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Tag: Women

  • Clubs, nations underpaying women in sports, says UN rights chief

    Clubs, nations underpaying women in sports, says UN rights chief

    UN human rights chief, Volker Türk, has berated nations and clubs around the world for underpaying women in sports.

    Türk called on Member States and sports clubs to address the vast gender and stark pay gap which still exists in women’s sport.

    “The playing field is still far from level,” Türk said.

    “We need to build up a world of sports in which women and girls, in all their diversity, are equally valuable, visible and paid.”

    While professional male footballers earn, on average, 1.8 million dollars annually at the top clubs, women athletes at top clubs have an average income of 24,000 dollars.

    Similarly, the average woman athlete, not at top clubs, earns even less than that, rounding out to approximately 10,900 dollars per year.

    “Without a stable income, women are forced to take other jobs, leaving them with less time and energy to focus on training and improving,” Türk said.

    He stressed that the wage gap is made even more unsustainable by a lack of sufficient protection in the workplace.

    For instance, he said, there is minimal, if any, maternity leave.

    There are also few few places to​​ turn to for redress when harassment occurs.

    Women are also very underrepresented in leadership of professional clubs and federations.Of the 31 federations, women chaired only three.

    In spite of such sobering statistics, some federations have begun to institute changes, enshrining maternity and adoption leave and establishing pay equity agreements.

    Türk called on Member States to institute comprehensive anti-discrimination systems which promote pay equality and ensure that violence and harassment in sports is brought to justice.

    He also said that the media can and should be a “force for good” in portraying women’s success stories in sports and by ensuring that their coverage is accurate and ethical.

    “Sports can drive social change, and inspire and promote fairness, respect and equal opportunities for all.

    “Today let’s champion a sporting world where women and girls can thrive.”

  • Veekee James to married women: “Don’t withhold intimacy from your husband, even when tired”

    Veekee James to married women: “Don’t withhold intimacy from your husband, even when tired”

    Popular fashion designer and social media personality Veekee James has sparked conversations online following her candid advice to married women about maintaining intimacy in marriage. Speaking in a heartfelt exchange with her sister-in-law, the newlywed   who has been married for over a year — urged women not to withhold sexual intimacy from their husbands, even during moments of exhaustion.

    Veekee shared that one of the key lessons from her marital experience is the importance of consistent emotional and physical connection. According to her, even when a woman feels too tired to fully engage, making an effort to meet her partner’s needs — however minimal — can significantly strengthen the relationship.

    “I’ve been married for almost a year and a half. And I’m telling you, don’t deny your husband sex. There are days you’re so tired that the last thing you want is anyone touching you,” she explained.

    In a vivid and controversial moment, she illustrated her point by saying that sometimes a husband’s needs may be obvious, and even minimal cooperation from his wife can make a difference.

    “There are days you might see him and think he’s close to breaking down. My sister, just lie down — you don’t have to do anything. Sometimes, just being available helps.”

    While her comments sparked mixed reactions online, Veekee also emphasized the importance of communication and mutual understanding in marriage. She encouraged women to be honest about their limits, especially on days when they are emotionally or physically drained.

    “On days when you’re not extremely tired, try to explain gently and lovingly. Let him see that you’re also exhausted, but still making an effort,” she said.

    The designer’s remarks have ignited both support and criticism on social media, as many reflect on the roles of intimacy, effort, and communication in modern marriages.

  • “How to stay classy”- Omotola sends message to young Women

    “How to stay classy”- Omotola sends message to young Women

    Veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde has shared a heartfelt message aimed at uplifting young women, encouraging them to embrace their individuality and focus on personal growth.

    In a recent Instagram Story, the mother of four revealed she was moved to speak out after seeing a post from a young girl expressing feelings of confusion and uncertainty. Omotola offered words of reassurance, reminding women that everyone’s path unfolds in its own time, and that societal or cultural pressures shouldn’t dictate their worth or direction.

    “Being different is not a weakness it’s what makes you unique,” she said, urging women to see their individuality as a strength, not something to hide or be ashamed of.

    She also encouraged stepping back from the pressures of social media and investing time in self-improvement. “Start working on yourself. Do things that energize you and give your life meaning. Even I take breaks from social media regularly. Fill your space with things that bring hope and happiness.”

    Omotola went on to recommend cultivating a spiritual foundation as a source of lasting peace. “If you don’t already know Him, my sincere advice is to seek a personal relationship with Jesus. It’s changed my life, and I believe it will bring joy to your journey too,” she shared.

    Wrapping up her message, she reassured young women that better days lie ahead: “You may not see it now, but stay the course. Your smile will return—you’ll see.”

  • Deputy Chief Whip defends men’s rights in Senate: ‘Glad women have condemned behaviours of their own’

    Deputy Chief Whip defends men’s rights in Senate: ‘Glad women have condemned behaviours of their own’

    Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Onyekachi Nwebonyi, said on Wednesday that men’s rights in Nigeria should not be undermined while protecting women’s rights.

    Nwebonyi (APC–Ebonyi North) made the call at Nkaliki, headquarters of Abakaliki Local Government Area, while distributing farm inputs to farmers across four LGAs in his district.

    He expressed concern over recent Senate events, which he said signalled negatively for women’s political participation and appeared to undermine the rights of men.

    “I support women’s rights, but not at the expense of men’s rights,” Nwebonyi stated while addressing the gathering.

    He criticised situations where women made unfounded allegations or rudely interrupted men during Senate sessions, calling such acts unacceptable.

    “We’re glad that many women have also condemned these behaviours from a few of their own,” he added.

    The senator said that recent developments had ensured equal respect for the rights of both men and women in the country.

    “We must respect one another, especially our mothers. However, arrogant individuals should be removed from leadership,” he remarked.

    Nwebonyi encouraged Nigerians to embrace agriculture, noting the government’s commitment to diversifying the economy under President Bola Tinubu.

    “Agriculture was once Nigeria’s economic backbone before oil was discovered,” he said.

    He added that he distributes farm inputs annually to support local farmers in his constituency, who largely rely on farming.

    He emphasised the need for timely distribution of inputs to ensure farmers benefit during planting seasons, not during harvest periods.

    The senator also urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Tinubu’s administration, which he said is working to improve citizens’ wellbeing.

    Chief Ebere Nwogba, Chairman of Abakaliki LGA, thanked the senator and promised continued support for his initiatives.

    Mrs Chioma Nwafor, a beneficiary, also expressed gratitude and pledged to use the distributed items effectively and responsibly.

    NAN reports that several farmers received inputs including fertilisers, rice seedlings, herbicides, and more.

    Recalls that the senator was recently involved in verbal exchanges with several prominent women in the country.

  • World Health Day 2025: Tolu Bankole calls for protection of Mothers and Newborns

    World Health Day 2025: Tolu Bankole calls for protection of Mothers and Newborns

    On monday, Nigeria joined the global community in commemorating World Health Day 2025 with a powerful call to action under the theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.” The focus this year is on maternal and newborn health, an urgent issue that demands collective efforts to ensure every woman and child has access to quality healthcare during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period.

    In a statement released to mark the day, Hon. Tolu Bankole, Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti, highlighted the critical importance of maternal and newborn health as the foundation for strong families and a prosperous nation. The statement emphasized that the health of mothers and babies is not only vital for individuals but also for the entire nation’s future.

    Globally, approximately 300,000 women die every year due to complications related to pregnancy or childbirth, while over 2 million newborns die or are stillborn. These tragic deaths are largely preventable, yet they persist, with one life lost every seven seconds due to inadequate care.
    Bankole said. “Every loss represents a life that could have been saved with timely medical intervention. This is why we must act now.”

    The statement also acknowledged the significant strides made by the Nigerian government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Bankole commended the administration’s ongoing efforts to revitalize primary healthcare centers across the country, which have significantly improved access to essential services for millions of Nigerians. Increased budgetary allocation to health, particularly maternal and child health initiatives, along with expanded health insurance coverage, have been key areas of focus for the government.

    According to him, the administration has prioritized the recruitment and training of healthcare workers, particularly midwives and community health officers, to ensure that even the most rural and underserved communities have access to skilled care.
    Bankole also pointed to the improvements in healthcare infrastructure and the provision of modern medical equipment in federal health institutions as critical to strengthening the overall capacity of Nigeria’s health system.

    Chairman of the Governing Board urged Nigerians to prioritize their health, particularly during pregnancy and the early years of a child’s life.

    He called on women to attend regular antenatal and postnatal checkups and for families to support one another in seeking timely medical attention. Bankole further emphasized the need for Nigeria’s health system to evolve, addressing not only obstetric complications but also mental health, noncommunicable diseases, and other reproductive health challenges.

    “We must raise awareness about maternal and newborn health, advocate for increased investment in healthcare, and support frontline health workers who are integral to our healthcare system,” he said.

  • Watch out! Our women are fighting back – By Etim Etim

    Watch out! Our women are fighting back – By Etim Etim

    Since late February when Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan nearly brought down the roof of the Senate, wagging her finger at the Senate President and shouting, ‘’I’m not afraid of you’’, Nigerian women have found their voice and are rising to assert their influence. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment allegation against Akpabio and her relentless pursuit of the matter have further pumped up our women fold; creating a sense in them that they can’t remain silent further. The other day at the airport, a woman caused a stir as she shouted at a middle aged man, ‘’If you cross me, I will deal ruthlessly with you’’. I don’t know what the matter was, but I had to quickly walk away from the scene. On talk shows, women activists are punching the air to make their points on the issue of gender equality and reiterate their support for the embattled Kogi Senator. Last Saturday, a female guest in a TV interview looked intensely into the camera and bellowed out: ‘’we’ve been quiet for so long. It’s time we, the women, came out of our shells and teach the men some lessons’’. But nothing prepared me for the shock of last night when Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, former Vice President for Africa at the World Bank and former Minister of Education, nearly came to blows with Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi, deputy chief whip of the senate. I have never seen Ezekweisili so agitated, irascible and emotional.

    It was at the sitting of the Senate Committee on Ethics where Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition against Akapbio was to be heard, and the former minister was there in her capacity as the Country Chair of Women Political Leaders (WPL), a nonprofit foundation that operates as a global network of female political leaders. Nwebonyi attended as a representative of the Senate President, who has been in the centre of the storm. According to Nwebonyi, trouble started when the petitioner and his lawyer refused to go on oath before they could make their presentation. Nwebonyi told Arise News: ‘’When they refused to take the oath, I asked the Chairman of the Committee to call off the meeting as the petitioner was not ready. That’s when Dr. Ezekwesili told me ‘shut up your mouth. You are a hooligan’. A shouting match then ensued. Nigerians are sharply divided on who to blame for the altercation. While some argue that as a man, Nwebonyi should have kept quiet and received Ezekwesili’s insults with equanimity, others claim that the former minister ought not to have been rude to the man, a principal officer of the Nigerian Senate, no matter her status. In any case, Nwebonyi was not even addressing her when she interjected with ‘’Shut up your mouth’’.

    I have known Ezekwesili right from our days in the university in the 1980s as a respectful, courteous and good-natured, but independent minded person, and I have never thought that a day would come when she would call a senator a ‘’hooligan’’. The anger, emotions and the adrenalins we have seen in Nigerian women since the Akpoti-Uduaghan saga have been enormous. Many have thrown away self restraint as they try to make their point. This is their ‘’Me too’’ moment. I recall that #MeToo started in the US as a social movement and awareness campaign against sexual abuse, sexual harassment and rape culture in which women publicize their experiences of sexual abuse or harassment. The phrase ‘’Me Too’’ was initially used in this context in the US in 2006, on Myspace, by a sexual assault survivor and activist, Ms Tarana Burke; and the hashtag #MeToo was used in 2017 as a way to draw attention to the magnitude of the problem in the US. ‘’MeeToo’’ is therefore meant to empower those who have been sexually assaulted through empathy, solidarity and strength in numbers, by visibly demonstrating the depth of the problems, especially at workplace. So far, Nigerian activists have not used the hashtag #MeToo in their advocacy, but I will not be surprised if someone comes up with a typically Nigerian creative slogan. It’s not long ago that we had #EndSARs; #EndBadGovernance and #NoGreeForAnybody.

    Now that personalities like Oby Ezekwesili have come out to openly identify with Akpoti-Uduaghan, it is important that Nigerian men realize just how important this issue is to our womenfolk; how sensitive they are to such matters, and that the women are fighting back in unimaginable ways. To my fellow men, let me warn that the era of leering lustfully at women or making comments about a woman’s bust or length of her skirt is gone. You could be accused of sexual harassment for passing what you think is an innocuous joke. Last May, Mrs Simisola Ajayi, an assistant to the Minister of Foreign Affairs had accused the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Ibrahim Lamuwa, of sexual harassment. Mrs Ajayi had petitioned the then Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Folashade Yemi-Esan of serially making passes at her despite her status as a married woman. Then Head of Service promptly suspended the Perm Sec, but the matter had since died. Attempts by the House of Representatives to weigh into the matter quickly fizzled out. Activists like Dr. Ezekwesili did not even bother to comment on it, perhaps because Mrs Ajayi is not a senator. That’s how Nigeria works. If you are not a big man (or woman), nobody fights your fight. The reason Natasha’s matter has become an international embarrassment is because she is a beautiful senator married to a Warri chief. If she were a teacher in my village, nobody would listen to her even if her headmaster had torn her skirt!

    Nigerian women are fighting back to assert their position as equal partners in society and demand for respect, recognition and a place at the table. But like all struggles, this one requires good strategies and long-term planning; not emotions and insults.

  • Hardship: Nigerian women now opt for ‘tokunvoh’ bras

    Hardship: Nigerian women now opt for ‘tokunvoh’ bras

    The second-hand underwear market in Lagos is experiencing significant growth, which is not news.

    What is new is the rising demand for used bras.

    Some women say that their decisions when buying bras are based on affordability, durability, and quality.

    Many say they choose fairly used bras, popularly known as “Okrika,” because they are mostly available, affordable, and durable.

    In Lagos State, in addition to busy markets such as Tejuosho, Balogun, and Katangowa, thrift bras can be found in smaller markets, stores, and roadside traders.

    Peace Okeke, also known as ‘Lady Bra’ among her customers in Festac Town, in Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area of the state, says she has been in the trade for over 18 years.

    According to Mrs Okeke, many of her customers have come to trust high-quality, first-grade thrift bras since she started the business.

    Mrs Okeke, who sells thrift and new bras, says first-grade second-hand bras are becoming increasingly popular for those seeking affordability, durability, and comfort.

    “I have been in the business for 18 years and have seen how people’s preferences changed. Most people prefer it. One, it’s durable and long-lasting when in use. Secondly, it’s cheap, it’s affordable. Anybody can afford it,” she said.

    She notes that new bras, particularly from top-tier international brands, can cost between N15,000 and N50,000 or more. Still, thrift bras of similar quality are available for as low as N5,000.

    “People buy new ones, but the average person, especially those with limited income, can comfortably get thrift bras for N5,000. You can also get three bras for the same price as one new bra, and they will last as long as you need them to,” she explains.

    Health concerns
    While some may hesitate to buy second-hand bras, mainly due to social stigma or hygiene concerns, Mrs Okeke stressed the value of purchasing thrift items.

    She says thrift bras are the better choice for those on a budget.

    “The economic situation in the country is complicated. Some people have the money to get N15,000 or N20,000. I will advise those who cannot afford to: Instead of spending N15,000 on one bra, you can use that N15,000 to get three good bras.

    “They will last you as long as you want without spoiling unless you decide to change your underwear,” she said.

    Regarding hygiene, Mrs Okeke says washing them properly with warm water and salt is the simple solution.

    She says her customers have not reported any issues with hygiene and infections and that some even use the same cleaning method for thrift underwear, which she says sells in large quantities.

    “Even people go as far as using it to wash thrift pants, and they wear it. No germs. No diseases,” she says.

    Also, Aisha Lawal, a trader at Orile Market, says the economic hardship has pushed many women to seek out thrift bras as an alternative.

    “I sell both new and fairly used bras, but the fairly used ones sell faster, and many women prefer them because they are stronger, cheaper and last longer than the new ones,” she says.

    Mrs Lawal, who has been in the business for over 15 years, says customers can get a good-quality thrift bra for as low as N1,500 to N2,000, while a new one of the same quality will cost N20,000 or more.

    She says durability and affordability are the selling point of thrift bras.

    “Unlike many new bras that can lose their elasticity and quality quickly, significantly cheaper mass-produced ones, thrift bras, often sourced from reputable regions like the UK, are known for their resilience. Even those with larger busts, frequently overlooked in mainstream stores, can find a reasonably priced, well-fitting, long-lasting bra from thrift stores.

    Mrs Lawal advises buyers to soak their thrift bras in hot water and disinfectant before washing to kill germs.

    She acknowledges the source of quality bras: “Some of these fairly used bras come from the UK and USA, and they are of better quality than the cheap, new ones.”

    Again, people’s concerns are hygiene and proper care about second-hand items, especially underwear.

    According to Olayemi Adebayo, she buys thrift bras in good condition because they are more affordable and, most times, better than new ones.

    Mrs Adebayo says she has not had issues with hygiene because she washes it properly before use.

    More perspectives
    However, Tolu Adebiyi, a banker, says that quality, hygiene, and perception of used items are also significant considerations for her when buying underwear.

    “I only buy new bras. I believe undergarments should be personal and new. I don’t feel comfortable wearing something that someone else has used. I understand that fairly used bras are more affordable, but I would rather save and buy new ones,” she says.

    Remilekun Moses, a lingerie businesswoman, says thrift trends will not impact underwear brands.

    “They have their market share and offer more stylish and sensual designs using luxury fabrics,’’ she says.

    According to Moses, a digital marketer, local and international underwear brands are expanding their reach by targeting the middle and upper classes through social media.

    Thrifts are becoming more than just a trend; they are a lifestyle for many.

    People increasingly turn to second-hand goods to save money because they are often made with higher-quality materials that last longer.

    For many, thrift bras are no longer seen as second-rate options but innovative, practical solutions that deliver quality and affordability.

    (NAN)

  • IWD: You’re bedrock of our nation, Tinubu to women

    IWD: You’re bedrock of our nation, Tinubu to women

    President Bola Tinubu on Saturday,  celebrated the resilience, brilliance, and indispensable contributions of Nigerian women, in a personal message to mark the 2025  International Women’s Day.

    He described Nigerian women as the bedrock of the nation, driving progress from homes to farms, boardrooms, and communities.

    He said, yet, 30 years after the Beijing Declaration, too many women still faced barriers that limited their potentials.

    “Our administration is committed in our Renewed Hope pledge to dismantle obstacles, expand access to finance, and ensure equitable opportunities in governance, agriculture, and every sector.

    “To our mothers, daughters, sisters – your strength fuels Nigeria’s future. Together, we rise!” the President wrote.

  • Canadian authorities order deportation of retired Nigerian police officer, wife

    Canadian authorities order deportation of retired Nigerian police officer, wife

    Canadian immigration authorities have reportedly denied asylum to Wale Francis Akinpelu, a retired Nigerian police officer, and his wife, Ajarat Mojirola.

    Wale Akinpelu
    They were denied asylum due to concerns over his past service in the Nigerian police force.

    The decision was based on allegations of human rights violations linked to the Nigerian police, which has faced accusations of corruption and misconduct.

    The couple left Nigeria in 2017, claiming they were fleeing threats from a criminal gang.

    Mrs. Akinpelu first traveled to the United States in May 2017, and her husband joined her in October after resigning from the police.

    In 2018, they moved to Canada and applied for refugee protection, arguing that they were at risk of harm if they returned to Nigeria.

    However, Canadian authorities questioned Mr. Akinpelu’s credibility due to his association with the Nigerian police.

    His application was suspended, and later, a federal court upheld its rejection, ruling that his past employment disqualified him from asylum under human rights laws.

    The couple’s applications were processed separately.

    Mrs. Akinpelu’s request was initially denied in 2019 after authorities found inconsistencies in her claims.

    She appealed the decision, leading to a new hearing, but her asylum application was rejected again in February 2023.

    The court ruled that her evidence contained contradictions, and some documents appeared fraudulent.

    In her legal challenge, she argued that the rejection process was unfair.

    However, Justice Norris ruled against her, stating that her claims relied heavily on her husband’s statements, which lacked credibility.

    The judge pointed out that she failed to provide substantial proof to support her fears of persecution.

    With both asylum requests denied, Canadian authorities are set to proceed with the deportation process for the couple.

  • Affirmative action for women, a necessary corrective measure – Speaker Abbas

    Affirmative action for women, a necessary corrective measure – Speaker Abbas

    …as Reps meet state speakers on gender-based violence, constitution amendment bills

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has stated that affirmative action for women is not a privilege and undemocratic, but a corrective measure that must be taken to ensure fairness and gender balance in the polity.

    The Speaker said it has become necessary to mainstream women’s and gender issues in the constitution, statutes, policies, and budgetary processes of Nigeria.

    The Speaker made this known in his keynote address at a session with Speakers of State Houses of Assembly to Commemorate the Conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) held at the National Assembly on Monday.

    Speaker Abbas noted that the session was to commemorate the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), a campaign that began on November 25, with the People’s House taking a prominent role. He recalled how he led an advocacy walk from the National Assembly to the Force Headquarters to submit a petition to the Inspector General of Police.

    “This action signified our resolve to combat violence against Nigerian women and to reinforce our collective commitment to creating a safer and more equitable society,” he added.

    The Speaker noted that the 16 days had served as a rallying point, uniting diverse stakeholders in a shared mission to protect and empower women and girls across Nigeria.

    He also noted that the National Assembly has long been at the forefront of the fight against GBV and the advocacy for greater women’s representation.

    He said since 1999, the parliament has championed transformative legislative reforms, including the enactment of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act; the Child’s Rights Act, and the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act.

    The Speaker further noted that the 10th House has amplified these efforts through its Legislative Agenda, which prioritises constitutional reforms to promote women’s political participation and representation.

    Speaker Abbas said the agenda reflects the parliament’s recognition of the indispensable role women play in governance and the broader societal fabric.

    “Women are the cornerstone of our families and communities, yet their political representation remains unacceptably low. This imbalance must change—not for improved statistics but for the transformative value women bring to governance, leadership, and policymaking,” he said.

    While emphasising that the importance of eradicating GBV and promoting women’s representation cannot be overstated, he stated that a society that protects its women and leverages their potential is one that secures its future.

    “Women are the glue that holds our families and communities together. Despite this, systemic barriers, including cultural norms, economic inequality, and inadequate legal protections, have hindered their full participation in political and public life,” he said.

    The Speaker pointed out that the 10th Assembly has taken proactive steps to address these barriers.

    “Recognising past pitfalls, we have commenced the constitutional amendment process early to allow for extensive consultation and consensus-building,” he said, stressing that the House Committee on Constitution Amendment has embarked on robust sensitisation and advocacy efforts, engaging stakeholders to build support for provisions that will constitutionalise greater women’s representation.

    Speaker Abbas stated: “These efforts go beyond tokenism. Affirmative action for women is not undemocratic; it is a necessary corrective measure to address historical inequities and unlock our nation’s full potential. Many African countries, such as Rwanda and South Africa, have successfully enshrined affirmative action in their constitutions.”

    The Speaker said state Houses of Assembly are pivotal to achieving meaningful constitutional reforms, adding that the active participation and support of state speakers are crucial in ensuring that gender-focused amendments and legislation are adopted at the sub-national level.