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Special Report

CBA Foundation Hosts Conference to Empower Widows in Nigeria

by Women Times on

The Chinwe-Bode Akinwande (CBA) Foundation is set to host a groundbreaking conference titled “Empowering Widows in Nigeria: Breaking the Cycle of Poverty and Vulnerability,” scheduled for October 9, 2025, at Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos. The event aims to shed light on the critical challenges faced by marginalized widows across Nigeria and to foster actionable solutions.

As a registered nonprofit organization, the CBA Foundation remains committed to uplifting underprivileged widows and children by providing hope, protection, and empowerment. Widows from vulnerable communities often face social exclusion, neglect, and systemic injustices. This conference offers a vital platform for dialogue, highlighting these issues and exploring strategies such as skills development, microfinance access, impact investing, and advocacy to promote their socio-economic upliftment.

Chinwe Bode-Akinwande, founder of the CBA Foundation, emphasized the importance of the event: “Widows are disproportionately exploited because of their vulnerability. Our goal is to empower them through strategic partnerships and capacity-building initiatives, amplifying their voices and enhancing their societal standing. This conference will enable stakeholders to share experiences, propose solutions, and commit to actionable steps.”

The event will feature a keynote speech by Amina Oyagbola, founder of Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR), and a plenary session moderated by Hansatu Adegbite, Executive Director of Women in Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ). Attendees will also participate in interactive panels, hear success stories from impactful programs, and be called to action to support widows across Nigeria.

Bringing together representatives from civil society, government, academia, and the private sector, the conference aims to foster collaboration, share best practices, and develop policy recommendations to create a more inclusive environment for widows.

Since its inception in 2015, the CBA Foundation has impacted over ten thousand widows through empowerment and capacity-building initiatives. Its programs have provided health interventions, food aid, business start-up support, clothing, and personalized counseling to over seventeen thousand widows. Additionally, the foundation has assisted more than 100 vulnerable children with tuition and skills training.

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Special Report

Dolly Children Kids Shines at Tunde Onakoya Chess Summer Tournament

by Women Times on

Dolly Children Foundation (DCF) proudly celebrates the success of two of its young beneficiaries, Gideon and Aminat, who secured first and second positions in the Junior Category of the recently concluded Chess in Slums Africa Summer Tournament, hosted by renowned chess master Tunde Onakoya.

The sponsorship of the children was championed by the Board Chairman of DCF, who recognized the potential of introducing chess to underserved children as a tool for critical thinking and empowerment. With this vision, DCF enrolled its students in a 4-week training program, chaperoned by Olubunmi, who even spent her birthday on the road supporting the children’s journey from Magboro to Yaba.

Speaking on the achievement, Adedolapo Osuntuyi, Executive Director of Dolly Children Foundation, expressed immense pride that in just four weeks, children who had never seen a chessboard before rose to become champions. Their victory is a reminder that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. At DCF, we are committed to bridging that gap and giving every child the chance to thrive.”


Remarkably, both children had never played chess before joining the program.
Their journey began only four weeks ago, when they were introduced to the game.

The tournament, powered by Chess in Slums Africa, has not only highlighted the transformative power of chess but also demonstrated how education, strategy, and discipline can inspire a new generation of thinkers and leaders.

 

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Special Report

Three Weddings, $15 Million, One Love: Inside Temi Otedola & Mr Eazi’s Fairytale Trilogy

by Women Times on

Actress and style icon Temi Otedola and Afrobeats superstar Tosin “Mr Eazi” Ajibade have tied the knot in not one, not two, but three spectacular weddings spanning Monaco, Dubai, and Iceland. According to inside sources, the total cost was estimated at $15 million USD. 

From a civil ceremony in Europe’s playground of royalty, to a Yoruba engagement under Dubai’s desert skies, to a fairytale white wedding in Iceland beneath the auroras, the trilogy tells a love story of intimacy, heritage, and sheer spectacle. 

 

Act I – Monaco: A Mother’s Birthday, A Private Beginning 

On May 9, 2025, the couple began their journey at the Marie de Monaco town hall. The date was carefully chosen — it marked what would have been Eazi’s late mother’s 61st birthday, making the moment both poignant and joyful. 

The guest list? Just four people: the couple, Temi’s assistant, and one of Eazi’s friends, who acted as witnesses. 

Temi wore a sharp white Wiederhoeft suit, her makeup kept fresh and minimal by Harold James of L’Oreal. Eazi wore custom Louis Vuitton, inspired by regal tailoring. 

After exchanging vows, the couple dined at the legendary Hôtel de Paris, where Eazi booked a landmark suite overlooking the Monte Carlo Casino. “Monaco was our place of escape,” Temi shared. “It felt right to start there, just us.” 

 

Act II – Dubai: Tradition with a Modern Twist 

On July 5, 2025, the couple honored Yoruba tradition with a vibrant engagement ceremony in Dubai Hills Estate at the Otedola family’s villa — a home Temi once joked was “big enough to host her traditional engagement.” Her father, Femi Otedola, bought the villa years ago, and it ultimately became the stage for her wedding dreams. 

Under 80 guests attended, including Africa’s richest men Aliko Dangote and Abdul Samad Rabiu, as well as leading tech entrepreneurs Shola Akinlade, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, and Chika Nwobi. 

The event was nothing short of a Lagos-meets-Dubai production: 

  • The Alaga Shokoyokoto and Tee A hosted with Yoruba prayers and humor. 
  • Kiza Restaurant flew in Nigerian cuisine. 
  • Temi personally redesigned the villa, including a massive garden tent that took 17 days to build. 

 

The couple wore five different looks across the day, including a custom Zac Posen gown, a dramatic Miss Sohee couture piece, and a standout Lisa Folawiyo design incorporating akwa ocha — a textile from Anambra — in tribute to Eazi’s late mother’s Iseluku heritage. 

Eazi’s traditional ensembles, styled by Jason Rembert, carried his Afro-fusion signature. Guests arrived in coordinated burgundy aso ebi, making the entire scene look like a living runway. 

 

 

The night crescendoed with a live performance by music legend King Sunny Ade & his full band. Later, guests were whisked away to the basement of the family’s lavish second villa in the multi-million-dollar estate for an afterparty that rivaled the main event. Led by DJ Edu (Choplife Soundsystem) and Diplo, complete with food, cocktails, and the groom’s favorite Ghanaian drinks. 

 

 

Act III – Iceland: A Fairytale Under the Northern Lights 

The trilogy’s finale took place on August 8, 2025, in Iceland — a country Temi and Eazi have visited twice a year since 2021. 

At the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral in Reykjavík, just under 80 guests gathered as Pastor Tash Kusi (HTB London) blessed the marriage. 

Temi stunned in a custom Fendi gown with Briony Raymond jewelry, later changing into a House of Giles gown for the reception. Eazi wore Saint Laurent for the ceremony before switching to Alexander McQueen for the dinner. 

The reception at Kleif Farm nearly didn’t happen. Just four days before the wedding, a windstorm tore the roof and side panels off the massive glass tent built for the occasion. The couple chartered a cargo plane to fly in replacement materials, and with double the manpower, the tent was rebuilt in 48 hours. 

The result was spectacular: an “ice and fire” theme designed by Temi herself, with an Icelandic-inspired menu and cocktail hour. 

The entertainment was unforgettable: 

  • French pianist Sofiane Pamart performed during dinner. 
  • The night’s secret? John Legend appeared, performing live during Temi’s father–daughter dance and her first dance with Eazi. 

The reception ended at 1 a.m., but the couple wasn’t finished. At the Edition Hotel, they opened Club TT (Tosin & Temi), where Choplife Soundsystem played until 4:30 a.m. Temi wore a shimmering Ludovic de Saint Sernin ensemble while Eazi danced in a Louis Vuitton runway vest.  

The weekend closed with a farewell at the Hamsvik Hot Springs, where guests swam beneath the stars before the night ended with a rare display of the auroras, painting the sky in green and purple. 

 

The Price of Love 

According to inside sources, the total cost was estimated at between $15 million USD. But for Temi and Eazi, it wasn’t about extravagance,  it was about meaning. 

 

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Special Report

From Consumption To Production: Unlocking Nigeria’s Potential

by Women Times on

By Nancy Nnadi, Lead Coach, The Nancy Nnadi Company (TNNC)

As the global economy evolves, one truth has become undeniable: long-term economic growth is not built on trading and importing but on local production and value creation. For Nigeria and indeed for much of Africa this truth is no longer just an observation; it is a matter of urgency and survival.

Today, Nigeria remains largely a consumption-based economy. We import most of what we eat, wear, and use from food to fashion, homecare to technology. While this has created opportunities for traders, it has also made us dangerously vulnerable to inflation, unemployment, and foreign exchange instability.

It is time for a national shift from consumption to production. For me, this is more than an economic strategy, it is a calling, a burden I carry to raise a generation of entrepreneurs who will build, innovate, and create lasting value within our borders.

Trading may circulate money but it is production that creates wealth. Nations that manufacture, process, and add value to their resources are the ones that grow sustainably, employ their people, and stabilize their economies. We must stop glorifying imported goods while neglecting our own innovations; we must build a culture that values creating and producing as much as buying and reselling. True development begins when we produce what we consume.

Opportunities abound in Nigeria’s production and manufacturing value chain, from farming that generates raw materials to packaging and distribution that connect products with markets to branding and marketing that help local goods compete globally, the possibilities are vast.

There is room for those who supply raw materials, those who handle logistics, those who create packaging, and those who provide professional services such as accounting, legal or research and development support. Even regulatory compliance guiding businesses through NAFDAC, SON, and export standards offers untapped potential.

The benefits of embracing local production are transformational. Manufacturing drives job creation across multiple sectors, from agriculture to transport to retail. Producing locally eases pressure on our foreign exchange reserves, boosts our GDP, empowers our youth with skills and livelihoods, and helps us retain capital within our borders to build long-term prosperity.

However, this transformation will not happen by chance. It will require government investment in infrastructure, energy, and policies that make local manufacturing viable. The private sector must be willing to prioritize long-term production over quick trade gains. Financial institutions must step up with accessible loans and support for manufacturing and agro-processing. Most importantly, Nigerians themselves must shift from a hustle mentality to building sustainable, value-driven enterprises.

To help spark this change, The Nancy Nnadi Company (TNNC) is hosting the first-ever Production & Manufacturing Business Summit 2025 on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Admiralty Hall, Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos. Themed “Moving from Consumption to Production – Unlocking Nigeria’s Potential,” the summit will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders for a day of learning, networking, and collaboration.

Through keynote sessions, expert panels, and strategic mentorship, we will equip participants with the tools and strategies to start and scale production-based businesses, whether in food, beauty, health, or technology. This summit is free to attend, but registration is compulsory, and it promises to be a catalyst for Nigeria’s next economic chapter.

Nigeria can no longer afford to be a nation that only consumes what others produce. If we want a stable currency, thriving industries, empowered youth, and a future worth fighting for, we must commit to becoming a nation of producers. Let us stop waiting for help. Let us build.

To rise, we must create, not just consume.
To prosper, we must produce, not just trade.
To transform, we must empower entrepreneurs to lead.
The journey begins now. What can you produce?

Nancy Nnadi
Lead Coach, The Nancy Nnadi Company (TNNC)

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Special Report

Lush Hair Nigeria’s Warri Initiative Revives Local Stylist’s Dream

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Lush Hair Nigeria, one of the country’s leading beauty brands, has launched an inspiring CSR initiative aimed at empowering local hairstylists and uplifting communities—beginning with a deeply moving story from Warri, Delta State.

The initiative was sparked during a recent visit to Warri by Lush Hair’s Brand Ambassador, the celebrated comedian and advocate Real Warri Pikin. While reconnecting with her roots in her former neighborhood, she crossed paths with a familiar figure from her childhood—Aunty Rita, the hairstylist who had once styled her hair as a little girl.

It was a bittersweet reunion. Real Warri Pikin found that Aunty Rita’s salon, once lively and full of promise, had fallen into disrepair. The business was struggling, the shop was in poor condition, and she lacked access to modern tools and training. Deeply touched, Real Warri Pikin reached out to Lush Hair Nigeria for support.

In response, the Lush Hair team transformed Aunty Rita’s salon into a fully refurbished, ultra-modern studio, equipped with state-of-the-art tools, stylish branding, and a welcoming environment for customers. But the makeover wasn’t just physical—it was professional and personal too.

Through the Lush Hair Professional School, Aunty Rita was flown to Lagos, where she received comprehensive training in the latest hairstyling techniques, customer service, and salon business management. This experience equipped her not only with technical skills but also with a renewed sense of purpose and confidence to relaunch her career with pride.

According to Vivian Obiano, Marketing Manager at Lush Hair Nigeria:

“This is more than a salon upgrade—it’s a symbol of who we are as a brand. Lush Hair stands for empowerment, inclusion, and transformation. We are deeply committed to inspiring confidence in every woman, regardless of her background, location, or journey. We believe beauty is for everyone, and we do not discriminate.”
This Warri-based transformation marks the first of many. Lush Hair Nigeria is committed to extending this initiative across the country, identifying grassroots stylists and salon owners who deserve recognition and support to grow.

“Warri is our first stop, but not our last,” Vivian adds. “We want to celebrate and invest in the everyday women and men who make beauty possible. Where next from here? We’re ready to find out—with the support of our community.”
At its heart, this initiative is about restoring dignity, creating opportunity, and showcasing the power of connection. By shining a light on small businesses and the individuals behind them, Lush Hair Nigeria is setting a new standard for what corporate responsibility should look like—inclusive, impactful, and deeply human.

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Special Report

Empowering Women at Work: How Union Bank’s Family-Friendly Revolution Is Setting New Standards

by Women Times on

Union Bank of Nigeria stands at the forefront of the nation’s financial sector, leading the charge in promoting gender inclusivity and empowering women.

With a rich legacy of innovation and dedication, the Bank is actively creating a more equitable and supportive environment for women, both within its own workforce and across the wider Nigerian community.

Recently honoured as the ‘Family-Friendly Bank of the Year’ by The New Telegraph, Union Bank is raising the bar with progressive policies for customers and employees alike.

Through its Alpher initiative, the Bank is investing in the future of female students, entrepreneurs, and professionals throughout Nigeria.

Alpher offers bespoke financial services, career and business development opportunities, and exclusive lifestyle benefits designed to help women thrive.

Union Bank’s strategic collaborations, such as its sponsorship of the Nigerian British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) Women and Youth Entrepreneurship Development Centre (WYEDC) programme, have enabled numerous entrepreneurs to graduate, access vital training, and secure grant opportunities.

Within its own ranks, Union Bank set a new benchmark with a five-month fully paid maternity leave, complemented by the option to take annual leave.

This policy, aligned with the United Nations SDG 3: ‘Good Health and Well-Being’, ensures that employees have the time and support they need to recover and bond with their families.

The Bank’s internal women’s network, WeHub (Women Empowerment Hub), regularly hosts insightful events and discussions focused on bridging the digital gender divide and advancing the careers of female employees.

Demonstrating further commitment to working parents, Union Bank has established a state-of-the-art Crèche at its Head Office in Marina, Lagos Island.

Equipped with lactation rooms and family-friendly facilities, this initiative directly supports SDG 5: ‘Gender Equality’, enabling women to balance their professional and family responsibilities in a truly inclusive workplace.

Union Bank’s comprehensive approach to gender inclusivity and empowerment solidifies its status as an industry leader, fostering a supportive internal environment while championing the advancement of women across multiple sectors.

Be part of this journey towards a more equitable and prosperous Nigeria; choose Union Bank, where empowerment and progress go hand in hand.

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Special Report

EduFuture Conference 2025 Set to Revolutionize Education Through Innovation as Stakeholders Gather

by Women Times on

The stage is set for the highly anticipated second edition of the groundbreaking Edufuture Conference 2025, a premier gathering of Africa’s brightest minds in education, technology, and policy-making. The conference will be held at Vibranium Valley, 42 Local Airport Road, Ikeja, Lagos, commencing at 10 AM on July 10, 2025, bringing together policymakers, EdTech pioneers, educators, investors, and grassroots leaders to shape the future of learning on the continent.

Under the theme “Innovating for Equity: Rethinking Education for a Changing World”, this year’s edition, convened by Adedolapo Osuntuyi, Founder of Dolly Children Foundation, promises to be a pivotal moment for education reform in Africa. With a focus on policy innovation, digital learning, and community-driven solutions, the conference will foster dynamic discussions on key themes including education policy & governance, EdTech & digital learning, social impact & education entrepreneurship, future of work & 21st-century skills, and grassroots innovation & community engagement.

Dr. Adétọlá Ariyíkẹ́ Salau, Special Adviser to the Governor of Kwara State on Education, Policy Formulation and Human Capital Development will deliver the keynote address, outlining actionable strategies for transforming Africa’s education landscape.

The sessions will be expertly moderated by Ngunan Gertrude Fwaodo, Project Manager /Analyst /Educator, ensuring insightful and engaging discourse.

Distinguished Speakers & Thought Leaders
The event boasts an exceptional lineup of speakers, including:

Tobiloba Ajayi (Chief Responsibility Officer, The Let Cerebral Palsy Kids Learn Foundation)

Bosede Ogidan (Programs Director, Teach for Nigeria)

Bimpe Femi-Oyewo (Founder & CEO, Edward Consulting)

Amb. Isaac Success Omoyele (Child Advocate & Social Activist)

Toyin Olanrewaju (Executive Director, Gamaliel & Susan Onosode Foundation)

Obasanjo Fajemirokun (Founder & ED, Brace-Up The Young)

Temidayo Musa (Head, Operations & Programs, Civic Hive)

Temitope Ifegbesan (Coordinator, Leading and Learning Programme, Alforeducation, African Leadership Academy)

Special Announcement: Introducing StratED Futures
Attendees will get an exclusive first look at StratED Futures, a new social enterprise dedicated to driving systemic change in education through policy innovation and impact-led consulting. While full details will be unveiled later, EduFuture 2025 offers a rare sneak peek into this visionary initiative.

The conference is a must-attend for government officials, policymakers, EdTech innovators, entrepreneurs, teachers, curriculum developers, CSR leaders, investors, NGOs, and development practitioners.

Secure a spot today by registering at http://dollychildrenfoundation.org/efc2025

EduFuture Conference 2025 isn’t just an event—it’s a movement. Join the conversation and be part of Africa’s education revolution.

About Dolly Children Foundation
Dolly Children Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to advancing quality education and empowering young learners across Africa through innovative programs and advocacy.

 

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Special Report

ICN Becomes CICN: A Historic Milestone for Counseling and Mental Health in Nigeria and Africa

by Women Times on

The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria (ICN) has officially transitioned to the Chartered Institute of Counseling in Nigeria (CICN), marking a significant milestone for the counseling and mental health profession across Nigeria and Africa.

The historic announcement was made during a press conference held in Lagos over the weekend, signifying the institute’s enhanced maturity, credibility, and national relevance.

This transformation is not merely symbolic; it represents a profound shift in authority, capacity, and responsibility for the institute. The CICN now stands as a chartered body, recognized, trusted, and empowered to lead the future of counseling and mental health.

Dr. Tolulope Oko-Igaire, President of CICN, articulated the profound significance of this moment during the ceremony: “Today is not just a day of celebration; it is a day of deep significance. It is the day history shifts, purpose evolves, and legacy expands. With full hearts and bold conviction, we officially transition from the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria to the Chartered Institute of Counseling in Nigeria, CICN.”

She emphasized the foundational belief that “emotional and mental health is the foundation of every healthy society,” stating that to rise as a people, healing must be “properly, professionally, and purposefully.” Dr. Oko-Igaire added that to be chartered means “to be officially recognized, trusted, and empowered to uphold the highest standards in counseling and mental health. It means we are now a national benchmark, a professional body with the mandate to regulate, train, guide, and inspire.” In line with this new chapter, the CICN also unveiled its new slogan: “Empowering Minds, Unlocking Professionalism.”

Dr. Oko-Igaire explained, “Because this is what we do, we empower minds to heal, grow, and lead. And we unlock professionalism in a field that for too long has been underappreciated, underregulated, and underdeveloped.” Addressing students and alumni, she encouraged them to “Stand tall. Speak boldly. Lead with confidence,” as their “certificates, practice, and impact now bear the seal of a chartered institution.”

Dr. Kevin Donnelly, Chairman of the Advisory Board, underscored the institute’s evolution and future role, stating, “This change is not merely symbolic. It reflects the maturity, credibility, and national relevance that the institute has achieved. CICN now stands as a chartered body recognized, trusted, and empowered to lead the future of counseling and mental health in Nigeria, across Africa, and beyond.”

He highlighted that the new charter status is “not a reward,” but “a responsibility to lead, to uphold standards, and to speak boldly for the importance of mental health and emotional well-being in our society.” Dr. Donnelly affirmed that the CICN “now stands as a standard bearer for quality education in counseling and psychotherapy, as a platform for certification and regulation in a field that urgently needs structure, as a voice of advocacy for emotional health in schools, families, workplaces, and governments, and as a home for anyone who desires to pursue this noble profession with dignity, competence, and purpose.”

Mr. Olaitan Olagoke, Registrar of CICN, emphasized the broadened scope and commitment of the institute. “We are rebranding. We are redefining. We are also reaffirming our commitment—transitioning from ICN to CICN is a big deal,” he stated. Mr. Olagoke further explained the institute’s expanded global reach, noting, “We are spreading our tentacles. We were international before; we are becoming more international. We are gaining more global recognition in terms of research, professionalism, and acknowledgment.”

Mrs. Ogechi Okoye, an esteemed alumnus of CICN and a practicing counselor, shared her personal journey and excitement about the change. She described her experience with the institute as “more than an extraordinary experience,” highlighting how “the details of the curriculum, the relationships, and the bonds I still have with my fellow students, as well as the faculty and the institute as a whole, continue to guide me through my career as a professional counselor. It has been a tremendous experience.”

She expressed her pride, stating, “I am really grateful and super proud that we are now Chartered,” and heartily recommended the institute, saying, “I encourage everyone in your healing journey—if you want to expand your skill sets, even if you want to become a counselor yourself, consider CICN.”

 

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Special Report

Bloom Weekend 2025: Celebrating Growth, Strength, and New Possibilities at the Empowerment Event

by Women Times on

At the Stanbic IBTC Bloom Weekend 2025 which was themed: “Bloom into More”, thousands of female entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders gathered to forge connections, sharpen their business and leadership skills, and unlock new opportunities for growth and success.

 

Day-one kicked off with an energetic media parley at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Friday, 20 June 2025 and was then followed by a robust Entrepreneurial Seminar hosted by the Enterprise Data Centre of Pan Atlantic University. The SME training was well attended with over 1000 participants joining both physically and online, across various business sectors. The program modules included ‘Introduction to Entrepreneurship’, ‘Building a Scalable Business Model’, ‘Access to Finance and Investment Readiness’, and ‘Digital Marketing and Selling Skills’.

 

Day-two commenced with a Yoga-session led by Morolake Yasmin Olomu followed by Ladies At The Table Empowerment Series (LATTES), a hybrid event hosted by Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers. this featured a powerful keynote message by Patience Torlowei, founder of Torlowei, a Nigerian fashion house known for its luxury ready-to-wear clothing and the creator of the “Esther Dress, currently owned by the National Museum of African Art (NMAA) in Washington, D.C.

 

A carefully-selected and accomplished line-up of women leaders and creators then came together on a panel to discuss the topic “Seasons of Growth: Navigating Purpose, Prosperity, and Personal Power at Every Stage of life”. The panelists were Eunice Showunmi-Adeyemi, Chief Creative Director, Q21 Solutions Limited, Oler Oladele, Chartered Financial Analyst, Dr. Adrienne Tikolo, Director of Dyslexia Nigeria, Aderinsola Adeyemi “DictionwithDerin”, Diction Instructor and Content Creator, and Edidiong Akan, Head, Compliance, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers. 

 

Another notable highlight were the Bloom weekend Masterclasses. Ore Lawani, Founder Arami Essentials, took the stage to speak on “Building a business in Nigeria from the Ground up” while Aderinsola Adeyemi, “DictionwithDerin”, delivered a session on “Command the Room: Building Executive Presence Through Communication”. This year’s Bloom Weekend was indeed packed with insights and instructive guidance for every woman in every season, whether in carrier or business.

 

The Bloom Weekend Hub, a buzzing marketplace, featured a stunning array of activities from the ‘Trade Fair’ showcasing exhibitions from female-owned business owners in food; feminine care products such as makeup, skincare, haircare, fashion; children’s goods and so on, to the ‘Village Market’ featuring exhibitions of raw food stuff by female business owners, to the ‘Wellness and Relaxation’ space for women to get massages, henna, pedicures and so on.

 

This year’s event was all-inclusive with a ‘Blue kid’s corner’ filled with games and activities where parents could drop off their children to be minded while they enjoyed the curated Bloom Weekend activities. Meanwhile, Stanbic IBTC’s on-site advisory booths offered personalised financial consultations, helping women chart clearer paths toward financial independence.

 

In her remarks during the opening media parley, Bunmi Dayo-Olagunju, Deputy Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Bank, reaffirmed Stanbic IBTC’s long-term commitment to gender equity, expressed openness to continued dialogue and collaboration with the media. She said, “Today, I encourage the journalists present here to explore the stories behind the numbers. Please use your platforms to spotlight female-led businesses and inspire a ripple effect of growth and development”.

 

Similarly, while delivering her speech Olajumoke Bello, Head Enterprise, Stanbic IBTC Bank, shared the vision behind Bloom Weekend as a celebration and platform for empowering women in business which aligns with Stanbic IBTC’s broader commitment to inclusive growth and economic empowerment. she said, “Bloom Weekend 2025 showcases our commitment to empowering women because we believe that when you give women the right tools, networks, and platforms, they don’t just bloom, they change the world around them.”

 

Omolara Osunsoko, Executive Director Operations, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, emphasised in her introductory speech on LATTES, that “through LATTES 1.0 to 4.0, we have listened, learned, and grown with thousands of women across Nigeria. We not only demystified pensions, we offered a safe space for women to have real conversations about money, ambition, motherhood and identity”.

 

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Many described Bloom Weekend as “life-changing”, “transformative”, and “the boost they needed to push and Bloom into More.”

 

Through powerful storytelling, actionable mentorship, and intentional community-building, Bloom Weekend 2025 has firmly established itself as an event and a cornerstone movement for women’s leadership, career building, and entrepreneurial growth in Nigeria.

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Special Report

LG Electronics Sets the Mood with Tech That Cools and Colours That Pop

by Women Times on

From Food to Mood, Upgrade Everything with Big Vibes, Bright Colors, and Cool Moods

 

As the nation witness a year buzzing with innovation and rising aspirations, LG Electronics is turning up the cool—redefining home living with refrigerators that are smarter, greener, and built to match the rhythm of the modern Nigerian lifestyle.

The Nigerian refrigerator market is set to witness a dramatic surge, projected to grow from USD 814.2 million in 2023 to USD 1,777.8 million by 2029, representing a robust 13.9% CAGR, according to a report by StrategyHelix. Urbanization, a rising middle class, and growing disposable incomes are key drivers of this expansion. Despite this growth, average revenue per household is forecasted at just USD 46.27 in 2025, indicating that while demand is growing, affordability remains a central concern for most families.

In response to market realities, LG refrigerators are designed with three core values in mind: Smart Affordability, Enduring Reliability, and Eco-Smart Efficiency. These values resonate strongly with the Nigerian consumer, ensuring that LG continues to remain a top choice in households across the nation.

From budget-friendly single-door fridges to high-tech smart models, LG offers a wide range of options that meet everyday needs without compromising on quality or innovation.

As part of our vision for 2025, LG is set to unveil new-generation refrigerators equipped with next-level features that are already receiving positive reviews in international markets. Consumers can look forward to: Sleek, modern designs with enhanced storage solutions; Advanced cooling technologies to preserve freshness longer and Eco-conscious engineering that aligns with global sustainability goals.

This month, LG Electronics is set to launch a new line of cutting-edge refrigerators in Nigeria, combining smart technology, modern design, and energy efficiency to meet the evolving needs of Nigerian households. The 2025 refrigerator lineup introduces several advanced models designed with the modern Nigerian household in mind. Equipped with innovative features, some 2025 models include Cool Pack technology, which helps keep food fresh for hours during power outages, while others feature Ice-at-Door functionality for quick and convenient access to ice without opening the main compartment. Together, these advancements deliver unmatched convenience and practicality for the modern Nigerian kitchen.

“The 2025 LG refrigerator lineup represents a bold leap into the future of home living, said Mr. Oktai Kim, General Manager, Home Solutions, LG Electronics Nigeria. With the LG MoodUP™ refrigerator leading the way, we are merging cutting-edge innovation with lifestyle expression—bringing color, intelligence, and energy efficiency into the heart of every Nigerian home. This is more than refrigeration; it’s a dynamic experience designed to reflect how today’s consumers live, connect, and create.”

Refrigeration Meets Rhythm: The LG MoodUP™ Refrigerator Arrives in Style

Introducing the LG MoodUP™ Refrigerator, a revolutionary fusion of style, smart innovation, and sensory experience that goes beyond cooling. Designed for the modern Nigerian home, this refrigerator doesn’t just store food, it sets the mood.

At first glance, it’s a fridge. But a closer look reveals something extraordinary: color-changing LED panels, Bluetooth speaker integration, and AI-driven smart features that respond to your lifestyle. The LG MoodUP™ refrigerator is part of LG’s high-end InstaView range but takes personalization to an entirely new level, making it a centerpiece of modern kitchens.

In a fast-paced, culturally rich country like Nigeria where homes are hubs of celebration, family, and innovation, the MoodUP™ refrigerator delivers more than functionality: The Dynamic LED color panels let you choose from over 190,000 combinations. Whether you’re hosting friends, cooking dinner, or simply unwinding, the fridge’s vibrant lighting adapts to match your mood or playlist. Built-in Bluetooth speakers allow you to connect your phone and enjoy your favorite afrobeats, highlife, gospel, or jazz right from your kitchen. And while it makes a bold style statement, the MoodUP™ refrigerator is also Energy Star certified, delivering smart cooling with low power consumption, an essential feature for Nigerian households managing energy usage.

“We believe the LG MoodUP™ speaks to the Nigerian spirit—colorful, expressive, bold, and connected,” continued Mr. Kim. “It’s more than a kitchen appliance. It’s part of how Nigerians live, celebrate, and innovate.”

The LG MoodUP™ refrigerator marks a bold evolution in appliance design, blending mood, music, and modern cooling in one. As LG continues to innovate around consumer needs, Nigerian households can now embrace appliances that are just as vibrant and dynamic as the lives they support.

Whether you want your fridge to match your party or your personality, the LG MoodUP™ is here to set the tone.

Visit any Fouani Showroom nationwide to see LG’s latest refrigerators and for more information, kindly visit; https://www.lg.com/africa/refrigerators

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