Empowerment - Women Times

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.

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.

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.

News Empowerment

Five Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs Win $50,000 From Standard Chartered Foundation’s Women in Tech Accelerator

by Women Times on October 2, 2026

By Prosper Mene

The Standard Chartered Foundation has announced the winners of its Women in Tech Accelerator in Nigeria, with five women-led businesses sharing $50,000 in grant funding.

The programme was delivered in partnership with Village Capital and local implementing partner Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Pan-Atlantic University. This year’s cohort had 11 ventures, with the top five emerging after a final pitch session before a panel of judges.

Each winner will receive $10,000 to scale her business.

Speaking on the programme, Joke Adu, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing at Standard Chartered Nigeria, said:

“At Standard Chartered, we believe that empowering women entrepreneurs is one of the most effective ways to drive inclusive economic growth. Since launching the Women in Technology Programme in Nigeria in 2019, we have impacted thousands of women, directly trained more than 70 women through our incubator cohorts and provided seed funding to 35 women-led businesses.”

Nneka Okekearu, Director of Enterprise Development Centre, Pan-Atlantic University, added that the accelerator shows what happens when women entrepreneurs get access to skills, mentorship, networks and opportunities.

The 2026 winners are:

1. Jennifer Esiaba – Mariam Grey Pharmacy

An AI-powered telepharmacy providing accessible medication, pharmacist consultations and chronic care support via smartphones, basic phones and USSD.

2. Christine Imoukhuede – Ahavaplan

An AI-powered CRM platform that helps event planners manage clients, events and business operations in one place.

3. Toyosi Badejo-Okusanya – Adaptive Atelier

An accessibility technology company helping businesses create inclusive digital experiences through AI-powered solutions and accessibility auditing.

4. Fara Popoola – Proc360

A platform helping African SMEs trade with confidence through supplier verification, quality control and secure payments.

5. Adejoke Haastrup – Kidsthatcode

An edtech platform equipping children and teens across Africa with coding and digital skills through classes, mentorship and hackathons.

The winners now join a global alumni community of women entrepreneurs that offers peer-to-peer support and access to catalytic funding at lower-than-commercial rates.

The Women in Tech Accelerator has been running in Nigeria since 2020 through funding from the Foundation and Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria. Globally, it operates in 14 Standard Chartered markets across Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the US, and has supported over 4,000 entrepreneurs to date.

Event Empowerment

Her Choice, Her Future, Her Legacy: Project LEAD Set for 7th International Day of the Girl Child Conference

by Women Times on October 2, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Project LEAD will host the 7th edition of its International Day of the Girl Child Annual Conference on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Fantasia Hall, Eko Hotels & Suites, Lagos.

This year’s theme is “Her Choice, Her Future, Her Legacy: Empowering Girls to Dream, Lead, and Build a Legacy of Excellence.”

The conference will bring together 100 senior secondary school girls from 10 local government areas in Lagos State for a day of mentorship, career exploration, leadership development and self-discovery.

In the last six editions, Project LEAD has created a platform where young girls meet accomplished professionals, ask questions, explore career possibilities and see beyond their current realities. This year’s edition will push the conversation further, helping girls understand how the choices they make today shape the women they become tomorrow.

The event will feature a keynote address by the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Lagos State, Mobolaji A. Ogunlende, with Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, Special Adviser on Blue Economy and General Manager of LASWA, as guest speaker.

The panel session, anchored on this year’s theme, will be moderated by Diipo Ayo-Adeusi and will feature Barong Asiodu, Ifeoma Finnih, Olayinka Oyetunji and Ayanfe Vese.

In commemoration of World Mental Health Day, which is also marked on October 10th, there will be a special session titled “Her Mind. Her Choices. Her Future: How to make decisions that protect the woman you are becoming,” facilitated by Yemisi Vese.

The girls will also take part in career breakout sessions themed “Dignity in Labour,” designed to give them practical insight into different career paths. The sessions will be facilitated by professionals from Eko Hotel & Suites including Omebu Vivien Oputa, Banquet Sales Executive; Gbenga Otunuga, Front Office Receptionist; Olatuyi Ayoola Gbenga, Administrative Officer, Learning and Development; and Mariam El-dayem Hassan, Assistant Banquet Coordinator.

The conference will also feature a student debate competition judged by Ajibola Abdulkadir, Kingsley Oko, Stephen Bello and Phil Idokogi. The debate is sponsored by Alitheia Capital and will help the girls build critical thinking, research and public speaking skills.

Speaking on this year’s theme, Uzoamaka Amalu of Project LEAD said:

“True to our commitment to early intervention, we believe empowering girls cannot wait until adulthood. It starts while they are in their formative years and shaping their aspirations. This year is about helping them understand that their choices matter, their voices matter, and they have the power to build an incredible legacy.”

The 7th edition is sponsored by Eko Hotel & Suites with Pandora Global Agency as PR partner.

Media Contact:

Pandora Global Agency Ltd | hello@pandoraagency.co

Project LEAD Communications Team | 07031035989 | projectlead2019@gmail.com

Empowerment Women Empowerment

WISCAR Graduates 71 Women Through Flagship WIN Mentoring Programme, Strengthens Pipeline of Women Leaders

by Women Times on September 4, 2026

By Womentimes

Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR) has graduated 71 women from its flagship WIN-with-WISCAR Mentoring Programme, reaffirming its commitment to developing competent, values-driven female leaders equipped to drive meaningful change across organisations, communities, and the nation.

L-R: WISCAR Advisory Board Member, Boma Alabi, OON, SAN; Founder and Chairperson of WISCAR, Amina Oyagbola; WISCAR WIN 1 Mentee, Lovina Utang; and WISCAR Executive Secretary, Ekemini Akpapan at the WIN – with – WISCAR WIN1&2 Graduation Ceremony recently.

Held at EbonyLife Place, Lagos, the graduation ceremony celebrated the successful completion of the 20 early career women in WIN 1 and 51 mid-career women in WIN 2 mentoring programmes, from diverse sectors including banking and financial services, healthcare, law, technology, oil and gas, aviation, professional and business support services, education, culture and nonprofit development.

The event brought together WISCAR Advisory Board members, mentors, alumni, partners, corporate leaders, and family members to celebrate not only the graduates’ achievements but also WISCAR’s enduring mission of advancing women’s leadership as a catalyst for nation building.

In her address as Founder and Chairperson, Mrs. Amina Oyagbola described the ceremony as a celebration of women who had intentionally chosen growth, leadership, and excellence.

“Today is much more than the presentation of certificates. It is a celebration of courage over comfort, growth over complacency and possibility over limitation. Graduation is not your destination; it is your launchpad. The world needs women who are competent, courageous, compassionate and agile women who will lead with integrity, transform organisations, influence policy and strengthen our nation.”

She urged the graduating mentees to dream boldly, lead with purpose, and use their knowledge, influence, and networks to create lasting impact.

“At WISCAR, our mission has always been to develop women to build a better nation. Dream boldly. Lead courageously. Lift others and together, let us build a better nation—one prepared woman at a time.”

Delivering a goodwill message, Mrs. Funke Amobi, Executive Director, Operations, Stanbic IBTC, GPA Board Chair, and WISCAR Advisory Board Member, congratulated the graduating mentees on reaching an important milestone in their leadership journey. She encouraged them to embrace lifelong learning, remain resilient in the face of challenges, and leverage the knowledge, values, and networks gained through the programme to lead with purpose, create opportunities for others, and contribute meaningfully to nation building.

The ceremony also featured the surprise presentation and announcement of the Amina Oyagbola Education Initiative, through which the graduating WIN 2 cohort recognised and rewarded a deserving secondary school student for outstanding academic performance. The initiative reflects WISCAR’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities and creating meaningful impact beyond its mentoring community while inspiring the next generation of leaders to pay it forward.

In recognition of the invaluable role mentors play in developing future women leaders, the ceremony included a special Mentor Recognition Ceremony, presented by Amina Oyagbola, WISCAR Advisory Board Member, Mrs Boma Alabi, OON, SAN, and WISCAR Executive Secretary, Ekemini Akpakpan, celebrating their unwavering commitment to investing their time, knowledge, and experience in nurturing the graduating mentees.

The graduation ceremony was attended by several distinguished mentors whose continued commitment has been instrumental to the success of the WIN-with-WISCAR Mentoring Programme. They included Kelechi Vera Olawoyin, Boma Alabi, OON, SAN, Rukayat Opoola Adesola, Dr. Florence Adesola Falaiye, Toyin Kekere-Ekun, Stephanie Omobuwajo, Funke Agbor SAN, Mrs. Dada Alamutu, Zansi Adebowale, and Dolapo Agbede, among others, reaffirming WISCAR’s strong network of accomplished professionals dedicated to developing the next generation of women leaders.

Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Queen-Anne Ifekoya, Head, Client Communication (Pension), Stanbic IBTC and WIN 2 Valedictorian, reflected on the programme’s lasting impact.

“The WIN Mentoring Programme has equipped us with more than knowledge; it has given us the confidence, perspective and support system to lead with purpose. As we graduate today, we do so with a renewed commitment to creating impact within our organisations, uplifting others, and contributing meaningfully to the development of our nation.”

Since inception, the organisation has trained over 1,400 women through its Mentoring Programme and other bespoke mentoring initiatives, matching mentees with renowned mentors for quality one-on-one sessions aimed at strengthening leadership capacity, professional competence, and personal growth.

The WIN-with-WISCAR Mentoring Programme remains WISCAR’s flagship leadership development initiative, providing structured mentoring, leadership training, and capacity development for women at different stages of their careers. Through its WIN 1, WIN 2, and WIN 3 streams, the programme continues to build a pipeline of ethical, competent, and transformational women leaders committed to advancing their organisations and sustainable national development.

About WISCAR

Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR) is a Nigerian non-profit organisation focused on empowering and developing professional women to contribute to development and growth in Nigeria and across Africa. Established in 2008, WISCAR has built a reputation for convening a formidable network of focused women who are reshaping the workplace and their organisations. Its mission is to elevate women into impactful roles through mentorship, career development and advocacy, driving gender-equitable policies across sectors, anchored on three focus areas: leadership and capacity building, mentoring and role modelling, and advocacy for gender diversity, inclusivity, equity and parity. Learn more at

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Empowerment

Books for Every Child: Faith Nwani Expands Literacy Initiative Nationwide

by Women Times on June 9, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Faith Nwani is a Nigerian writer, editor, and literacy advocate who founded Book Drive Africa to ensure children across the continent have better access to books and foster a love for reading.

Background and Motivation

Nwani grew up in Ajegunle, Ikorodu (Lagos area), where books provided comfort, expanded her vocabulary, and opened up new possibilities. She often practiced reading aloud during family devotions. This personal experience inspired her to launch Book Drive Africa in her final year as a law student at Obafemi Awolowo University.

The initiative aims to make reading literature accessible, not a luxury—especially for young children. It distributes books, stationery, and creates reading environments while promoting original African literature to combat piracy.

Achievements So Far

First edition (Ile-Ife, 2023): Distributed over 800 books and stationery items to more than 300 children in schools and an orphanage.

The organization has reached children across Nigeria and continues to grow.

Book Drive Africa 2.0 ( June 2026)

This expanded edition targets Lagos, Ibadan, Ile-Ife, and Abuja, in partnership with The Book Haven Foundation (founded by Shalom Shaba). Key elements include:

Establishing reading corners in schools stocked with original African literature (purchased or donated), stationery, and snacks.

Creative writing classes for children.

Introductory sessions on technology and artificial intelligence.

Affirmation cards and framed affirmations to boost children’s self-worth.

The motto is: “Give a child a book, show them the world.”

How to Get Involved

Nwani welcomes partnerships, sponsorships, book donations, and support. Contact: bookdriveafrica@gmail.com.

She is active on social media (e.g., Instagram @fideiiii) and has been featured in outlets like Publishing Perspectives, The Nation, and BellaNaija. She has also moderated events and been longlisted for the Commonwealth Short Story Prize.

Book Drive Africa addresses a critical gap in literacy and educational resources in parts of Africa by combining direct donations with inspiration and skill-building. Initiatives like this can have lasting impacts on comprehension, empathy, and opportunities for children. If you’re interested in supporting or learning more, reaching out via the email above or following her platforms is a great start!

News Empowerment

SWAN Expands Educational Support to Boys’ Schools, Collaborates with NDLEA to Combat Youth Drug Abuse

by Women Times on May 26, 2026

The Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN) has expanded its annual Equipping School Library Project to include boys’ schools across Lagos State. The initiative now combines the donation of books and educational materials with mentorship sessions focused on career development and social vices, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

For the 2026 edition, the beneficiary schools include Boys Academy Senior and Junior Schools, Sura, Obalende; Ajayi Crowther Memorial Senior Grammar School, Bariga; Archdeacon Adelaja Senior High School, Bariga; and Army Cantonment Boys Senior and Junior Secondary Schools, Ojo.

During the outreach, Mrs. Blessing Osakwe-Ogo (JP), SWAN’s National Chairperson, emphasised the Society’s commitment to empowerment and education for both genders. She highlighted the importance of access to quality educational resources for the intellectual growth and future success of young people.

“SWAN believes in knowledge, research, exploration, learning, and continuous improvement. Without knowledge, both students and professionals cannot attain their full potential. This is why equipping school libraries with professional and contemporary books remains one of our core objectives,” she explained.

The initiative aims to empower and inspire both the girl-child and boy-child, foster a reading culture among secondary school pupils, raise awareness about SWAN and the accounting profession, donate books to school libraries, establish SWAN Future Accountants’ Clubs, and organise quiz competitions, among other goals.

Osakwe-Ogo urged students to develop the habit of reading and to utilise their school libraries for research and personal growth, regardless of financial constraints. She also introduced the students to the accounting profession as a versatile and highly sought-after career path offering numerous opportunities for advancement and leadership, outlining pathways to becoming Chartered Accountants.

Encouraging the boys to stay focused on their future, she advised: “Study hard, stay disciplined, and avoid distractions. Prioritise your education, complete your secondary schooling successfully, and pursue higher education to achieve success in life.”

She also called on teachers to maintain supportive, approachable relationships with students to encourage open communication when they face challenges or need guidance.

Mrs. Ronke Akeredolu, Chairperson of the SWAN Equipping School Library Project Committee, noted that since the initiative was revived in 2021, SWAN has positively impacted many young people through book donations, in-house quiz competitions, and the creation of Future Accountants’ Clubs.

Akeredolu praised the successful extension of the programme to boys’ schools and appreciated the dedication of the project committee members.

Beyond academic and career support, the Society addressed the rising concern of drug abuse among youths. During a lecture, Ms. Latifat Fatola, Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics at the NDLEA, warned students of the biological and psychological dangers linked to substance abuse.

“Stay away from drugs and negative peer pressure because the brain is not fully developed until about age 25. Substance abuse affects the frontal lobe responsible for judgment and decision-making. Every choice you make today will affect your future, so live responsibly, maintain good character, and strive to become the best version of yourself,” Fatola advised.

Mrs. Oyebanjo Felicia, Vice Principal of Archdeacon Adelaja Senior High School, expressed gratitude to SWAN for the donation, noting it would motivate students to read more and improve academically. She urged alumni associations and corporate organisations to follow suit.

Mr. Olayinka Adeniji, Vice Principal of Ajayi Crowther Memorial Senior Grammar School, described the initiative as “highly laudable,” adding that SWAN’s support complements government efforts to enhance educational standards.

“We are partners in progress. Whatever SWAN has provided will add value to the resources already available through the government. I believe the mentorship and engagement will positively influence students’ attitudes and outlook,” he said.

Mr. Ogunyemi Kayode, Principal of Boys Academy Senior School, Sura, Obalende, commended SWAN for extending the project to boys’ schools and for tackling the increasing menace of drug abuse among students.

Mr. Sobanke Olalekan, Principal of Boys Academy Junior School, praised the organisation’s support, asserting it would motivate students towards academic excellence.

Mrs. Tunde Idowu and Mrs. Mabo, Principal and Vice Principal of Army Cantonment Boys Senior and Junior Secondary Schools, Ojo, also expressed appreciation for SWAN’s efforts in raising awareness about drug dangers and encouraged the Society to continue the programme.

The event concluded with prizes being awarded to the top three winners of the quiz competitions held across participating schools, alongside the official inauguration and certification of newly established Accounting Clubs — further affirming SWAN’s commitment to nurturing future accounting professionals.

SWAN is the female arm of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, founded in 1978. Its mission is to unite female accountants, mentor young professionals, and provide a robust support network to help women excel both professionally and personally.