for Tinubu (YP4T) has successfully distributed over 2,000 bags of rice to mosques and homes within police barracks throughout Lagos. This initiative, spearheaded by YP4T members, aims to provide essential food support to Muslim communities and widows, aligning with the group’s commitment to community engagement under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The rice distribution spanned major mosques in Ikeja, Ilupeju, Surulere, Ojuelegba, and Bariga, with particular attention given to reaching widows and vulnerable families within the barracks. The effort ensured that all community members could celebrate the festive season with dignity and support.

YP4T’s initiative serves not just as a seasonal act of generosity, but as a testament to the group’s dedication to inclusive development and grassroots nation-building. Volunteers worked closely with mosque leaders and local resident associations to guarantee that the distribution was carried out efficiently and respectfully.

Alex Oware, the National Coordinator for the initiative, emphasized the mission: “Our goal is simple—no one should feel forgotten during a time of celebration. This rice distribution represents more than just food; it symbolizes dignity, community, and the importance of making our people feel seen and supported. The mosques in our police barracks are vital gathering spaces, and we wanted to meet people where they are. At YP4T, we believe that small, consistent acts of care are the cornerstone of nation-building.”

Founded to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a more inclusive and economically empowered Nigeria, YP4T comprises Nigerian professionals from both home and abroad who are dedicated to grassroots development and civic engagement. The organization continues to implement impactful initiatives, including civic education, student grants, healthcare outreach, and seasonal support programs like this rice distribution.

Community members expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support during this sacred season. One widow from Surulere shared, “This kind of kindness shows that people remember us. This food will feed my children, and I feel deeply appreciated.”

Mosque leaders across the barracks commended YP4T for its thoughtful and inclusive approach. In several instances, the rice was not only distributed but also shared communally after prayers, further strengthening community bonds.

The Eid rice distribution is one of many efforts under YP4T’s humanitarian support program, which operates year-round to assist vulnerable populations in urban and rural areas. Earlier this year, the organization conducted a medical and care outreach program that benefited over 2,000 residents in Ikeja, providing free healthcare, food packages, and financial assistance. Looking ahead, YP4T plans to launch an educational grant program for final-year secondary school students across Nigeria, reinforcing its belief that development must be people-centered, inclusive, and sustainable.

As Nigeria continues to navigate its future, initiatives like these highlight the spirit of community service and collective responsibility that YP4T embodies.

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Nigerian Chess Master Tunde Onakoya Pledges to Fund Education of Young Girl in Ikoyi Child Labor Case.

by Women Times on April 1, 2025

By Prosper Mene

Tunde Onakoya, the renowned Nigerian chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, has stepped forward with a heartfelt promise to sponsor the education of an 11-year-old girl whose story recently captured national attention. The girl, seen sweeping the streets of Ikoyi alongside her mother, sparked widespread debate after her mother faced criticism for involving her in what many labeled as child labor. Onakoya’s gesture has since turned the spotlight from controversy to hope, offering the young girl a transformative opportunity.

The incident unfolded when a video of the girl working with her mother, a street sweeper in the affluent Ikoyi neighborhood, went viral. While some condemned the mother for exposing her daughter to labor instead of ensuring her education, others highlighted the harsh realities of poverty that often leave families with little choice. Amid the polarized reactions, Onakoya, known for his commitment to uplifting underprivileged children, saw a chance to make a difference.

“I believe every child deserves a shot at a better future, no matter their circumstances,” Onakoya said in a statement. “This young girl’s story moved me, and I’m honored to step in and support her education. It’s not just about one child, it’s about showing what’s possible when we invest in our youth.

Onakoya, who made history in 2024 by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon to raise funds for children’s education, has pledged to cover the girl’s schooling costs through his nonprofit organization, Chess in Slums Africa. The initiative, which uses chess as a tool to teach critical thinking and life skills, has already impacted thousands of children across the continent.

Details of the sponsorship are still being finalized, but sources close to Onakoya indicate it will include tuition, books, and other essentials to ensure the girl can attend school without financial burden. The move has been met with widespread praise, with many lauding Onakoya as a beacon of compassion and action in a country grappling with educational disparities.

The girl’s mother, whose identity remains private, reportedly expressed gratitude for the offer, noting that her intention was never to exploit her daughter but to survive in the face of economic hardship. “I just wanted to teach her hard work,” she said, according to a local report. “Now she has a chance I could never give her.”

Onakoya’s heartfelt help comes at the right time, a time when child labor remains a pressing issue in Nigeria, with millions of children out of school due to poverty, conflict, and systemic challenges. His promise not only offers a lifeline to one family but also reignites conversations about the need for broader solutions to ensure education for all.

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Nigeria’s First Female Mechanic Empowers a New Generation.

by Women Times on March 28, 2025

By Prosper Mene

Sandra Aguebor never fit the mold. Growing up in Benin City in the 1970s, she traded dolls for engines, dreaming of a life under the hood rather than in the kitchen. Today, at 50-something, she’s not just Nigeria’s first female mechanic—she’s a trailblazer who’s handed wrenches to hundreds of women, defying norms and rewriting futures through her Lady Mechanic Initiative (LMI).

Aguebor’s journey began at 13, sparked by a recurring dream she says came from divine inspiration: Jesus teaching her to fix cars. Her father balked; her mother beat her for tinkering instead of cooking. “They thought I was mad,” she recalls with a wry smile, her hands still stained with grease. But in 1983, she stepped into a local garage in old Bendel State, a teenage girl among men who’d fixed Peugeot 404s for generations. “They laughed at first, then they taught me,” she says. Six years later, she was a pro.

The road wasn’t smooth. “I had to work five times harder than the men,” Aguebor told CNN in 2020, recounting the skepticism and outright dismissal she faced. After stints at Edo Line and the Nigerian Railway Corporation, she launched Sandex Car Care Garage in the mid-90s. Success brought attention—and demolition. When authorities razed her first workshop, she turned her car into a mobile repair unit, proving grit outlasts concrete.

In 2004, Aguebor channeled that grit into the Lady Mechanic Initiative, a mission to empower vulnerable women orphans, trafficking survivors, former sex workers with the skills to fix cars and reclaim their lives. “I wanted to teach them how to fish,” she says, echoing a philosophy of independence. Over two decades, LMI has trained more than 1,000 women across five states, from Lagos to Kano. Graduates like Joy Amuche, now a mechanic in Edo, credit Aguebor with their transformation. “She made me who I am,” says Mary Sunday, another alumna.

The impact is tangible. Clients flock to LMI-trained mechanics, drawn by their precision and determination. “They’re better than some men who take the job for granted,” Aguebor notes, pride in her voice. Her vision stretches further: to mentor 100,000 women across Africa by 2030, smashing gender ceilings one oil change at a time.

Yet, challenges linger. Nigeria’s bureaucracy has uprooted her garage more than once, and cultural resistance still brands mechanics’ work as “unladylike.” Aguebor shrugs it off. “The obstacles became my opportunity,” she told Al Jazeera in 2015. Recognized with awards from Lagos Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and a national merit honor, she’s no longer an oddity but an icon.

Today, as she patrols her bustling Lagos workshop, Aguebor sees more than engines. She sees women like herself—defiant, skilled, and free. “My Nigeria is where women do what men say we can’t,” she declares. For her and her trainees, every revved engine roars a truth: stereotypes don’t stand a chance against a woman with a wrench.

Empowerment News Nigerian women Uncategorized Women Empowerment

Senator Natasha’s Ramadan Relief: Generosity or Political Play?

by Women Times on March 24, 2025

By Prosper Mene

As the sun lowers it’s head in Kogi Central this week, signaling the breaking of the Ramadan fast, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan brought a different kind of light to her constituents: 2,400 bags of grains. The haul—1,200 bags of beans and 1,200 bags of millet—was distributed across the five local government areas of Okene, Okehi, Adavi, Ajaokuta, and Ogori-Magongo, a gesture her team billed as a non-partisan act of support during tough economic times. But in a district buzzing with political tension, not everyone sees it as pure benevolence.

For recipients like Fatima Bello, a widow in Adavi, the provisions were a godsend. “Food p

rices are high, and Ramadan makes it harder. This beans will feed my children for days,” she said, her gratitude mirrored by dozens of others who lined up to receive their share. Represented by her aide Abdulrahman Badamasiu, Senator Natasha, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker and Kogi’s first female senator, insisted the aid was about fulfilling her duty. “It’s for everyone—PDP, APC, or no party at all,” Badamasiu relayed on her behalf, a nod to inclusivity in a politically divided region.

The timing, however, has tongues wagging. Natasha’s tenure has been anything but smooth since her 2023 election. Earlier this month, she was suspended from the Senate for six months without pay after alleging sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio—a charge he denies—prompting a storm of controversy. Meanwhile, a recall effort by some constituents hit a snag when a Federal High Court in Lokoja halted the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from proceeding, with Natasha’s allies claiming the signatures were fabricated. Against this backdrop, the grain distribution feels to some like a well-timed strategy.
“She’s been quiet since the suspension, and now this? It’s convenient,” mused Yusuf Ibrahim, a shopkeeper in Okene. Social media echoes his skepticism, with it’s users debating whether the senator is shoring up support amid whispers of a recall. Others point to her record—scholarships, vocational training, and advocacy for the Ajaokuta Steel Company—as proof she’s always been about service, not just survival. “This is who she is,” said Aisha Muhammed, a supporter at the distribution site. “People forget the good when drama takes over.”

Her critics, including APC Senator Sunday Karimi of Kogi West, see it differently. Karimi, who has traded barbs with Natasha over her suspension, recently called her actions a stain on Kogi’s reputation. Yet, the Concerned Constituents of Kogi Central, a pro-Natasha group, hit back, praising her “unwavering commitment” and teasing upcoming empowerment programs as evidence of her focus.

As bags of millet and beans settle into homes, the jury is out in Kogi Central. Is this a senator doubling down on her promise to serve, or a politician fighting to keep her seat? For now, the provisions offer tangible relief in a season of fasting and reflection—but they’ve also stirred a feast of opinions that Natasha’s next steps will need to digest.

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Nigerian Diaspora Women Illuminate Global Stage at STEM Conference.

by Women Times on March 19, 2025

By Prosper Mene

Nigerian women in the diaspora claimed the spotlight today at the 2025 Women in STEM Conference in London, showcasing groundbreaking innovations and reinforcing their role as trailblazers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The event, held at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre, drew hundreds of attendees from across the globe, with Nigerian voices resonating powerfully amid discussions on bridging the gender gap in STEM fields.

Dr. Ngozi Okeke, a UK-based engineer originally from Lagos, captivated the audience with her keynote address, unveiling a prototype for a low-cost solar energy system designed to electrify rural African communities. “Growing up with unreliable power taught me resilience and ingenuity,” she said, dedicating her work to the next generation of Nigerian girls dreaming of STEM careers. Her presentation earned a standing ovation, with attendees noting its potential to revolutionize energy access in developing regions.

Meanwhile, Tolu Adebayo, a software developer from Ibadan now living in Manchester, led a workshop on artificial intelligence applications for healthcare, highlighting a new algorithm she developed to improve early disease detection in underserved populations. “This is about using tech to save lives where it’s needed most,” Adebayo told reporters, emphasizing her roots as a driving force behind her innovation.

The conference, coinciding with ongoing global efforts following International Women’s Day earlier this month, underscored the contributions of Nigerian diaspora women to tackling worldwide challenges. Organizers praised their presence as a testament to the growing influence of African women in STEM, with one panelist remarking, “These women are not just participating—they’re leading.”

Back in Nigeria, the event sparked pride and conversation online, with hashtags like #NigerianWomenInSTEM trending as citizens celebrated their compatriots’ achievements abroad. The success of Okeke, Adebayo, and others at today’s conference highlights the vital role of the Nigerian diaspora in shaping a more inclusive and innovative global STEM landscape.

Empowerment Entrepreneur Women & Business

Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs Persist Amid Challenges, Driven by Quest for Stability.

by Women Times on March 17, 2025

By Prosper Mene

A recent report by Mastercard, first published by Businessday NG on 5 March, continues to resonate across Nigeria, shedding light on the motivations of female entrepreneurs. The study revealed that over 90% of Nigerian women are driven to start their own businesses by a desire for financial security, with a particular emphasis on achieving independence and establishing a safety net. This trend is especially pronounced among younger generations, namely millennials and Gen Z, who are increasingly taking their futures into their own hands.

Since the report’s release, it has sparked widespread discussion. Many women who have ventured into entrepreneurship acknowledge the difficulties but view it as a preferable alternative to reliance on others or an uncertain job market. Amaka, a hairdresser in Lagos, shared her perspective: “I opened my salon because I refused to live at the mercy of others. Rent is steep and power supply is unreliable, but I can now provide for my child and rest easier knowing I control my income.”

The Mastercard findings highlight a burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit, particularly among young women fresh from education or balancing side ventures. Rather than waiting for traditional employment opportunities, which are often scarce, they are launching small retail outlets, engaging in e-commerce, or offering services such as catering to secure their livelihoods.

However, the path is not without obstacles. Entrepreneurs frequently cite challenges such as taxation, poor infrastructure, and inconsistent electricity as significant hurdles. Despite these difficulties, their resolve remains unshaken. Chioma, a trader in Abuja, remarked, “I may not have everything I need, but I’m determined to ensure my children don’t endure the struggles I’ve faced.”

Observers suggest that this wave of determination could transform Nigeria’s economic landscape if supported by government initiatives, such as accessible loans or improved market conditions. For now, these women continue to forge ahead, demonstrating remarkable resilience and a refusal to be deterred.

News

Waste to Wealth: GTCO Plc Launches Gas Project to Empower Women in Ogun State

by Women Times on March 16, 2025

By Prosper Mene

In a bold move to tackle environmental pollution and uplift underserved communities, GTCO Plc, a leading Nigerian conglomerate, launched an ambitious waste-for-gas project on Saturday, distributing 3,000 gas cylinders to women in Ogun State. The initiative, unveiled in Abeokuta, blends sustainability with economic empowerment, offering a lifeline to women in low-income areas while addressing Nigeria’s waste management challenges.

The project, spearheaded by GTCO’s sustainability arm, transforms household and market waste into clean-burning gas, which is then packaged into cylinders for domestic use. At the launch event, attended by local leaders, environmentalists, and beneficiaries, GTCO officials handed out the first batch of 3,000 cylinders to women from underserved communities, many of whom rely on firewood or kerosene for cooking—a practice linked to health risks and deforestation.

“We’re turning waste into opportunity,” said Segun Agbaje, GTCO’s Group Chief Executive Officer, in a keynote address. “This project not only reduces environmental harm but also empowers women economically by giving them access to cleaner, safer energy. It’s a win for the planet and the people.”

The initiative targets women as primary beneficiaries, recognizing their central role in household energy use and their vulnerability to the health impacts of traditional cooking methods. According to the Nigerian Ministry of Environment, indoor air pollution from biomass fuels claims thousands of lives annually, disproportionately affecting women and children. By providing gas cylinders, GTCO aims to curb these risks while fostering financial independence—some recipients will reportedly sell surplus gas in their communities.

One beneficiary, 42-year-old trader Idayat Adebayo from Ijebu-Ode, beamed with excitement as she received her cylinder. “This will save me money and time,” she said. “No more smoke in my lungs or searching for firewood. I can even make a small business out of it.”

The waste-for-gas model also tackles Ogun State’s mounting waste problem. With urban centers like Abeokuta generating tons of refuse daily, GTCO’s processing plants convert organic waste into biogas, reducing landfill pressure and greenhouse gas emissions. Environmental experts at the event praised the dual impact, though some called for more data on the project’s scalability.

“This is innovative, but we need to know how many plants are operational and how much waste they can handle,” noted Dr. Funmi Adeyemi, an environmental scientist based in Lagos. “If it scales, it could be a game-changer for Nigeria.”

GTCO has not disclosed the project’s full cost or the timeline for future phases, but company representatives hinted at plans to expand nationwide.

Local leaders in Ogun State welcomed the initiative, with the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Motunrayo Adeleye, describing it as “a step toward sustainable development that prioritizes our women.” She added, “We’re eager to partner with GTCO to ensure this reaches every corner of the state.”

For the women of Ogun State, the cylinders represent more than just fuel—they’re a symbol of progress. As the launch concluded, the hum of celebration filled the air, coupled with the promise of cleaner kitchens and brighter futures.

Health

Kebbi State Takes Bold Step: 100 Disabled Women Enrolled in Health Insurance Scheme

by Women Times on March 15, 2025

By Prosper Mene

In a bold move to enhance healthcare access and promote inclusivity, the Kebbi State Government has enrolled 100 women with disabilities into the Kebbi State Contributory Health Management Agency (KECHEMA). The initiative, announced on Saturday, marks a significant stride toward addressing the health disparities faced by one of Nigeria’s most underserved populations.

The enrollment ceremony, held earlier today in Birnin Kebbi, saw state officials and community leaders gather to celebrate the milestone. The 100 beneficiaries, selected from various communities across the state, will now have access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare services through KECHEMA, a state-run insurance program designed to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses.

“This is about dignity and equity,” said a senior official from the Kebbi State Ministry of Health, who spoke on condition of anonymity. “These women have faced barriers to healthcare for too long—physical, financial, and social. Today, we’re breaking down those walls.

The initiative comes at a time when Nigeria grapples with significant healthcare challenges, particularly for people with disabilities. According to the World Health Organization, individuals with disabilities are more likely to experience unmet healthcare needs due to poverty, stigma, and inaccessible facilities. For women, these challenges are often compounded by gender-based inequalities, making Kebbi’s targeted intervention a beacon of hope.

Local observers have hailed the move as a step in the right direction. Amina Suleiman, a disability rights activist based in Kebbi, told reporters, “This isn’t just about insurance; it’s about recognizing these women as equal citizens with rights. We hope this sets a precedent for other states to follow.”

The enrolled women, ranging in age and disability type, expressed gratitude and relief. Fatima Usman, a 34-year-old mother of two who lost her sight five years ago, shared her story: “I’ve struggled to afford treatment for myself and my children. Now, I feel like I have a safety net. It’s a new beginning.”

KECHEMA officials noted that the program covers a wide range of services, including maternal care, routine checkups, and treatment for chronic conditions—services that are critical for women with disabilities who often face higher health risks. The state government has pledged to monitor the initiative’s impact and explore expanding coverage to more vulnerable groups.

While the move has been widely praised, some observers are calling for greater transparency on funding and sustainability. “It’s a commendable start, but we need details on how this will be maintained long-term,” said Dr. Ibrahim Garba, a public health analyst in Sokoto. “The success of this program could inspire national policy if it’s backed by solid planning.