The Nation Newspaper

Category: New Woman

  • Lagos records 11,127 emergency incidents, 15m calls in 11 months — LSCCC

    Lagos records 11,127 emergency incidents, 15m calls in 11 months — LSCCC

    The Lagos State Command and Control Center (LSCCC) says it recorded a total of 11,127 emergency incidents between January and November this year, while receiving over 15 million calls through its emergency toll-free line.

    The General Manager of the LSCCC, Femi Giwa, disclosed this during a press briefing on the activities of the centre in the outgoing year.

    Giwa described the LSCCC as the agency mandated to coordinate emergency and disaster response across the state, ensuring the efficient deployment, tracking and demobilisation of resources for effective incident management.

    According to him, the centre serves as the hub for real-time monitoring, communication and dispatch of emergency services across Lagos, handling incidents ranging from medical emergencies and road accidents to fire outbreaks, security-related cases and other emergencies during the period under review.

    He added that a breakdown of the data showed medical emergencies accounted for the highest number of reported cases, with 2,192 incidents recorded within the period.

    “This was closely followed by road accidents, comprising broken-down vehicles and fallen or broken containers, with a total of 2,188 incidents.

    Fire-related incidents, including fire outbreaks and vehicle fires, were recorded 1,922 times, while civil disturbances, such as fights and riots, accounted for 732 incidents

    Robbery-related incidents, including household theft, were recorded 410 times, while infrastructure-related incidents, such as PHCN pole sparks and pipeline vandalism, were recorded 334 times.

    In addition, the Centre recorded 57 cases of building collapse, 323 incidents of violence against persons, and 40 cases of domestic violence during the period under review”, he added.

    He assured Lagosians of aggressive sensitization and awareness campaigns over emergency management in the coming year with warnings against hoax and nuisance calls which recorded over ten million this year.

    “We will continue to do our best as Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu has graciously approved many project to bring the Command and Control Center to global standards, you can see the many renovations going on at the center, this is to make the place more conducive to serve the people of Lagos more efficiently and effectively.”

    The General Manager urged residents to celebrate in modesty, avoid actions that can trigger emergency and be safety conscious at times, noting that the Sanwo-olu’s administration has invested hugely to ensure safety of lives and property in Lagos.

    An analysis of incidents by Local Government Areas showed that Alimosho Local Government Area recorded the highest number of emergency incidents, with 1,507 cases, closely followed by Eti-Osa Local Government Area with 1,283 incidents. Ikeja Local Government Area recorded 1,169 incidents ranking third.

    Other LGAs recorded the following numbers of incidents: Oshodi-Isolo with 908, Kosofe with 874, Ikorodu with 711, Surulere with 519, and Lagos Island with 495 incidents.

    Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area recorded 482 incidents, Lagos Mainland recorded 457, Ibeju-Lekki had 447, Agege recorded 379, Mushin recorded 341, Ojo had 289, Shomolu recorded 274, and Ifako-Ijaiye recorded 269 incidents.

    Badagry Local Government Area recorded 237 incidents, Apapa had 189, Epe recorded 159, while Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area recorded the lowest number of incidents, with 146 cases during the period under review.

  • Electoral Act: Reps approve 10-year jail term, N75m fine for forgery of election documents

    Electoral Act: Reps approve 10-year jail term, N75m fine for forgery of election documents

    The House of Representatives on Thursday approved a 10-year jail term or a fine of N75 million for anyone found guilty of forging nomination papers or result forms, or willfully defacing or destroying election-related documents.

    The decision followed the House’s consideration of amendments to the 2022 Electoral Act, during which lawmakers approved an upward review of the fine from N50 million. 

    The House also approved a fine of N5 million for the improper use of a voter’s card.

    However, the lawmakers rejected a recommendation seeking to impose a two-year jail term on individuals who financially or materially induce delegates to influence the outcome of party primaries, congresses or conventions. Members argued that such a provision could be abused by political opponents to witch-hunt candidates.

    The House also deleted an existing provision that mandates the cancellation of votes and the conduct of a fresh election in polling units where over-voting is established.

    Instead, it approved a new provision stipulating that where over-voting occurs, the excess votes should be deducted from the scores of all candidates, while the presiding officer at the affected polling unit should be prosecuted.

    Addressing newsmen after the plenary, Chairman of the House Committee non Electoral Matters, Adebayo Balogun said the Electoral Bill 2025 was originally introduced as a Bill for an Act to repeal the Electoral Act 2022 and enact a new Electoral Act for Nigeria. 

    He said, “This approach was informed by our collective desire to build on the gains of recent elections and to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities within our electoral system. The Committee, guided by stakeholder engagements, public hearings, and expert submissions, initially proposed far-reaching reforms intended to modernize and strengthen our electoral framework.

    “Among the reforms canvassed were provisions on early voting, inmate voting, the replacement of the Permanent Voters’ Card with more technology-driven voter accreditation mechanisms, adjustments to electoral timelines, and other innovations that, if adopted, would have significantly altered the structure, philosophy, and core provisions of the Electoral Act 2022.

    “However, as the legislative process progressed, particularly during the sittings of the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters, it became evident that many of these far-reaching proposals did not command the support of the majority of members across the two Chambers, nor did they enjoy sufficient consensus among key stakeholders.

    “In legislative practice, a repeal of an existing law and enactment of a new law is appropriate where the proposed changes fundamentally transform the identity of the principal Act. 

    “In this instance, because several of the proposed provisions such as Early Voting, Inmate Voting, Removal of the Permanent Voters Card (PVC), Election Timelines amongst others, that would have occasioned such a fundamental transformation were not approved at the committee stage, the House, sitting as a Committee of the Whole during the consideration of the report, wisely resolved that it would be more appropriate to proceed by way of amendment rather than outright repeal of the Electoral Act 2022.

    “This decision is not a setback to the electoral reform. Rather, it reflects the maturity of our democracy and the responsibility of Parliament to legislate in a manner that is inclusive, balanced, and anchored on broad agreement.

    “Courts, including Nigerian courts following common law principles, consistently hold that what matters is the effect of the legislation, not its label.

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    “You will notice that despite the rigorous work done by the Electoral Committee, there were also very meaningful amendments introduced by Members of the House during the consideration of the report in the Committee of the Whole, indicating a robust debate and reflection of the immense importance attached to the Electoral Bill 2025 by the House of Representatives.

    “The Electoral Act 2022 remains one of the most progressive electoral laws in our history, and the amendments proposed under the Electoral Bill 2025 are designed to consolidate its strengths, address observed gaps, and improve implementation, without undermining the stability of the existing legal framework.

    “I want to assure Nigerians that the House Committee on Electoral Matters has conducted this process with utmost transparency and diligence. We engaged widely with the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies, civil society organizations, political parties, professional bodies, development partners, and citizens across the country. The outcome before the House today is a product of those engagements and reflects the realities of consensus-building in a democratic legislature.

    “While some innovative proposals could not be accommodated at this stage, they remain part of our national discourse on electoral reform. As our democracy evolves and wider consensus is achieved, such ideas can be revisited in the future through further legislative intervention.

    “As we have concluded consideration of this report, I reaffirm the commitment of the House of Representatives, and indeed the National Assembly, to credible elections, democratic stability, and the continuous improvement of our electoral laws. Our goal remains clear: to ensure that every election in Nigeria is transparent, inclusive, secure, and truly reflective of the will of the Nigerian people.

  • ‘Art trainees should tell the Ogoni story’

    ‘Art trainees should tell the Ogoni story’

    Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, project coordinator of Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has urged trained graduating youths of creative arts in University of Port Harcourt to tell the Ogoni story to the world through creativity.

    The youth completed a four-month training in script writing, film production, make-up, and are beneficiaries of HYPREP programme aimed at giving them skills in creative arts and entertainment

    Prof Zabbey said the training is HYPREP’s effort to create alternative livelihood for Ogoni youths and women as a strategy in its livelihood restoration intervention.

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    The coordinator, in a statement, noted that the goal is to reach every part of Ogoni community and ensure no group or talent pool is left behind. He said the training is to empower young people who aspire to make their mark in creative arts and entertainment”.

    Commending the trainees for producing four short films, one of which was premiered at the ceremony- Dirty Festival, he said the training is their springboard into the industry to become entrepreneurs, and help themselves and communities. The others are Open Pain, Bomu and Green War.

    He enjoined them to promote peace, and environmental sustainability, and to highlight progress in implementing recommendations of the UNEP Report. Trainees were later presented with certificate of participation.

  • Being a woman means embracing every aspect of femininity

    Being a woman means embracing every aspect of femininity

    If passion was a cloth, woman lawyer Lynda Alphaeus wears her passion for Intellectual Property, proudly. Mrs Alphaeus, who currently works with the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) as a Director and the Head of the Lagos office, believes women’s femininity can play a vital role in the antipiracy fight. Her knowledge of copyright issues has earned her the privilege of appearing on various platforms nationally and internationally. In this interview with EVELYN OSAGIE, she speaks on her passion and more

    Being a woman

    Being a woman to me means recognising every aspect of femininity and embracing them wholeheartedly, this includes recognising your role as a wife, mother, mentor, caregiver, teacher, role model; friend, confidant and fulfilling these roles without failing in any one. To be a woman is to be a worthy partner and friend to your husband, a friend, teacher, mentor, confidant to your children and a role model and good example to others around you.

    Growing up that impacted the woman I  became

    Growing up for me was a very good experience which to a large extent has shaped me into the woman I am today. I grew up as the last child in a large family. I was pampered but not spoiled. My father was a renowned teacher who spent about 50 years of his life teaching because after he retired he was engaged by the then Bendel State Government to continue teaching on contract. My mother was a strict disciplinarian but because of my position in the family I was well loved and cared for. My father will constantly say to us that the best legacy he will leave for us was a good education and that he was ready to train everyone of us as long as we’re ready to go to school. With his understanding of the importance of education, my father encouraged us to pursue education. So, from a very young age, I made up my mind to pursue good education and read the best course available. Being a brilliant Arts student and a lover of literature, I chose to read Law because I considered it the best course available to me. My siblings also all grew up appreciating the importance of education; all my siblings are university graduates.

     My passion

    I am very passionate about raising the next generation of anti-piracy advocates, especially through the Commission’s schools’ projects.  I am also passionate about learning, teaching and impacting knowledge. I am constantly learning new skills and impacting knowledge on others. This has led me to complete several WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organisation) Distant Courses and HarvardX Copyright Course. I also love farming. I rear chickens and turkeys for home consumption

    Biggest challenge for career women

    In my opinion, one of the biggest challenges that career women face is balancing professional ambition with family responsibilities—particularly when both demand your full attention, energy, and emotional presence. As a lawyer, my career is intense, requiring long hours, strategic thinking, and a high level of dedication. At the same time, being a wife and mother brings its own set of expectations, emotional labor, and fulfillment that cannot be delegated or postponed. There were moments I questioned whether I could do justice to both roles without compromising one for the other. But I’ve learned that the key isn’t in achieving a perfect balance every day—it’s in being intentional about succeeding and taking it one day at a time. It also helps to build a support system, setting boundaries, and learning to prioritise differently at different times. You must also be intentional about time management, learn to say no to time wasters and surround yourself with positive people both at home and at work who will help you achieve your goal.

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    My motivation to pursue a career in Law

    My choice of a career was largely influenced by my father who always told us that we must strive to be the best in whatever we do. I chose to practise in the area of Intellectual Property because of my love for creativity. In my pursuit as a lawyer my greatest help has been God. He has crafted my life in unexpected ways making my career easy. I have also enjoyed great support from my husband who has always stood in the gap for me, praying constantly for me every step of the way.

    Why copyright infringement is so important 

    Copyright infringement is such a crucial topic because it strikes at the heart of creativity, innovation, and fairness. It is not just a legal issue; it’s an economic crime that undermines creativity, destroys livelihoods, and discourages investment in our creative industries. When someone creates a work whether it’s a book, a song, a photograph, or a piece of software, they’re investing their time, talent, and often their livelihood into it. Copyright laws exist to protect that investment by giving creators control over how their work is used. When infringement happens, whether it’s through unauthorised copying, distribution, or adaptation, it undermines the creator’s ability to earn a living, and it can discourage future creative efforts. This is especially important in the digital age, where content is easy to share and reproduce. If we don’t have strong respect for copyright, we risk creating a culture where original work is devalued, and creative industries suffer. But it’s also important to balance enforcement with access and innovation. That’s why we have things like fair dealings, open licenses, and public domain to ensure that the system is not just protective, but also promotes progress. Ultimately, respecting copyright is about valuing the people behind the work and ensuring they’re treated fairly.

     Role of women in the antipiracy fight

    Women play a crucial role in antipiracy fight by bringing unique perspectives, community trust, and leadership that drive effective grassroots solutions. To encourage more women to join, we need targeted empowerment programmes, mentorship, and inclusive policies that break down barriers and highlight women’s impact in this field.

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     Eradicating all forms of piracy

    When it comes to the fight to eradicate piracy in Nigeria, we are not yet there but we are certainly on the right track. One of the things that has happened recently in the Copyright ecosystem is the repeal of the old Copyright Act Cap C28 Laws of The Federal Republic of Nigeria 2004 and the passing into law a new Copyright Law which was signed on March 17, 2023. It is known as the Copyright Act 2022. This law features considerable improvements on the old Copyright Act and contains some of the world’s best practices in that ecosystem. One of the highlights of the law is that it has made provisions for online enforcement of rights. This is very significant because the online space has become one of the largest spaces for utilisation of copyright works. The law also provided stiffer punishment for infringement of copyright. These provisions put together will certainly go a long way towards eradicating piracy in Nigeria.

    Challenge the Commission have had to face in the antipiracy fight

    As someone who has worked with the Nigerian Copyright Commission over the years, I can say without hesitation that the greatest challenge we’ve faced in the anti-piracy fight is the lack of enforcement capacity and sustained political will. There are very recent developments in the fight against online piracy (e.g. dealings with ISPs).

    The Commission’s success stories

    Of course, courtesy the efforts of our Director General, Dr. John Asein. And there has been numerous success stories in the enforcement of Copyright Law in Nigeria. Penultimate week, Hon Justice Faji of the Federal High convicted a man for possession of pirated literary works. This is a case that the NCC filed about three years ago after a raid of some printing outlets in Shomolu area of Lagos. This is very interesting because it entrenches the fact that possession of infringing materials without lawful authority is a criminal offence. Again we have recorded some successes in the area of online enforcement, sometime last year when the movie The Tribe Called Judah was released, while it was still in the Cinemas information got to us that there were some illegal sites showing the movie, we were able to trace one of the owners of such sites to Ogbomosho through intelligence that we gathered and shut down that site.

    Also, early this year a movie that was released on YouTube which was making waves was pulled down several times because of copyright issues, this clearly shows that people are becoming very conscious of the existence of copyright and the need to respect the copyright of others. The Commission has also made significant progress in awareness, policy development, and even in executing raids and prosecutions. But the scale of copyright infringements, especially digitally, has outpaced the resources available to combat it. It may not be ‘uhuru’ but we are on the right path to reducing piracy to the barest minimum.

     My relaxation

    I relax by reading, watching movies, sometimes I go to the cinema to watch movies. Gardening is another way of relaxation for me, I love farming. I plant vegetables in my compound and enjoy tending to them. For me farming is therapeutic.

    My thoughts on beauty

    Beauty, like the saying goes, “is in the eye of the beholder”. What I consider to be beauty may not make sense to another person. Beauty to me is not just about what you see but it is something that has both inward and outward character. It is reflected in the love for God, obedience to His commands and love for fellow man. Beauty is characterised by goodness, modesty, humility, kindness, self-control and ability to empathise with others. Beauty impacts others positively and leaves a lasting impression wherever it goes.

     Women lawyers and fashion

    Well, I believe style and professionalism go hand in hand. Being a lawyer doesn’t mean you can’t care about fashion: it’s all about expressing confidence, whether in the courtroom or outside. I will describe myself as someone that has a good fashion sense. I see myself as a fashionista. I am most comfortable in smart elegant gowns. I am not a wrapper or Boubou person. My gowns are smart and elegant.

     Fashion item I cannot do without

    None really but I love my powder and foundation so I guess I will say powder. I am not into heavy makeup.

     What next for me

    I want to go into IP Consultancy and Arbitration. So many people including right owners know little or nothing about IP so I want to consult for right owners and users as well letting them know what they can do and what they can’t do;  also letting them know how best to monetize their rights.

  • Mojito: A burst of birthday surprise

    Mojito: A burst of birthday surprise

    “Tolu just joined us. And she is such a refreshing burst of joy,” began Sexy Jola as she poured us a glass of Mojito while we settled down to devour her hot and steamy ogbono soup and swallow.  The usual suspects were in the house.  There was an unusual bubbling joy in the air and with the way Jolaolu was going on, I knew something good was brewing. And what a beautiful party Saturday it was.

    She was saying something about a medical doctor who is passionate about exotic drinks that moved in last month with her family. But my mind was on the way Tamara was dealing with the goat meat before her rather than what Jola was saying.

    “Ah-ah, take it easy, na,” Christabel cautioned Tamara, “We have not even prayed sef, you just dey rush. Did you even hear what Jolaolu was saying?”

    “Abeg, make una no vex, I just dey come from far, hungry dey wire me. Ehen, Jola, wetin you say Tolu do and who she be sef,” Tamara asked.

    “She is our new neighbour – a medical doctor who is also a passionate mixologist. I was saying she is such a happy soul. Tamara and Eve, you girls have been missing in action lately in our ebelebo’s place and have not had the chance to meet her; but I’m sure you’d like her once you meet her,” Jola said, sounding very excited.

    “With what I’ve heard, she sounds like a lively person. Looking forward to seeing her,” I said as I tore at the chunk of meat before me while trying very hard to prevent the soup from staining my top. Jola is not smiling at all. She went all out to please…and pleased I am.

    “Well, Evelyn darling, you’d meet her today. Jola tell her,” said Christabel with a smile.

    I looked at her with suspicion and then to Jola to Christabel and Tamara and back to Jola. With suspense in the air which was amplified by the fact that Jola was holding back information, I was now very sure I was in for a pleasant surprise. “But what is it about this Tolu that is getting everyone excited.

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    “Jola abeg, let’s not kill her with suspense. Tell her what you’ve prepared,” Barrister Ada appealed.

    “Okay…okay… Eve, you’ll meet her today…in fact soonest.  She is coming to teach us about mixing non-alcoholic Mojito. You think you can take the party to Seme and leave us out. We ain’t letting girl. It’s our turn to celebrate you dear and we hope to shock you,” said Jola enthusiastically, and before I could have the chance to take in her words or reply, as if it was planned, the mixologist Tolu walked in.

    “Hello ladies! I hope I’m not too late for the party,” Tolu queried with her tools in hand.

    “Hi Tolu,” we greeted.  “Welcome Tolu love. We are still on it,” Jola, our host, added.

    “Where is our birthday girl,” Tolu asked.

    “She is here,” I replied, stood up to hug her. “Happy birthday Sis… more of God’s blessings! You are truly loved. Everyone had good words to say about you but regretted you were away during the D-day. And seeing you now, I can see why,” she stated.

    “Now that Jola and Tolu have opened the floor. Before Tolu takes us through her tutorial, let’s use the opportunity to officially sing her the birthday song. We have a lot in store. You are good at shocking others with your love. We decided to retaliate,” Christabel said and everyone rose up to sing the happy birthday song with their glasses raised.

  • ‘Change can only come when we are intentional and inclusive’

    ‘Change can only come when we are intentional and inclusive’

    With over a decade of leadership, District Governor Mary Onu, an educationist and compassionate humanitarian, believes service-rooted empathy and action have the power to transform lives and communities. She is the newly-elected Governor of the Lions Club 404A3 District, steering up an agenda to impact lives, especially women. Her lifelong dedication to community service and inclusive development sets her apart from her peers. In this interview with EVELYN OSAGIE, she shares her vision, values, and more

    My thought on beauty

    To me, beauty is not confined to physical appearance. It radiates from the entire being. It is in the compassion you show; the lives you touch, the passion you bring to service, and the quiet strength that lifts others. As someone deeply involved in early childhood development and humanitarian work, I see beauty in a child’s progress, in a community uplifted, and in every act of selfless giving. True beauty is purpose lived out with grace, humility and love.

     My thoughts on shifting the paradigm to a more inclusive landscape for women

    Economically, politically, and professionally, we remain vulnerable. However, I feel that the buck lies at our doorsteps. While this is a perception, the first pragmatic step, I think, for a woman is the decision to improve herself. Once a woman has made that decision, everything else opens up because she makes a conscious effort to access education and mentorship that will guide her path through the journey she wants to take. She will seek education, both formal and informal. She will equip herself with the relevant skills—and sometimes it’s free. It is not always paid skills. Volunteering and supporting others are areas where skills are also learnt.

    Mentorship is a key element. I believe it is important for us to also support each other. We used to be terrible at it, but now I must say, more and more, we are becoming aware that we should support each other. I, for one, have benefited from the mentorship of great women. Women must actively mentor others, creating a pipeline for empowered leaders. Change will only come when we are intentional and inclusive. And for as long as we support each other, we will continue to see success. It all starts with the decision of one woman to take that bold step to play on that field.

    My life in service to humanity

    I didn’t choose a life of service. It came to me naturally. Along the journey of life, I have discovered that giving of oneself, whether in time, effort, or resources, is one of the most powerful ways to live a meaningful life. Service connects you to something greater than yourself, or at least, it does for me. It brings perspective, purpose, and fulfillment to me. Material things don’t give that. I have witnessed small acts of kindness transform people’s lives. I have learnt that every effort, no matter how big or small, is valuable. And each of us has the ability to make a difference. Over time, it has become clear to me that service is not something I do. It is the essence of my being. It aligns with my values, fuels my passion, and continues to shape the way I live life and love others.

     My educational journey and impact my personal life

    My inspiration was my father. My father was a teacher, an inspiring one at that. I came from an education background, so my father taught communities. I still recall how we would wake up in the morning and all the children on my street came for lessons for JAMB, for WAEC, and all that. So he was a natural teacher, and that rubbed off on me.

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    Even from my younger years, I found that I would teach people for the fun of it. When I proceeded to university, I pursued a bachelor’s degree in education and science.

    Having pursued that with my natural flair for teaching, it inspired me to pursue other more challenging areas and that’s where leadership came into play. My leadership skills didn’t come naturally. I had to learn. I took a leadership course at Harvard University. Having done this, it just opened my eyes to a world of opportunities and skills that I probably had but didn’t realise, and bringing this to the Lions Club has been phenomenal. Education all around has sharpened my thinking. It has broadened my view worldwide. It has instilled in me discipline and a sense of responsibility. It has given me invaluable qualities for community service where empathy is paired with effective planning, advocacy, and execution

    My 13-year trajectory of service to humanity in Lion’s Club

    I came to Lagos in 2012. It was my first time living in Lagos. Having arrived in Lagos with no network, no friends, and no relatives, I settled down to serve and work in my church. But it did not take long for me to discover that while I was doing great deeds, they were simply within my faith, and I decided to look for a platform where I could reach out to different people. That brought me to the Lions Club.  Over the past 13 years, I have served in different roles of the club. In 2013, I became a Club President. That was a huge leap, but it opened my eyes to even see what more there was in the club. It gave me opportunities to serve in ways I hadn’t anticipated I would be able to and witnessed the transformative power of collective goodwill. So my little bit adds to someone else’s little bit, and we’re able to make a great impact. From my first project to now leading the district, the journey has been one of growth and fulfillment.

    My vision as newly elected District Governor of the Lions Club 404A3 District

    Every year in the Lions Club, we have a different theme. Every year with the election of a new District Governor, we have different targets and goals to support. This year, I have articulated a few areas which I wish to support. I will start with the fundraising. My goal is to raise a N100 million, and support clubs to reach out to communities throughout the year in the area of diabetes. I also want us to support families with children living with sickle cell, Down syndrome, cancer and other disabilities; and also, also support people who are visually impaired.  Also, I intend to support 100 women and youths through an empowerment programme. This will kick off this July when we celebrate Youth Skills Day. We will offer 20 young adults an opportunity for a week-long training through a scheme that offers them employability skills, among others projects of impact. With the clarity of my vision, we mean to reach every possible community within our reach. If this happens, it will show firsthand our passion: for service, for commitment, for compatibility with our communities, and for partnerships. I draw confidence and strength from the members of the district, and the communities we currently serve.

    My advice to teenage girls and women

    It’s interesting because it’s easy to forget we were all once teenage girls. But I tell you, the challenges today are a little different from the challenges we faced in our time. But what’s certain in life is always full of obstacles that will test your strength, your character, and your patience.

    In today’s world, social media is the fastest way to be seen. It is also the quickest way to distraction or the quickest path to discontent and even failure if it’s not used wisely. What you see online is the highlight reel. It is not always the full story.  Teenage girls shouldn’t be pressured to compare their journey with someone else’s timeline. Instead, they should make conscious choices that align with their values and long-term goals. Create those goals as you go along. Surround yourself with people who inspire you. Choose your friends wisely. Invest in your growth. Never let anyone dim your light.

    Most importantly, choose a role model whose life reflects integrity, discipline, and purpose. You have to look up to someone whom you want to be like. Learn from them. Let their example guide you and stay true to who you are becoming. Know your worth. Stay curious and never stop learning. Success is not about speed, it’s about direction.

    My thoughts  on education and the Nigerian child

    One major insight I have gained is the abundance of potential in Nigeria not just in our children, but in those who cater to them. From teachers to cleaners, administrators to drivers, there is so much that each one gives. The system is something we all need to pour into. Parents especially! I will focus on early years because that’s the area I have found myself in, and I’m happy to say it’s where I’ve made the greatest impact.

    Early years are very often taken for granted or overlooked. However, they are the foundation. They are the bedrock of a great and successful life. When I say early years, I mean from age zero to five. 90% of the brain develops between 0 and 5 years old. That means for the rest of our lives, only 10% of the brain continues developing. What the brain gains in the first five years are more than it may absorb in a lifetime. So, focusing on early years has shown me the deep impact that can come from parents, governments, and communities working together.

    Favourite holiday destination

    Having visited several countries, I have come to appreciate many beautiful places but my favorite holiday destination will always be anywhere with a beach. There is something deeply calming and restorative about the ocean, the rhythm of the waves, the open skies, and the chance to just unwind. Whether it is a quiet coast in Africa or a vibrant seaside resort abroad, give me a beach and I am home.

    Fashion item I love most

    I am not one who follows fashion trends religiously, but I absolutely love making bold statements with African prints and fabrics. There is something powerful and beautiful about wearing pieces that reflect our culture, heritage and identity. Whether it is a well-tailored Ankara dress or a vibrant wrapper with various patterns, some holding very rich history, African prints allow me to express myself with pride, purpose, and elegance, without needing to be “fashionable” in the conventional sense.

  • Women’s art group gets a CEO

    Women’s art group gets a CEO

    A nonprofit Organisation of women visual artists, sisterART Global Visual Art Foundation, has appointed academic and visual artist, Mrs. Sophia Jovita Ejameh as its chief executive officer.

    While describing her as “a passionate visual artist and a charismatic leader, the chairman/ founder, Otunba Nkang Ini Dan stated that the appointment by the globally-focused women’s group, known popularly also as sisterART, was inspired by the Mrs. Ejameh’s achievements and its 7th year anniversary.

    Mrs. Ejameh, who is currently the first woman chairperson of Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA) Edo State Chapter, is a lecturer at the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi.

    Dan said: “As a buildup to her 7th year anniversary which on June 18, the need to restructure and strategically position sisterART in line with its core values, mission and objectives, focusing on its key performance indicators (KPIs) became inevitable. The date is also my birthday “As a professional and passionate visual artist, a charismatic leader, a teacher of very high repute, as well as a seasoned administrator with decades of multifaceted experiences, I am very optimistic of the fact that she will provide the quality leadership needed to move this sisterART to very great heights, hence the appointment of Mrs. Ejameh as the Chief Executive Officer of sisterART.”

    Speaking on the appointment, Mrs Ejameh, said: “sisterART, which is a subsidiary of Brotherart Productions, stands as a testament to the power, creativity, and resilience of women in the visual arts, The appointment is indeed an honour as well as another opportunity for us women artist to show the world what we are capable of.”

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    Founded in 2018, this dynamic organisation emerged from the legacy of Brotherart Productions’ “ARTru Concept and Awards” which started in 2015. “Its core mission as a NGO”, according to Dan, “is to unite, celebrate, promote, and project the incredible talent of women in the creative industry, both locally and across the globe. It also serves as a platform for networking, education, as well as providing bountiful opportunities for social, economic and cultural exchanges.”

    Mrs. EJAMEH is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of General Art and Industrial Design. She joined the Polytechnic since 2005 and from the same institution; she bagged her ND in General Art and HND in Textile in 1998 and 2003 respectively. She later got a PGDE in 2012 from National Teachers. In 2021, Sophia bagged her MFA Textile from the University of Benin, Benin City where she’s currently running a Ph.D programme in Textile Arts. She is happily married with children.

  • Fighting aging with tea (1)

    Fighting aging with tea (1)

    She is on her way to 60 but you won’t know. Her look, shape and when it comes to Tinu exercise routine, like they say in Pidgin, she no dey carry last.

    Meet Mummy Precious, a sexy looking grandmother and mother of four boys and two girls, who is as fit as a fiddle. She is always the first to arrive at Tinu’s routines – so say Jolaolu and her partner in crime, Tamara.

    “I don’t know where she gets her energy from. And after six kids, she is still so beautiful. God bless some people sha,” muttered sexy Jola just as the routine was about starting.

    Mummy Precious was at it again that Saturday morning, sweating it out with the girls while serving as inspiration for some lazy bones like me as Tinu called us out to another one of her workouts.

    I had warned Tinu not to take the workout an extra mile – by that I meant she should strike out jogging beyond the estate gate, else she won’t have it easy from me (laugh.) Thank God she listened. I had not yet recovered from the last routine and had planned not to be part of subsequent ones; but for Christabel who persuaded me to attend – Mummy Precious would be sharing her anti-aging secrets – I wouldn’t have attended.

    “One…two…three…four…stretch your body ladies, common! Five…six…seven…eight…shake …oya shake…shake…shake…” Tinu went on shaking, stretching and jumping, not minding what all that shaking was doing to me. I completely forgot about the routine else I would not have “loaded” my stomach with an early morning “snack” of a generous wrap of eba and egusi soup. It was a relief when she called for a break.

    “Which one be all these shake, stretch and jump? Thank God she stopped. I almost threw up all the fufu I ate,” Tamara murmured under her breath while reaching for the towel I brought from the pack that was being shared.

    “Tinu want kill person. Na who send me message? Who force me come here today?  Tamara I blame you o. Next time I won’t listen to you,” Jola complained bitterly against her friend who replied with “Did I put a gun to your head? Na amebo and oju kokoro na bring you come here. Evelyn, do not mind her. I told her Mummy Precious personally told me she had a surprise for us in addition to her sharing her anti-aging secrets. And she rushed down. She was even the one who woke me up. But I first knack fufu and egusi soup. Person no go come die,” Tamara said, laughing. “Shssh! Don’t let them hear o. Na eba me sef knack o,” I said in a whisper. Perhaps my voice was not low enough as I found other ladies laughing at my joke and each one confessed they had “something light” as Lady P jokingly described the heavy breakfast of wheat she had before coming for the routine.

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    “Ladies, please let’s take our seats on the field. Today, we won’t be doing a long routine. Our ever gorgeous Mummy Precious would be taking us on some healthy tips. How many of you would love to look like her at 60,” we raised our hands, and Tamara whispered, “She’s not 60 yet.” I gave her a shove and turned to listen to our anti-aging coach, who began by sharing a bottle of her homemade ice tea.

    “Greetings ladies. It gives pleasure to be part of your morning. Please enjoy one of my homemade tea recipes. By the time we are down, I’ll ask you how you feel. So, many of us have asked me about the secret to my look – I must say it is God. Before I continue, Ogochukwu, you can start sharing my vege-cookies. It’s always good to have something to chew when this kind of discussion is going on,” she said and a beautiful teenager walked in with a tray of biscuits. “I hope I’d love it o,” Jola whispered. “If you don’t want it, give yours to me,” Christabel responded shortly before the girl got to where we were seated.

  • Ikokore and ‘weak woman’ philosophy

    Ikokore and ‘weak woman’ philosophy

    It was another ‘Ikokore’ evening with the girls. Mummy Ademola was hosting. Although it wasn’t planned, the evening feast, inspired by her younger sister, became one of deep deliberation. Of the many issues discussed, the notion of women as being “weak” compared to men took centre stage.

    “Let me welcome you, ladies, to my humble abode.  I’ve always looked forward to a time when I too will host. Thanks for accepting my invitation. Let me introduce my younger sister to the house – she is actually our sponsor. Some already know her – Molara, welcome to Women’s Corner.”

    The house responded with a cheer and “Welcome.”

    “Thank you, Sister Mi! It feels nice to be part of an ad hoc women group that allows one to relax, connect, relate and vent. I have always looked forward to making one of your gatherings. My sister never stops talking about your deliberations which often spark further discussion on our family group. I am happy to be here,” the beautiful but serious looking Molara said. She is a younger version of her sister – both from a family of all girls, seven to be precise. Family of strong women as Mummy Ademola never fails to mention.

    The usual suspects were in the house – I was sitting in between Tamara and Sexy Jola, who notched me as Molara spoke. “Which one be “ad hoc” for the matter again…oya Evelyn define,” a bubbly Jolaolu teased; to which I replied, “I no know book o! Abeg leave jare.”

    Before you could say Jack Robinson, the conversation went from beauty products, cyclic hike in prices of goods, hormonal changes, husband’s ‘palaver’ to Molara’s visit which dovetailed to the notion of women being weak.

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    “Molara dear you are welcome to Women’s Corner. Ladies Molara is a jolly good fellow once you get to know her. I remember the last time you visited you said you’d love to join us once you are on leave. Are you on leave now,” queried Barrister Ada.

    “No o! I’m not. I just took time off work to rest. I was feeling somehow and needed an escape from every every. You’d attend to your husband, attend to the children, coordinate everybody’s activities in between work and school runs. The in-laws and relations are there. You must keep a tab on birthdays, naming ceremonies, etc. If you miss one person’s birthday like this, you are in trouble. My sisters na so I run o.” Everybody laughed and concurred with her statements, and Tamara remarked: “It can be very tiring indeed, my sister.”

    “And they say women are weak,” Tinu stated.

    “Forget that ting! I have always cited the fallacy in that statement and sadly the notion has found its way to our psyche. How can they call us weak? With all the responsibilities we are saddled with. E easy to be woman, make them try make we see! Husband go dey draw you for one side, pickin go dey drag you for another side. Make night reach make you say you tire – come see World War 3?”  Christabel said. We laughed too; perhaps because we’ve all been there.

    “And they will ask you what you were doing all day? Even oga for office go dey stress you.  Abeg joor, e reach to run,” Jola added. Still on the notion of women being weak, one time I went to visit a very close cousin who gave birth. I was supposed to spend a weekend but ended up spending two weeks.”

    Na so my husband dey take phone dey police me every minute after only one week. By the second week, na so I see my husband and the children land for Ekiti; ‘Abeg, your children want kill me. The wahala too much,’ he wailed. (Laughs). I remember teasing him, shebi you done see. And by the time I returned, everything changed. We started sharing chores,” Lady P said as the drinks and the Ikokore (an Ijebu delicacy) were being served.

    “Cheers to the strong women in the house,” Molara said. And we all said: “Cheers”.  

  • ‘Women I grew up with influenced the woman I am’

    ‘Women I grew up with influenced the woman I am’

    The Chief Executive Officer of Reb360 ,Tope Mark-Odigie, wears many hats; yet, in all of them, she’s about impact. From make-up to television to real estate, Tope is a growth catalyst empowering hundreds of women with entrepreneurial skills, IVF treatments and exploring their God-given talent. In this interview with EVELYN OSAGIE, she speaks on turning 40, her passion, career and more.

    Being a woman

    Being a woman to me is being feminine. Being whole. Being bold. Being confident and being audacious with your dreams.

     Growing up that impacted the woman I became

    I grew up with a strong woman as my mother. My mum was very enterprising; I saw her make good money as a young woman. I saw her embrace challenges, failures; redefine herself from one business to the other. My mother was one of my earliest role models and she is still one of my major role models.  Her influence greatly impacted who I have become. However, aside from my mother, I also had aunties who were very strong. I don’t remember having any weak women around me and this influenced me not to think otherwise. The women around me were very vocal, enterprising and successful. Maybe there were some unsuccessful, non-enterprising or timid ones, but I didn’t see them. They didn’t influence me. So, I can say that I am who I am today because of the calibre of women that influenced me being that they were extremely vocal, extremely enterprising, and extremely successful. They had their own money; they could buy their own house, car, and land. They were not beholden to a man and that for me is extremely important as a woman.

     Being 40

    It’s the warmest feeling. Some say life begins at 40, but my life began at 30. The epiphany I had when I clocked 30 was a life-changing one. That moment birthed the decade of 30 to 40. And right now, as I do my next decade of 40 to 50, my life isn’t just beginning; I am piling on the building blocks of that journey. I’ve caught myself and reset my mind. I acknowledge that everybody’s journey is unique ; so, being 40, I am focused on counting my blessings and doing that brings the growth and joy that I enjoy.

     Inspiration behind sponsoring 40 couples to undergo IVF treatment to mark my 40th birthday

    I am an only child with parents who had secondary infertility and I was purely a miracle. I also have very close family friends who went through infertility challenges.  Furthermore, for about seven years now, I have volunteered for a foundation that supports women and families going through infertility or are dealing with infertility challenges. Because of these, I understand the struggle of infertility and decided to mark my birthday with the IVF treatment project for 40 couples. In simple terms, we prioritised people who everything is perfect in their health yet they have unexplained infertility and IVF is the solution; that is people who are okay but just need funds for IVF. The goal is to not let money hold back families from having children. We need a more understanding and enabling environment that supports women through infertility, childbearing, the ups and downs that comes with being a woman.

    READ ALSO: Sanwo-Olu at 60

     Moving from make-up to television to Real Estate

    Everything I’ve ever done revolves around impact. As a makeup artist, I trained 250 people free on makeup. Many of them graduated and have earned money and built businesses with the skills I impacted on them for free. On television, I stand as a light and a role model. I’ve heard some TV presenters say, “I don’t want to be a role model. No one should put me on a pedestal.” I want to be put on a pedestal. I want to live up to the standard God expects of me, “A role model”. The slogan of my church, Daystar Christian Centre, is “Raising role models”: I want to live up to that. Also, my bible says I am a shining light. With Reb360, right from the get go, it has been a platform for Wealth Creation and people empowerment. I have trained thousands of people on how to start their real estate business and how to make money through real estate. People who had never made a million naira in their lives, through my training and my platform, have become multimillionaires, land owners, and business owners within the Real Estate space. So, I might change careers but what I do is the same: positive impact and people empowerment.

    Biggest challenges I’ve faced in real estate

    We’ve had challenges with real estate regulations, Omo Onile, people assuming that I am not the owner of a property because I am a woman. People looking down on me because I am a woman or people thinking I cannot handle a project/contract because I am a woman. People say things like, “do you have the heart for this?” I’ve heard many of such statements and insinuations but they don’t faze me because I understand that challenges are part of life. So I roll with it and I keep trusting God and putting one foot in front of the other in the direction of my goal.

     Women operating in real estate

    There’s a huge advantage for having women in real estate because when you have more women in real estate, women would employ women. More women will do real estate with mentoring. When they see modelling and mentoring, they would embrace it. So, I believe the real gap is not about women not wanting to do Real Estate but women not thinking it is possible for them to do it well. There are also myths around Real Estate, things like one needing a lot of money or being very rugged or being able to fight, you know. Real estate is like every other industry. It has its ups and downs. I believe that if more women understand via mentoring that it’s cyclical, they would venture more into Real Estate. But it is to the advantage of any nation to have an equal representation of men and women in any industry.

     Beauty to me

    Beauty is not perfection. Beauty is self-love. Beauty is self-acceptance. Beauty is confidence. Beauty in a woman for me is to love yourself, accept yourself – flaws and all, be confident in your skin. Do a lot of self-care and self-love. Know that you’re not perfect and you’ll never be. Whether you go under the knife or you go to the spa everyday, you still would not attain perfection.

     Juggling my family life with work

    Juggling family life with work is not something that anybody would tell you they have figured out perfectly. So, what I have learned is to accept myself and do my best per time. When I’m with my family, I give them my hundred percent. When I’m at work, I give work my hundred percent. A few times when there’s an overlap, I know that I prioritise family if it has to do with the health of my children or my spouse. I give myself grace to make mistakes along the way because that’s life. And I forgive myself quickly for the mistakes I make on that journey as well.

    I don’t believe women need to give up their careers to have children. Sadly, this is a reality in Nigeria. Many women resign their jobs to become stay-at-home mothers. And that’s because we don’t provide enough support as a society for women who have children. I strongly believe that the solution to women empowerment is not just to give women money but rather, to create an enabling environment that supports them to thrive.

    Relaxation

    I love to travel. In my current schedule, I don’t have much time for relaxation. But when I have that little space, I watch a movie and I sleep. Actually, I relax with three key things: sleep, movie, and dance. It’s either I’m sleeping, or I’m watching a movie, or I’m dancing. In between those three, I reset myself.

     My fashion style

    My style is eclectic. I love to experiment with what I wear. I have been wearing a lot of aso-oke, suits, trousers, in the weirdest combination. I’m not afraid to experiment with colours and combos. Also, my style is to stand out. I don’t want to blend in with my outfit. Currently, I love to wear a lot of adire, a lot of aso-oke, and a lot of power suits. I love to wear them and I’m very comfortable with sneakers. I shy away from wearing ridiculously high heels that give me stress. I wear them if I have to, but I’m far better with sneakers most of the time.

    What next for me

    My life is all about impact, so the next decade is for greater impact. I see millions of lives being impacted by my teachings, my life, my story, which is why I’ve been intentionally documenting my story. I have written two books. Over the next ten years, I will be writing much more; I see ten more books ahead of me.  I have done several live training sessions, masterclasses – physical and virtual, and the recently concluded Game of Money Conference 2.0 hosted thousands that we’ve impacted their lives on money management. I foresee that we’d do much more of that, touring Africa and the world teaching people to become truly limitless; to turn their pain into purpose; to maximise and not waste any experience they have because there is no waste in God.  Over the next ten years, I see that greater platforms will open up for me globally, and more impact will happen.