Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has called on Nigerian women, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), private sector and other stakeholders to join her in driving an all-inclusive campaign against Gender Based Violence (GBV) from November 25 to December 10.
The 16 Days of Activism is a campaign supported by the United Nations that calls for action to end violence against women and girls.
This year’s theme is: “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls.”
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs has lined up activities to commemorate the global event.
They include, town hall meeting with women groups, GBV awareness rallies in the six geopolitical zones in collaboration with the Offices of the First Lady, flag-off of nationwide campaigns with the release of Helium Balloons as well as interdenominational prayers for Muslims and Christians (in all mosques and churches nationwide).
The 2024 observance provides the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs with the national mechanism for the advancement of women in Nigeria, under the leadership of Suleiman-Ibrahim, to consolidate on the gains made in the past through the efforts of the Federal Government, CSOs, and international partners in addressing GBV.
The minister stressed the need to ensure sustainability of the issues raised, even after the days of observance with a view to bringing cases of GBV to its barest minimum.
She said: “Gender-Based Violence (GBV) remains a hydra-headed monster affecting millions of women, children and marginalised communities in Nigeria.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim said the incidences of reported cases soared to a frightening scale in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria.
She noted that this led to the Federal Executive Council to pass a resolution which called for urgent measures against the menace as well as a declaration of the State of Emergency against GBV in the country by the governors.
She called on government at all levels, civil society organiaations and the private sector to accelerate progress towards ending violence against women and girls.
Community actions are also encouraged during the campaign, such as reporting abusers, signing the pledge against Gender-Based Violence, challenging cultural practices that perpetuate gender inequalities.
Others are being supportive to GBV victims, teaching children values of gender equality, protecting children from exposure to violence and harmful content on the internet and social media, developing policies that prevent and deal with gender-based violence.
The 16 days campaign was started by activists at the inauguration of the Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991.
It is used as an organising strategy by individuals and organisations around the world to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.
In support of this civil society initiative, the United Nations Secretary-General launched in 2008 the campaign UNITE by 2030 to End Violence against Women, which runs parallel to the 16 Days of Activism.
Every year, the UNITE Campaign focuses on a specific theme and this year’s is “UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls”.
So I got home last Friday to find a call from Sexy Jola. I made a mental note to call back once I’m done eating. I was still eating when Christabel called and asked that I join the conversation in the women in estate’s group chat.
I said I would, rolled my eyes, while wondering what the matter was again. I reached for my phone. Holding my breath, I clicked on WhatsApp and scrolled down to where the chat was, said a word of prayer and clicked on it – and then my face lit up with a smile.
“Mummy Shalewa was at it again. What’s with this woman and Baba Ijebu sef,” I thought to myself as I licked my fingers and reached for the pomo on my plate. She has just won another lottery ticket and the “world will not hear a word again” as the girls would put it. I looked and saw that it wasn’t Baba Ijebu that she won this time but Bet9ja. Just then a message entered from Jola, saying: “Come online and join the conversation on our Women’s Corner chat.
I did and found that the girls were arguing for and against betting with Mummy Shalewa as case study. I told myself I won’t sweat it or waste credit on such. I said “hi” to the ladies and “good night”; and turned in for the night.
I woke up to find Tamara and Christabel had called earlier. I called Tamara back and found they were in her house. “What? This early? What’s going on? I heard Jolaolu’s voice, asking if I was coming.
By the time I got downstairs I found Tamar, Christabel and Jolaolu were already stepping out. “Where are you guys going?” I asked as I noticed they were all on their sportswear.
“We are going to see Mummy Shalewa,” Jola answered.
“We want her to put us through this in her betting thing. In this economy, we want to explore all options. You would be shocked she has a secret we do not know of that we can learn from,” Tamara said.
“Count me out,” I screamed and turned to go; but Jola held me back and added “You might learn a thing or two or even have an exclusive story from our conversation o.”
That got my attention. “Hmmm, a story abi? That sounds interesting. You know what; once you’ve spoken with her, let me know the details and then I’ll decide if it’s worth the trouble. For now, I am going back to sleep,” I said, turned and walked away.
The Nigerian fashion scene is buzzing with excitement as we match into the ‘Mber’ months. One Nigeria’s celebrity fashion brand setting trends is Ella Couture.
Under the leadership of CEO, Angela Raymond, the brand has risen to be one of the fashion outfits, taking centre stage as the country’s top fashion brand.
With the unveiling of their latest trendy styles, Ella Couture has captured the hearts of Nigerian celebrities and ignited a new era in fashion.
From an early age, Angela, who is also a Fashion Consultant, has had a knack for fashion. “I’ve always loved fashion and knew early on that my future was in this field. I enjoyed looking good and helping others do the same, receiving compliments about my style from friends who often asked me to style them,” she says.
She launched her brand, “Ella Couture,” which specialises in retail clothing, in 2020. The brand has since come to be known for its impeccable craftsmanship, innovative designs, and attention to detail. The brand seamlessly blends traditional Nigerian aesthetics with modern trends, garnering widespread acclaim.
On her biggest dream, she says “I envision Ella Couture expanding and exporting throughout Africa, Europe, and America, evolving into a globally recognised fashion brand that people love and trust”.
From red carpet events to music videos, they don the brand’s exquisite creations, showcasing the richness of Nigerian fashion. As Ella Couture emerges as Nigeria’s top brand, its impact on the fashion industry is far-reaching. The brand’s success fuels pride and optimism among local designers, inspiring creativity and pushing boundaries.
But what is its secret for tirelessly positioning the brand as a symbol of Nigerian fashion excellence? Angela, the visionary behind Ella Couture, says “Through meticulous attention to quality and innovative design concepts we’ve been able to catapult Ella Couture to the forefront of the industry. With a keen eye for emerging trends and an innate ability to anticipate consumer demands, we captured the essence of Nigerian fashion in chic designs. We are committed to showcasing Africa’s unique heritage that has brought global recognition and opened doors for local designers.”
Ella Couture’s rise has created a domino effect, spurring competition and innovation. Other brands strive to match its quality and aesthetics, elevating Nigeria’s fashion landscape.
The United Nations (UN) has raised concerns on the plights of women and girls. In pursuit of practical steps towards better implementation of policies to balance gender roles at all levels of society, particularly leadership, UN Women held a Roundtable for Media Executives from the southern part of Nigeria in Lagos. EVELYN OSAGIE writes.
Nigerian women are topping the charts in science, business, entertainment as well as beauty and lifestyles, but the percentage of those doing so is quite low and nothing to be desired.
The UN Women Country Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms. Beatrice Eyong, expressed concerns last Friday in Lagos over the fact that the gender gap especially in power and leadership positions still remains entrenched.
She said that representation of women in Nigeria’s particularly in parliament, where critical policies and laws are made “is just about four per cent and at the executive, women make only 17 per cent of the ministers serving in the Federal Cabinet”.
Beyond politics, citing global data, she stated that globally one in every 10 women lives in extreme poverty, and projections indicate that 342.4 million women and girls will not have moved out of extreme poverty by 2030 unless we shift the current trends. The percentages, she went to say, could be higher for countries like Nigeria where the gap between the few rich and a majority poor continues to widen.
Media team with UN Women
Resolute on changing the narrative through media partnership, UN Women took a strategic step towards escalating media actions to promote Gender Equity and Women Empowerment at a roundtable of media executives from the southern part of Nigeria, representatives of media umbrella bodies and media regulatory institutions endorsed a memorandum of understanding with UN Women.
This strategic partnership, according to Eyong, aimed to bolster media interventions and provide a robust platform for advancing women’s leadership; saying it is in alignment with SDG Goal 5, Target 5.5, which seeks to ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making. She applauded the media for prioritising women’s advancement in their editorial policies and programming.
Eyong said: “UN Women believes that investing in women is investing in the very fabric of society. No nation can truly thrive if women are left behind. Our support is grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and a common vision with the Government and people of Nigeria.”
The signing of the MOU, tagged ‘Compact of Commitment,’ was the key highlight of the roundtable. The signatories include the Nigerian Guild of Editors, the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, the National Broadcasting Commission, the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, the Nigeria Television Authority, The Punch Newspapers, The Guardian newspapers, the Nigerian Democratic Report, Raypower FM, Blueprint Newspaper, amongst others.
Panelists speak for women sake
The event also featured solidarity statements, a welcome address, and an engaging panel discussion. The panel discussion was titled: The Role of Digital and Mass Media in Promoting Women’s Political Inclusion and Representation in Nigeria. Moderated by Mrs. Motunrayo Alaka, Executive Director of Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), it featured insights from Mr. Dr. Lateef Odegbenle; Mrs. Yewande Iwuoha, General Manager of Raypower; Mrs. Laide Abbas, Assistant Director of News at NTA; and Bukunmi Adeaga, Content Creator and Influencer, CEO of Kiekie TV and social media platforms.
The plenary session also provided a platform for media executives to offer their perspectives and interventions. They highlighted key challenges impeding women’s representation in political and economic spheres and explored how media executives and their organisations can address them through targeted media interventions.
This collaborative effort between the UN Women and the media executives marks a pivotal moment in advancing women’s leadership and media representation in Nigeria, reinforcing the critical role of media in shaping an equitable and inclusive future.
The solidarity statements of support for the initiative came from Ms. Amina Oyagbola of Women In Successful Careers (WISCAR); Dr. Yemisi Bamgbose, Executive Secretary of Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON); Maureen Chigbo, president of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, represented by Mrs. Yemisi Izuora; Mr. Charles Ebuebu, Director-General of National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), represented by Mr. Raphael Akpan, zonal director; Dr. Dili Ezugha, Executive Secretary of Nigeria Press Council, represented by Ms. Azuka Odidika and the President of the Nigerian
“Back to our peacekeeping mission to Stella’s house after her SOS reached us about her husband not eating her food, we set out that morning armed with Yeye Ajoke and Worowo Soup.
What was missing was the yam that would have made for a ‘perfect’ peacekeeping recipe’ to capture the heart of her Ekiti hubby. And to get it, we visited a nearby market; but we were met with a shocker.
You see, none of us has bought or eaten yam in the last three months; but we found that the prices of yam had increased astronomically. One tuber of yam sold for between N15,000 and N18,000. And we spent close to an hour haggling prices – not even Yeye Ajoke haggling skills could save us. It took a joint effort for us to purchase the size of yams that would feed 10 mouths. And the gang did not like it at all. “Ehe-eh, yam is now gold! When they see us pricing yams like that, they would wonder why these lovely ladies dressed like celebrities could be doing such. They will not know we did not plan to make such expenses,” voiced Jola as we took our seats in Christabel’s car.
“Let them ask Google…Na them get them mouth…but seriously, so we can no longer eat yam again… Common yam? …This is no longer funny,” Ada lamented.
“What if we didn’t have money nko,” Jola said, while decrying how the high cost of living has affected prices of foodstuff and the money for the upkeep of the house. “We cannot continue like this… How do we survive when customers are not even buying?”
Her rhetorical statement was followed by a pin-drop silence that forced us into a moment of deep thought that was broken by Ada, “Come to think of it, I pray Daddy Ifeanyi and all my children would choose to protest like Seyi by not eating (laughs). Stella does not even know what her husband is saving them, protesting.” Her statements were followed by another silence, which was broken by Jola. “I noticed that it’s just me and Ada that have been talking since. Na so the thing touch una? It is well o. Evelyn. Christabel. Mummy Fawaz. Hello…!”
“I am appalled by the whole incident jare,” began Christabel, whose irritation was not hidden. “Na we dey kill ourselves for this country. My husband returned yesterday from his hometown in Osun State. Could you believe he said yam cost between N700 and N800? He bought the same size we just bought at the rate of N3,500. My sister in-law even confirmed it. I have decided to abandon my fashion designing business to go into foodstuff one.” Her words threw us into a frenzy. “It’s a lie…”, “I can’t believe it…”, “Why are you just saying it, now…”, “Abeg, take us there; when can we go…” came the reactions. And before she could respond, we arrived at our destination.
Not knowing the kind of adventure we’ve had all morning, Stella welcomed us with doses of complaints and questions. “What took you so long? We have been waiting all morning. I made Shawarma and some smoothies to keep you relaxed while you wait…I have been practising pounding.”
“Before you kill us with talk abeg come help us, o,” Sexy Jola cut in, even as Seyi joined us with a smile. Not to bore you with details, it all went well. Seyi helped with the pounding. And after listening to the couple talk, we brokered peace and signed the pact of ceasefire with pounded yam and Worowo soup. The day ended with Yeye Ajoke’s nuggets of wisdom on the significance of understanding and communication in a relationship.
•Share your thoughts with us on evelyn.osagie01@gmail.com
A small art focused group in Ibadan, the Women and Youth Art Foundation, has grown to impact thousands of lives using art as a form of economic empowerment for women. The Wy Art, as it is popularly called, celebrated 30 years of its existence at Ibadan recently where it all began, EVELYN OSAGIE writes
They came from near and far. Many, mostly women, both former and would-be beneficiaries, thronged the capital city of Oyo State to celebrate a 30-year-old art and empowerment legacy. Welcome to Women and Youth Art Foundation, known popularly as Wy Art.
For three decades, the foundation, which is the brainchild of widely celebrated art historian and artist, Prof. Peju Layiwola, has impacted the lives of women. It was listed by the French Label, Louis Vuitton, as one of the impactful artist-led centres in Africa.
A woman’s passion for women
The world is now big on women empowerment and women supporting women is no longer a cliché. Inspired by the role women play in building the home and passing on skills to their children, Layiwola has used art as a form of empowerment for people, mainly women, in local communities. Driven by some of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly Goals 8 and 10, Wy Art has consistently taught and documented skills to artists, craftsmen, the unemployed, low-income workers, the physically challenged, widows, and youth groups across Nigeria, in Europe and North America, etc. The initiatives gave rise to the DIYs on DVD on different skills which it has run since the early 90s.
“One of the greatest achievements of the foundation is the e-learning DVDs we recorded in 1998 in various arts and crafts which have been used by so many people. We literally took art into the homes of Nigeria and other Africans on the continent. Using the Home Video culture, we saw this as a veritable medium of disseminating skills and to fill the gap in our educational system that does not fully recognise the impact of Art in society as a tool for empowerment.
“The role of women in the development of society cannot be overstated. Indeed, to have sustained a dream for one generation is a great achievement. The world has a lot to gain by empowering women. And tell women to follow their passion and encourage your children when they show interest in whatever art craft that they like; including kids with disabilities. Those with mental or physical capabilities have inane talents that women can develop and it is important to pay them special attention and work at their pace. Art is beautiful, it is intellectual, it can be a life saver. And I am proud to say that is what Wy Art represents,” Layiwola says of her 30-year-old passion.
It turned 30 recently and commemorated the anniversary with pomp and ceremony at Ibadan where it all began. The feat engendered encomiums, especially from the arts community within Nigeria and abroad.
Distinguished Professors Bruce Onobrakpeya and Niyi Osundare, among others, applauded Wy Art’s impacts and its founder for her commitment towards development of humanity. Onobrakpeya praised the efforts of Layiwola, linking it to her heritage as the daughter of Princess Elizabeth Olowu, the first woman to engage in the art of bronze casting in Benin Kingdom.
“Her strategy to initiate the Wy Art foundation at the beginning of her artistic career has proved very successful as an informal education project. It is this foresight and boldness that made her venture into Agbarha-Otor in the wetland of Delta State to facilitate different departments with the aid of her foundation. Now that the foundation celebrates 30, I and other participants of the Harmattan workshop salute and send our heartfelt congratulations to our able Layiwola and also wish the informal art school more years of service to humanity,” he stated.
Osundare, who spoke of how his daughter benefited from Wy Art training 30 years ago, salutes the efforts of its impact on the womenfolk.
He said: “I and my family would like to wish Prof. Layiwola and the foundation a wonderful anniversary and thank you for all that you do.”
Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof Ayo Atsenuwa, praised the impact of the foundation on the University of Lagos (UNILAG), recounting the mural on the facade of the Department of Creative Arts building.
More encomiums from Ibadan
In Ibadan, the anniversary, which was marked with two-day celebrations, was attended by scholars, artists and writers.
The event, which took place in the University of Ibadan (UI), was chaired by the Director of the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding, Prof Siyan Oyeweso, represented by Prof. Ajala of the Department of Archeology.
It began with a symposium at the Lady Bank Anthony HallI, along with art workshops in screen printing, adire eleko, adire oniko and painting. Over 200 women participated in the workshop daily, including secondary schools and university students. The residents of the Leonard Cheshire Home whom Layiwola had always taught also participated.
Also in attendance were UI Deputy Librarian, Dr. Adetoun Oyelude; the curator of the National Museum, Ibadan, Mrs. Pamela Otuka; Consultant Family Physician and Head Staff Medical Services Department, UCH, Dr Ayo Olofin; Dr. Evelyn Emeahara of the Department of Library and Archival Studies, and Professor of Theatre arts and Costume designer, USA, Dr. Grace Adinku.
They praised and gave testimonials on how the initiative has impacted their lives so far. Dr. Oyelude, whose children were beneficiaries 20 years ago, stated that the foundation taught them skills which have helped their all-round development; Dr. Olofin reminisced on how her daughters, now adults, began learning from the foundation from a very early age. “My children, now adults, were once participants and later became facilitators, teaching macramé, coconut jewellery and textile designing,” she said.
Dr. Emeahara said she was able to supplement her income largely from the additional skills she put to use which she had learnt. While urging the government to be more proactive in its funding of groups such as Wy Art helping to alleviate poverty through vocational training, Dr. Adinku also recounted how she and her wards benefited from it.
Speaking on how she had been able to keep the initiative alive for the past 30 years at the event, Layiwola said: “The passion people have shown have goaded me on even though at some point I thought to quit. It was tough sourcing steady funding for all our projects. Principal difficulty was getting money to expand on the activities of the Foundation. Grants are given for specific projects and when that is accomplished, we begin searching for another which may not come in good time. We appreciate those who have supported us over the years, such as the late Bisi Silva and International bodies such as the US State Department (2011), the US Consulate, Lagos (2017) and the British Council (2021/22).”
The old-time classic, Iyogogo, woke me up and forced me out of bed that Wednesday morning. I checked the time and it was not a right time at all for anyone to be playing such music, and that loud.
“Who could be blasting this music…and why…,” I murmured as I dragged myself to the window. “The culprit seemed to have put it on repeat…,” I said as I tried to see which direction the song was coming from. But that was my mistake as I found myself forgetting my anger and humming to the beat of the song to the point of even singing along with the chorus, “Iyogogo..Iyogo…Iyogogo! Iyogogo…Iyogo…Iyogogo…!”
“…Oh-oh-oh…,” I muttered, angrily when I found myself unintentionally stepping to its beat. “Who is this na…why today…today that I took a break from work to rest… Why?” The music was so loud that I did not hear my phone ring before going into the bathroom to have my bath. The sound of the music followed me into the bathroom and fought for my attention under the shower, bringing back fond memories of how the legendary queen of songs, Onyeka Onwenu, had been able to capture our hearts with her golden voice for decades. Like Iyogogo, her songs have remained classics of all time. The feel of the cold water on my skin in addition to the loud blast of the music that seemed to have increased jolted me back to reality.
“What is going on?” I uttered through gritted teeth. I finished dressing and was putting on my snickers before stepping out when I heard a knock on the door.
“Is someone there…,” I asked and opened the door to find an angry Jola and Tamara, who walked past me into my apartment.
“We have been knocking since…,” voiced Jola.
“…And calling too,” ventured her double, Tamara.
“Sorry gals! I was in the bathroom. But even if I wasn’t, how can someone hear with this music blaring so loud…what is going on, who is this wicked person that is bent on disturbing our peace today?”
“It’s Daddy Innocent o…,” Jola replied and before I could let out my surprise on how the innocent and peace-loving Daddy Innocent had become so mean, Tamara said in a whisper, “Onyeka Onwenu is dead..”
“What did you say…,” I queried and followed them to my balcony. Seeing my confusion, Jola turned and explained, “That is why Daddy Innocent is playing her songs, which is his favourite of all her songs. And that is why we let him,” she said and pointed downstairs underneath the Ebelebo where Ada and Christabel were waiting.
“Let’s join the others,” Jola said, forcing me to swallow the questions of “What happened…how…when…, etc.
As if mourning, it was a cloudy morning that welcomed us as we joined our friends. The sun was slow in coming out from behind the sky, but not without casting shadows under the Ebelebo Tree. Daddy Innocent had reduced the volume of the music by the time we got to where they were seated.
“What happened,” I probed as I sat beside Ada.
“She was reported to have died yesterday moments after an amazing musical performance at the 80th birthday party of Stella Okoli, founder of Emzor Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Company…Where did you keep your phone, I’ve been calling you since,”
“Leave my phone, jare, have you forgotten I complained of a nagging headache, last night. I took some drugs. But for the loud music, I would still be resting now.” I ventured, which was followed by “Oh, sorry about that…”; “how are you now…”, “hope you are better…”
“As I was saying, she didn’t give any indication that that would be her last performance… she was just 72-year-old …we’ve lost a rare gem,” Ada added.
“Indeed, we have. Onyeka Onwenu was a National treasure, who lived up to her name – ‘elegant stallion’,” I offered, a statement that was backed up by Jolaolu, “She was ever so elegant as she entertained”.
“She was an icon and legend who inspired multiple generations of Nigerians with her music,” Tamara retorted, even as Tiny walked in on us with a bottle of wine and some glasses.
“Ada had asked that we pay tribute to this great woman who made our hearts sing. So here we are,” Tiny said and began pouring the wine and when she was done, Ada said, “Can we rise? Let’s have a minute of silence for our Iyogogo queen (silence). As we raise our glasses, we call to mind her contributions and celebrate her impacts…she would be greatly missed. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace!” We all raised our glasses and said, “Amen”.
In a post-COVID world where it is becoming more difficult to navigate through marriage, motherhood and even when the nest is empty, radio host, Ezinne Kufre-Ekanem, has become a voice of motivation for many. Drawing inspiration from her own experience, Kufre-Ekanem, who is also the CEO of Rosemary’s Furnishings and Beddings, is providing women a platform for sharing stories, networking, and learning through the UpYouWomen Conference. In this interview with EVELYN OSAGIE, she speaks on why no woman should be idle and more
Navigate business and family life
Navigating business and family life has been a journey of balance, prioritisation and delegation. Over the years, I have learned to adapt to the changing seasons of life, particularly in this season of being an empty nester. This transition has afforded me more time to focus on my business endeavours without the daily demands of raising children. Prioritising has been key to managing both aspects effectively. I make sure to set clear goals and identify what tasks need immediate attention versus those that aren’t urgent. This helps me maintain a sense of order and ensures that neither my business nor my family commitments are neglected.
Delegation is another crucial component. Recognising that I cannot do everything myself, I have built a strong team both at work and at home. This support system allows me to focus on strategic decisions and long-term planning, knowing that day-to-day operations are in capable hands. Ultimately, it’s about creating a harmonious balance that allows me to thrive in both my personal and professional lives, continually adjusting to the ebb and flow of responsibilities and opportunities.
Growing up that made you the woman I am
Growing up as the first child in my family had a significant impact on shaping who I am today. It instilled in me a sense of responsibility and leadership from an early age. I often found myself in a position where I had to set an example for my younger siblings, which taught me the importance of being reliable and dependable. My upbringing was filled with moments that required resilience and adaptability. These experiences have equipped me with the skills to navigate challenges both in my personal life and in business. The values of hard work, perseverance, and empathy that were instilled in me during my formative years have become the foundation of my character. Additionally, being the first child meant that I had to learn to balance multiple roles and responsibilities, a skill that has been invaluable in managing my career and family life. The lessons from my childhood continue to guide me, driving my passion to empower others and make a positive impact in my community.
Inspiration behind UpYouWomen Conference
The amazing stories of Nigerian, particularly women who have faced and triumphed over adversity are the inspiration behind my convening the UpYouWomen conference. Their stories continue to inspire and equip participants with the resilience and strategies to overcome their own challenges, yearly. And this year is no different. It has since become an annual event dedicated to empowering women by providing a platform for sharing strategies for overcoming challenges and achieving success; as well as networking and learning. This year’s edition, which will be hold on the 31st of this month at EbonyLife Place in Lagos, parades an exceptional lineup of speakers, panelists, and moderators. A distinguished leader and staunch advocate for women’s empowerment, Nkeiru Olumide Ojo, will serve as its chair and keynote speaker – with the theme “Through the Fire: Triumphing in Adversity”. Idea of the conference was an upshot of my radio programme, UpyouwithEzinne.
Several years ago, I was a guest at a women’s conference where I spoke on a woman and her dreams. It was well received that I was made the keynote speaker for the United States of America version of the same conference. That gave rise to my book, “Up You”. So the concept of “Up You” is that of a woman’s incredible attributes and the validity of her dreams. I wrote that book to encourage women that no time is late. You don’t have to squash your dreams. You can keep them on the burner until you find the time and the season to chase them. And from the book my radio programme, UpyouwithEzinne was born. It’s an upbeat one-hour radio show aimed at encouraging the woman to keep going and being the best she can be in any given circumstance. It was meant to amplify what the book had been doing. I try to reach a wider audience with the same message by getting other women who are doing well in different areas to come and speak to the women. Their inspirational stories and the impact of the programme on womenfolk led us to start a skill mastering programme in digital skill mastering so women can sit at home, take advantage of the digital world and make money.
Motivation behind my women’s self–care advocacy
It stemmed from my own experience. I remembered telling my husband after we got married that he needed to make me happy in the marriage. But I later came to the self-realisation – after he told me categorically that my happiness in his hands, – that irrespective of whether I’m married to him or not or even married at all, nothing should replace my own self and my source of joy. Of course, he would do some things that would make me happy but my happiness needs to stem from myself. So women need to know that they need to find this.
But we tend to get absorbed in marriage. It’s okay so long as you don’t lose yourself. You must find your own joy. You have common interests, but also find those interests that are not common to you and build on them.
Life’s lesson women should learn from mine
One valuable life’s lesson women should learn from mine is the importance of paying attention to one’s self-care. Women must learn to put themselves first, before others. Help yourself first so you can help others.
I remember later on in our marriage, my husband took ill and I dropped everything to look after him. One day, I realised that I was just sitting down, not doing anything, not talking to anyone and refusing to go anywhere. Literally stopping my life wasn’t the solution. It hit me rather than square. And I had to live again while doing what we had to do. So I got up. Every week I had to do something for myself. I had to find a balance. I do not subscribe to a woman not finding herself or losing her dream because she’s married or even because she’s had children. No healthy woman should be idle.
Beauty to me
Beauty to me is a combination of inner and outer qualities that radiate confidence, kindness, and authenticity. It’s about embracing who you are and expressing that through your actions, words, and appearance. True beauty comes from a genuine sense of self-worth and the ability to see and appreciate the beauty in others. It’s also about taking care of oneself, not just physically but emotionally and mentally. When you feel good on the inside, it naturally reflects on the outside. Beauty is also in the way we carry ourselves, the kindness we show to others, and the strength we display in facing life’s challenges.
My fashion style
My fashion style is a blend of elegance and practicality. While I appreciate and enjoy fashion, I wouldn’t necessarily describe myself as a fashionista. I gravitate towards classic, timeless pieces that are both comfortable and versatile. Fashion for me is about expressing who I am and feeling confident in my own skin, rather than strictly following trends. I appreciate well-tailored outfits that can transition seamlessly from professional settings to more casual environments. I also love incorporating vibrant colors and unique accessories that reflect my personality and heritage. Whether it’s a beautifully designed dress or a simple, stylish ensemble, my goal is always to feel confident and authentic in what I wear.
Fashion item I cannot do without
A stylish kaftan is one fashion item I can’t do without. It’s incredibly versatile and comfortable, perfect for various occasions, whether I’m attending a formal event or enjoying a casual day out. A kaftan allows me to express my style effortlessly while maintaining a sense of elegance and grace.
Lagos women are warming up to attend a conference that is set to transform their lives. It is the UpYouWomen Conference 2024 scheduled to hold in August at EbonyLife Place in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The conference parades an exceptional lineup of speakers, panelists, and moderators for this year’s event. The UpYouWomen Conference is an annual event dedicated to empowering women by providing a platform for sharing stories, networking, and learning.
Centred on the theme: Through the Fire: Triumphing in Adversity, the organisers said this year’s edition is designed to inspire and empower women across Nigeria and beyond.
“This year’s conference faculty has been carefully curated to deliver on its theme,” she stated. “These remarkable individuals have faced and triumphed over adversity, and their stories will inspire and equip our attendees with the resilience and strategies to overcome their own challenges,” said the convener of the yearly UpYouWomen Conference, Ezinne Kufre-Ekanem.
Nkeiru Olumide Ojo, a distinguished leader and staunch advocate for women’s empowerment, will serve as both the chair and keynote speaker for this prestigious event. Her extensive experience and insights are expected to set a powerful tone for the conference, offering valuable perspectives on overcoming adversity.
The conference boasts an impressive roster of speakers, each renowned in their respective fields. Fadekemi Olumide-Aluko, a celebrated actor, lawyer, and educationist, is known for her significant contributions to women’s education and well-being. Joining her are Nelly Agbogu, a dynamic entrepreneur and influential social media personality; Nse Ikpe-Etim, an acclaimed actress and mental health advocate; Amb. Dr. Unyime Ivy Ubong King, an esteemed motivational speaker and strategist; Eden Onwuka, a highly regarded author and leadership coach; and Laide Olaseinde, an influential business leader and mentor.
In addition to the main speakers, the conference will feature a distinguished panel of expert coaches. Adeola Kingsley James, a therapist and clinical hypnotherapist, will share her expertise on owning your greatness. Dr. Ruth Goma, a developmental psychologist, will discuss women’s health and mindfulness.
Dr. Blossom Maduafokwa, a physician and health and fitness enthusiast, will bring her insights on women’s health. Olabisi Usademe, The Lagos Trauma Coach and social entrepreneur, will offer her perspective on overcoming trauma and triumphing in life. Dr. Genevieve Duncan Obuobi from Ghana will focus on rebuilding wealth after losing it all.
The event will be hosted and moderated by prominent media personalities Chioma BBB, Chioma Omeruah (popularly known as TheOnlyChigurl), Sandra Omobola, and Fabia Ogumekan, ensuring dynamic and engaging sessions for both virtual and physical delegates. Founded by Ezinne Kufre-Ekanem, the conference brings together women from all walks of life to share their experiences and strategies for overcoming challenges and achieving success.
“Hello ladies! I see you are all looking sweet,” came Christabel the Fashionista’s greeting, interrupting Ada who was explaining how she stumbled into a fruit market somewhere after Iyana Ipaja.
“I was accompanying my friend to Command and explaining to her how AY, a mutual friend of ours, got rid of her cancer cells through a magical fruit,” she was saying when she was rudely interrupted.
“What fruit are you talking about Barrister Ada,” I asked, urging that she return to the gist at hand.
“Sorry Ada, no vex…Evelyn no vex…Ladies, guess who I have here…,” voiced an excited Christabel, forcing our attention from Ada’s gist. And for the first time, we all noticed the lady standing some few metres behind her.
“She looked familiar but I can’t place her face,” Sexy Jola said.
“Could it be her sister in Port Harcourt?” interjected Tamara.
“Please, join us…,” Ada urged.
“Come… Seat,.. Mummy Yinusa…Mummy Fawaz, please add two extra plates of fruits…we have a visitor and Christabel is back,” Ada hollaed.
And just as the light bulb went off in my head, Christabel suddenly said “Remember that woman at the heart of the family planning wahala, whose husband disrupted our party at Agbado? Meet Munachi!”
“Welcome Muna..,” came the reception from the Women’s Corner gang. It was a cloudy Saturday morning and we were in the mood for revelry. We were having a healthy party, as Ada put it. She and Tamara had bankrolled it. Everywhere was calm and quiet.
“Shhh, don’t let them hear. They haven’t forgiven her and her husband for what they did to our party, o,” Jolaolu shushed Christabel.
“She seems like a nice person,” Tamara whispered as Muna sat next to Christabel who had taken her seat close to Ada.
“Let me start by apologising to you over the mess that happened last time,” began Muna.
“And her English sounds good, too. Does it mean she is educated…Evelyn I don’t understand,” whispered Tamara again.
I turned and gave her a warning look that she should leave me alone. “Can you just let me concentrate,” I muttered loudly…too loud for my own good as my words caught the attention of others, including our guest.
“Na Jamb question wey you need concentration abi na quadratic equation, wey you want solve,” Christabel teased, “Please, Muna continue …”
“I wanted to thank and inform you. personally that I have got myself a teaching job. So, after you last visited, I decided to return the visit. I got inspired, seeing the humility and support from progressive minds like yours. Your words and support came as a balm for me and my family. Other women would have judged us…many actually judged me, but your encouragement made me strong. Thank you all…” Muna said and bursted into tears. And as is our tradition, we quickly circled around and built a wall of comfort about her. She calmed down, took her seat; we took ours, too, and Ada continued: “Muna, it is our pleasure to support you. Do not allow anyone to judge you. Everyone has their own demons to fight. Before you came I was sharing with the girls about a magical fruit that fights cancer – soursop. I’m not a doctor and this is a disclaimer before somebody goes to quote me wrongly, with due respect to our journalist in the House (laughs).
“If you know the fruit, you’d agree with me that it looks rough and rugged on the outside. One can easily be deceived to think that the inside is the same. But it is made of more – the inside is soft and very tasty. So are you. In you, I see the magic of soursop.
I am happy you have evolved to become the beautiful you. Let’s celebrate this African Queen who has returned to her passion – teaching!”
“Go Muna”…”We are proud of you”…”That’s our girl…” We greeted her.
“Oya lovely ladies, serve the fruits with soursop as main course. Let’s make it a staple in our homes,” advised Ada
