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https://dailytrust.com/breaking-gwarzos-name-still-missing-on-updated-gubernatorial-list/

Governor Dauda Lawal has presented staff of office and official vehicles to 19 emirs in Zamfara State.

The coronation and presentation ceremony took place at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau, the state capital.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were His Eminence the Sultan of Sokoto, the Etsu Nupe and the Emir of Gwandu.

Following their oaths of office, Governor Lawal presented staff of office to 11 first class emirs and eight second class emirs.

Each newly coronated emir also received a GAC ULTRA SUV (2025/2026 model), a MIKANO ZNA HILUX vehicle and an EV ANTIQUE MODEL car (DDP). The vehicles are intended to support their travels and help them engage more closely with their communities.

In his remarks, Governor Lawal said the ceremony reflected his administration’s recognition of the traditional institution as an enduring part of society and an important partner in promoting peace, stability and development.

He noted that the ceremony also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to giving traditional rulers the recognition and institutional support they need to carry out their responsibilities effectively.

He said, ‘The staff of office being presented today signifies the authority entrusted to you by the State,’ he said.

‘It also represents a responsibility to govern your respective domains with fairness, wisdom, integrity, and compassion.

‘I expect every emir to carry out their responsibilities without discrimination, uphold justice, and ensure that the traditional institution remains accessible to all members of the community.

‘Our people must find guidance, fairness, and reassurance in their traditional rulers.

‘Recognising the importance of royal palaces as centres of traditional authority and community engagement, I reaffirm our commitment to completing the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the remaining royal palaces.

‘This is part of our broader effort to strengthen these institutions and improve the conditions in which traditional rulers carry out their responsibilities.

‘We are also providing official vehicles to the 19 emirs. These include GAC ULTRA SUVs (2025/2026 models), MIKANO ZNA HILUX vehicles, and EV ANTIQUE MODEL cars (DDP).

‘This provision is intended to facilitate travel across your respective emirates, encourage closer engagement with your communities, and improve coordination with government institutions.

‘I expect these vehicles to be properly maintained and used responsibly in support of your official duties.’

The governor also urged the royal fathers to build a productive partnership between their emirates and the State Government.

Earlier, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, urged the newly coronated emirs to remain fully loyal to the authority. He also encouraged them to respect and uphold the dignity of the traditional institution as they discharge their duties.

Tinubu hosts Ribadu, Gbaja, 5 govs to dinner in Makkah

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has beseeched Almighty Allah to transform Nigeria’s rich diversity into a source of prosperity, unity, peace and sustainable development for the benefit of all Nigerians.

President Tinubu offered the prayer on Sunday in the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia, while hosting members of his delegation to a dinner.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement after the dinner quoted the President as saying that he hoped ‘Nigeria’s ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity would continue to serve as a source of strength and national advancement rather than division’.

Tinubu also stressed the need for citizens to embrace mutual understanding, peaceful coexistence and a shared commitment to the country’s progress.

He prayed that Almighty Allah would bless Nigeria with enduring peace, harmony and prosperity, and grant the nation’s leaders the ‘wisdom, courage and foresight to steer the country towards greater development and improved living conditions for its people.

‘May Almighty Allah bless Nigeria, convert our diversity into prosperity as a country,’ the President said.

Tinubu also prayed for divine guidance and protection for Nigerians at home and abroad, asking Allah to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among citizens and inspire a renewed spirit of patriotism, compassion and service to the nation.

The President noted that Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources, coupled with the talents, creativity and enterprise of its diverse population, provided a strong foundation for building a prosperous and inclusive nation.

The dinner with members of his delegation in Makkah provided an opportunity for fellowship and reflection on Nigerians’ shared aspirations for a peaceful, united and prosperous country.

Tinubu urged Nigerians of all faiths and backgrounds to keep working together in the national interest, expressing confidence that, with faith in Almighty Allah, unity of purpose, and collective determination, Nigeria would overcome its challenges and realise its full potential.

On his part, Chairman of BUA, Alhaji Abdulsamad Isiaka Rabiu, reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to peace, unity and prosperity of Nigeria.

‘Today is actually the third dinner we’re having with His Excellency Mr President since we came to Makkah on Thursday night or Friday morning when Mr President arrived.

‘So, we discussed, and the discussion was, you know, to always continue to pray for Nigeria, for peace, for unity and for Nigeria’s prosperity. To also thank His Excellency for his passion, for what he’s doing for Nigeria.

‘And also for us, it’s quite important because, as I said, it has given us the opportunity to come and pray not only for ourselves and our families, but also for Nigeria.

‘We will continue to support His Excellency in whatever capacity we can and definitely, as you all know, Mr President is very passionate about the country. He’s working very hard, and we’ll continue to support him,’ he said.

Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, said the forum is overwhelmed by the President’s passion and commitment to achieving a united and prosperous nation.

‘Only Allah can reward you; we will continue to pray for you daily and pray for Nigeria that you lead. May Allah continue to strengthen you in making the right decisions, strengthen your wisdom, your boldness, your audacity, your courage. May Allah lead you to the right path,’ he said.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Lateef Fagbemi SAN, also prayed for Almighty Allah to continue to strengthen the President in his determination to deliver governance and justice to all Nigerians irrespective of their religion or ethnic backgrounds.

The dinner was attended by Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Jigawa State Governor Mohammed Namadi, Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu, Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Chief Executive Officer of Oando Plc Mr Wale Tinubu, Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters Ibrahim Kabiru Masari, and Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, among others.

Soludo to South-East: Dump opposition, embrace Tinubu

Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has called on South-East political leaders to end opposition politics and strengthen the region’s relationship with the Federal Government ahead of the 2027 elections.

Soludo made the appeal on Sunday at a political stakeholders’ meeting in Awka attended by representatives of APGA, APC, PDP and Accord Party.

He described the emerging alliance of political parties backing President Bola Tinubu’s re-election as a major political shift, urging members to mobilise support for the President through grassroots campaigns.

The governor argued that Tinubu’s 5,000 votes in Anambra during the 2023 presidential election had helped attract federal projects to the state and the wider South-East.

He maintained that greater electoral support would bring more benefits to the region.

Soludo also acknowledged the Federal Government’s efforts to address economic challenges, particularly foreign exchange and fiscal stability, but said more work was needed.

He directed coalition members to strengthen their mobilisation structures and adopt door-to-door campaigns, warning them against being distracted by opposition attacks on social media.

Earlier, APGA National Chairman, Sly Ezeokenwa, described the alliance as unprecedented and pledged the party’s support for Soludo’s political direction.

Anambra APC Chairman, Emma Anosike, also welcomed the realignment, urging political parties to work together to advance the state’s interests.

The country probably deserves better

As Semirara Mining and Power Corp.’s 50-year coal-operating contract with the government for Semirara Island in Antique approaches expiration next year, a number of questions have been raised by SMPC about the propriety of auctioning the Semirara coal blocks.

In February, the government rejected SMPC’s bid to extend its coal operating contract for an additional 13 years, after the Department of Justice opined that constitutional and legal limits cap the maximum duration of such natural resource agreements at 50 years.

Following the DOJ opinion, the Department of Energy announced that it is placing the 10 coal blocks on Semirara Island up for competitive bidding.

Now, the Consunji-led SMPC is accusing the DOE of disregarding established bidding procedures in the Semirara coal mine auction, alleging, among other things, opaque rules and an asset-surrender requirement that, according to the company, effectively bars the incumbent operator from competing.

It also questioned the DOE’s decision to replace technical capability with the highest financial bid as the sole basis for awarding the contract, saying the highest bidder with zero mining experience will most likely produce zero coal output and zero government share.

SMPC, which operates the country’s largest coal mine, supplies 95.4 to 97 percent of domestic coal output and exports a significant portion of its volume to Asian markets like China, South Korea, India and Brunei.

According to the company, the planned auction will kill billions of pesos for no gain. ‘Why kill the golden goose for zero gain,’ it said.

As SMPC’s nearly 50-year operating contract expires in July 2027, we can’t help but ask: what has the country actually gained from almost half a century of mining one of its most valuable energy resources?

SMPC says that over its 29 years of operation, it has paid P70.5 billion to the government and contributed another P600 million annually to the town of Caluya in Antique, transforming it into one of the country’s wealthiest municipalities, not to mention supporting over 4,000 jobs.

Staggering numbers, no doubt – but relative to what? After all, the operator is required by law to pay a government share of three percent of FOB gross sales or 30 percent of net proceeds, excluding the royalty itself and corporate taxes. About 60 percent goes to the national government while 40 percent is shared by the host local government units. Thus, operators must remit this amount by law.

With respect to the host communities. SMPC’s own disclosures show that nearly P22 billion in government royalties has been allocated to the Caluya municipality and Barangay Semirara since 1997. That is a substantial sum for a relatively small island community, but much was spent on better health care, education, infrastructure and other essential services and how much was allocated to benefit SMPC’s own mining operations in terms of access roads?

SMPC operates a 15-bed infirmary on Semirara Island. But how do residents who need emergency surgery or specialized medical treatment get care? How accessible are hospitals on the mainland, particularly during emergencies?

Similar questions arise over the cost of basic goods, access to education and the overall quality of life on the island. Have decades of mining revenues made a measurable difference?

These are not necessarily shortcomings attributable to SMPC because local governments and national agencies are responsible for delivering many public services. But that makes a proper accounting of both company spending and government royalty allocations all the more important.

The company’s own social development commitments also warrant examination. How much has been spent, which projects have been completed, and what lasting benefits have they produced?

Beyond community development, there is the question of how the coal business itself is accounted for.

Industry observers note that SMPC operates the Semirara mine and owns coal-fired power plants in Calaca, Batangas, which in the past traded most of its capacity in the spot market instead of actively and competitively seeking power supply contracts with electric cooperatives and distribution utilities such as Meralco. Given these related operations, what independent mechanisms verify coal shipments, transfer values and the accuracy of government royalty computations?

While the country imports coal for its energy needs, SMPC exports most of its coal production. How is that helping the country’s energy security?

All these questions lead back to the impending bidding. SMPC argues that its decades of experience give it an advantage over potential competitors. That may be true. Mining requires technical expertise, substantial capital and an understanding of the risks involved.

But experience should also make performance easier to evaluate. After nearly 50 years, the government should have enough information to determine whether contractual obligations have been met, how the resource has been managed and what benefits have accrued to the public.

That assessment should help shape the next coal operating contract, regardless of who wins.

The government needs an operator capable of sustaining production, investing in the mine, meeting environmental obligations and ensuring that host communities receive lasting benefits. It also needs clear reporting requirements and enforceable commitments, not merely assurances based on past performance.

More importantly, the country needs an operator that can commit to sharing the economic benefits of Semirara coal with Filipino consumers through lower electricity prices and a higher government share in the returns from the mining operation. Such an outcome should come from an open, non-discriminatory bidding process for proven energy resources.

Competitive bidding need not mean dismantling a productive operation. It is an opportunity to determine whether the country can secure better terms for a resource that ultimately belongs to the Filipino people.

After nearly five decades, surely that question deserves an answer before another long-term contract is awarded.

Heal the World Ministries donates N4m books to three Ondo schools

IN a move to promote educational development and demonstrate the practical expression of Christian love, Heal The World Ministries International, a faith-based organisation, has donated books worth N4 million to three secondary schools in Ondo State.

The donation, which forms part of the ministry’s commitment to charitable service, community development and the welfare of the less privileged, was extended to The Apostolic High School, Ilara-Mokin; Comprehensive High School, Ilara-Mokin; and Oyemekun Grammar School, Akure.

The initiative underscores the organisation’s belief that Christian faith should translate into practical acts of kindness, generosity and service to humanity, particularly in areas that contribute to the development and future of young people.

Speaking on the intervention, the convener of Heal The World Ministries International, Pastor (Dr) Tola Olukilede, described the donation as an expression of genuine worship and service acceptable to God, stressing that Christianity must go beyond religious observances and verbal declarations of faith.

According to him, the responsibility of believers extends to demonstrating God’s love through tangible interventions that address the needs of individuals and communities.

He explained that providing students with relevant learning materials was a deliberate investment in their academic development, intellectual growth and future contributions to society.

Olukilede noted that education remained a powerful instrument for personal advancement, social transformation and national development, adding that access to appropriate learning resources could strengthen students’ academic performance, promote reading culture and broaden their intellectual horizons.

He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to its charitable mandate, which includes supporting widows, assisting the needy and promoting education as a tool for empowering individuals and communities.

The cleric also called on individuals, religious organisations, corporate bodies and well-meaning Nigerians to embrace the culture of giving by supporting educational institutions and other initiatives capable of improving the welfare of society.

He urged Christians and other stakeholders to recognise community service as an important aspect of social responsibility, noting that collective efforts were necessary to create opportunities for the younger generation.

Reacting to the gesture, the National President of The Apostolic High School, Ilara-Mokin, Students Association, Mr Kehinde Ekunrin, expressed appreciation to the ministry and its convener for the intervention, describing it as a significant contribution to the educational advancement of students.

Ekunrin said the donation demonstrated the positive impact faith-based organisations could make when their religious convictions were translated into meaningful community engagement.

He noted that the provision of books would enhance students’ access to learning resources, encourage reading habits and support their quest for academic excellence.

He also commended Olukilede for recognising education as a worthy cause deserving sustained investment, expressing the hope that the gesture would inspire other organisations, alumni associations, philanthropists and public-spirited individuals to support schools and contribute to the development of young people.

The association further emphasised the importance of partnerships between educational institutions, charitable organisations and other stakeholders in creating an enabling environment for students to acquire knowledge, develop their potential and prepare for responsible leadership.

9 signs of heart failure you should know

Heart failure does not mean that the heart has stopped working. It means the heart is no longer able to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs effectively. The condition can develop slowly over time or become worse within a short period.

As the heart struggles to keep up, fluid can build up in the lungs and other parts of the body, while reduced blood flow can leave a person tired and weak.

Some symptoms may be mild at first and easily mistaken for normal tiredness or aging. Recognising the warning signs early can help a person get medical attention before the condition becomes more serious.

In this article, Tribune Online highlights 9 signs that may occur with heart failure.

Shortness of breath

One of the most common symptoms is difficulty breathing. At first, a person may become breathless while walking, climbing stairs or doing activities that previously caused no problem. As heart failure progresses, the breathlessness may occur with less activity and, in more severe cases, even while resting.

Fluid accumulating in the lungs can make it harder to breathe normally. Not every case of breathlessness is caused by heart failure. Asthma, lung infections, anaemia and other conditions can also cause it. However, unexplained or worsening breathlessness should be medically assessed.

Swelling of the feet and ankles

When the heart is not pumping effectively, the body may retain more fluid. This can cause swelling , particularly around the feet, ankles and lower legs. The swelling may become more noticeable towards the end of the day. Shoes or socks that normally fit comfortably may suddenly feel tight.

Leg swelling has many possible causes, including problems with the veins, kidneys or liver, so it should not automatically be assumed to be heart failure. However, swelling accompanied by breathlessness, rapid weight gain or increasing tiredness deserves medical attention.

Getting unusually tired or weak

A person with heart failure may find that ordinary activities require much more effort than before. Walking to a nearby place, climbing stairs, shopping or doing household chores may leave the person unusually exhausted .

This can happen because the heart is not delivering enough blood and oxygen to the muscles and other tissues during activity. Fatigue is a common symptom of many health conditions, so it does not confirm heart failure on its own. Persistent or worsening tiredness should be discussed with a healthcare professional, particularly when it occurs alongside other symptoms.

Difficulty breathing when lying down

Some people with heart failure find it harder to breathe when they lie flat. They may need to sleep with several pillows or sit more upright before they can breathe comfortably. This symptom is known as orthopnoea.

It can happen because lying down changes the way blood and fluid are distributed in the body, which may increase pressure and congestion in the lungs. A new need to sleep sitting up or with significantly more pillows than usual should not be ignored.

Waking up suddenly at night because of breathlessness

Another warning sign is waking suddenly from sleep struggling to breathe. A person may feel the need to sit up, stand or move towards a window to catch their breath. This is known as paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnoea.

It can occur when fluid shifts towards the chest after a person has been lying down for some time. Repeated episodes of waking at night with severe breathlessness require medical assessment, especially if they are becoming more frequent.

Rapid or irregular heartbeat

The heart may beat faster as it tries to compensate for reduced pumping ability.

Some people may notice a racing, pounding or irregular heartbeat. Heart failure can also occur alongside abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation.

Palpitations do not necessarily mean that a person has heart failure. They can also occur because of anxiety, certain medicines, anaemia, thyroid disorders and other conditions. However, a fast or irregular heartbeat accompanied by chest pain, fainting, severe weakness or serious breathlessness requires urgent medical attention.

Persistent cough or wheezing

A cough that does not go away can sometimes be linked to fluid congestion in the lungs.

Some people with heart failure may also experience wheezing. The symptoms may become worse when lying down or at night.

A persistent cough can have many causes, including infections, asthma and allergies. But when it occurs together with breathlessness, swelling or other signs of fluid retention, heart failure should be considered. Severe breathing difficulty or coughing up pink, frothy sputum is an emergency and requires immediate medical care.

Sudden increase in body weight

A quick increase in weight over a few days may sometimes be caused by fluid retention rather than an increase in body fat. For people already diagnosed with heart failure, regular weight monitoring can detect changes in fluid levels early.

A sudden increase in weight should be reported according to the instructions given by the person’s healthcare team. People who have not been diagnosed with heart failure but experience rapid unexplained weight gain, particularly together with swollen legs or breathlessness, should also seek medical advice.

Prominent veins in the neck

Heart failure can increase pressure in the veins returning blood to the heart. As a result, the veins in the neck may become more prominent. Doctors refer to this as jugular venous distension.

This is usually detected during a physical examination rather than something a person needs to diagnose at home. When present alongside other signs of fluid congestion, prominent neck veins can provide an important clue that the heart is struggling to handle blood returning to it.

Trans-Saharan Superhighway to last longer before maintenance – APC’s Yilwatda

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has said the ongoing construction of the Akwanga, Jos and Gombe sections of the Trans-Saharan Superhighway is expected to last for a long time before requiring maintenance.

Yilwatda, who stated this during an inspection of the roads over the weekend, said the project was part of a larger initiative extending from Calabar through Ebonyi, Enugu, Benue and Abuja before reaching Jos.

According to him, the Trans-Saharan Superhighway will span more than 1,400 kilometres, connecting Nigeria’s South-South, South-East, North-Central and North-East geopolitical zones.

He described the construction as a significant infrastructure development, saying it would have a major impact on communities along the route.

‘Today, under the Leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have a project with hundreds of billions of naira committed to it.

‘Beyond just improving transportation, the Akwanga-Jos road project is designed to enhance security and community welfare. The road will feature traffic lights, surveillance cameras, police stations, and clinics, all strategically placed along the route to improve safety and healthcare access. This is not just a road; this is connecting communities. This is connecting customers, connecting markets, connecting people, improving security,’ he said.

He added that the Akwanga-Jos road project would feature 24-hour intelligent surveillance cameras, continuous lighting, dedicated police outposts and emergency trauma clinics to strengthen security along the strategic corridor.

The APC chairman said the security facilities were designed to protect travellers, monitor criminal activities and ensure rapid responses to emergencies along the route.

Briefing Yilwatda during the inspection, the project’s Equipment Coordinator and Public Relations Officer, Engr. James Baba, said heavy construction equipment had been deployed to the Jos axis following directives from the Federal Ministry of Works.

Baba said the contractor was working to complete at least 10 kilometres of road formation before Christmas, while another 30 kilometres was expected to be delivered next year.

He also provided an update on the project’s progress, saying test runs on the rigid pavement had commenced, with approximately 400 metres already completed.

‘Our target this year is to cover about 10 kilometers of earthwork before Christmas,’ Baba stated.

LASCOPA warns businesses against violating consumer protection laws

The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) warns all manufacturers, retailers and service providers across the State to comply fully with the Lagos State Consumer Protection Law 2025 (as amended) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018.

he General Manager, Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, Afolabi Solebo, issued the warning during an interview with select journalists in Lagos.

He said: ‘LASCOPA will now sanction businesses that deliberately fail to honour scheduled mediation sessions on legitimate consumer complaints. Where authorised by law, affected premises may be sealed. All businesses are required to treat consumer complaints and redress processes with utmost seriousness.

‘Practices that will attract regulatory intervention include unfair trade practices, misleading advertisements, deceptive pricing, hidden charges, poor service delivery, and the manufacture or sale of substandard, counterfeit or unsafe products’.

Solebo warned that offenders could face applicable penalties under the law, including fines, enforcement orders, suspension of operations, prosecution, or sealing of premises.

He appealed to consumers with unresolved complaints to remain patient, noting that delays often occur when businesses ignore mediation invitations. He urged all consumers to retain receipts, invoices, warranties and relevant records when filing complaints.

He reaffirmed Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to protecting consumers and building a fair business environment in Lagos. Consumer protection is a shared responsibility – businesses and consumers together build a transparent, accountable and truly consumer-friendly marketplace.

What Nigerians, Africa must learn from ‘Why Good Things Fall Apart’ – Fortune Ileleji

Artist and author Fortune Ileleji has examined why talented individuals, promising organisations and relationships often fail despite having the ingredients for success in his new book, The Law of Cohesion.

The book explores how the relationships between different elements can determine whether they work together towards a common goal or undermine one another.

Drawing on observations from human relationships, business, creative pursuits and everyday life, Ileleji argues that having the right people, ideas or resources does not automatically guarantee success if the different parts fail to work in harmony.

His argument raises questions relevant to Nigeria and Africa, where individual talent, ambition and resources do not always translate into collective progress.

According to Ileleji, the idea behind the book emerged from questions about why talented people struggle to build successful organisations, why relationships between people who love one another become dysfunctional, and why intelligent, ambitious and hardworking individuals sometimes fail to achieve their goals.

These questions led him to examine the connections between different parts of a system and how their interactions shape the outcome.

‘I became interested in the relationships between the parts. We tend to examine things individually, but a good part does not automatically produce a good whole,’ he said.

In The Law of Cohesion, Ileleji explores what enables different elements to complement one another rather than work at cross-purposes, arguing that the strength of a whole depends not only on the quality of its individual components but also on how they relate to one another.

The book reflects his broader interest in making complex realities easier to understand by identifying connections that are not always immediately apparent.

Rather than examining individual elements in isolation, he focuses on how they interact, what they reinforce or contradict, and the wider consequences of those relationships.

He said the same approach informs his work across painting, writing and his observations of business and everyday situations.

‘Sometimes the problem is not hidden at all. Every piece of information is already there. What is missing is the relationship between the pieces. Once that relationship becomes visible, something that seemed complicated can suddenly become obvious,’ he said.

Beyond organisations and human relationships, Ileleji extends the idea of cohesion to personal decisions, ambitions and long-term goals.

He argues that people can make seemingly sensible choices in different areas of their lives without recognising that those decisions may collectively lead them in a direction they never intended.

‘You can make sensible decisions about your career, relationships, ambitions, money, health and time, yet discover that together they are constructing a life you never consciously chose,’ he said.

He hopes the book will encourage readers to examine whether their decisions, priorities and pursuits complement one another or pull them in conflicting directions.

‘The Law of Cohesion gives you a way to see those relationships and ask whether the different parts of your life are actually strengthening the whole,’ he added.

Ileleji’s interest in creative expression began in childhood, when he watched his father sketch with a pen. He recalls being fascinated by how an image could emerge from a blank surface, turning an idea into something tangible.

Although he does not consider the experience the sole explanation for his artistic development, he regards it as an early introduction to the possibility of giving physical form to something internal.

The Law of Cohesion is available worldwide in print and digital editions through major book retailers.

No girl should miss school, feel ashamed because she can’t afford menstrual products – Ruth Chidiebere, founder, Extraordinary Female

Ruth Ozioma Chidiebere is the founder of Extraordinary Female and Extraordinary Stitches. In this interview by ADERONKE ADESANYA, she speaks on the challenges of building sustainable ventures, tackling period poverty, and expanding opportunities for women and girls.

What inspired you to establish Extraordinary Female in 2018, and how has your vision for the organisation evolved over the years?

Extraordinary Female was born out of my desire to create a platform where women could be celebrated, inspired, and reminded of the extraordinary potential they carry within them. I have always believed that every woman deserves an opportunity to grow, be seen, and make a difference.

We started in 2018 with the Gathering of Extraordinary Females. In 2021, the vision evolved into the Face of Extraordinary Female and Extraordinary Female Awards. Today, we also organise the Gathering of Extraordinary Females as a biannual event and run Pad a Girl Child as part of our community impact efforts.

My vision has grown beyond organising events. I want to build a sustainable platform that empowers women, supports girls, and creates opportunities that make a lasting difference in society. Ultimately, I intend to leave the world a better place than I met it.

How does Extraordinary Female ensure that its programmes translate into tangible opportunities for women beyond awards and recognition?

For me, recognition should be a starting point, not the destination. Through our platforms, we create opportunities for women to gain visibility, build confidence, develop leadership skills, and connect with others who can contribute to their growth.

The Face of Extraordinary Female provides a platform for young women to showcase their abilities, while the Extraordinary Female Awards celebrate women making meaningful contributions in their respective fields. Through the Gathering of Extraordinary Females, we also encourage networking, inspiration and the exchange of ideas.

We are continually working towards building stronger partnerships that will translate these opportunities into mentorship, business development, and sustainable growth for women.

What measurable impact has Extraordinary Female made in the lives of women who have participated in its programmes?

Since 2018, Extraordinary Female has grown from a gathering of women into a platform with flagship events, community outreach and an expanding vision for women’s empowerment. Successfully executing the fifth edition of the Face of Extraordinary Female and Extraordinary Female Awards in 2025 was a significant milestone.

Our programmes have created opportunities to celebrate women, showcase emerging talents and encourage confidence and leadership. Through Pad a Girl Child, we have also carried out outreaches in several rural communities, providing support to girls facing menstrual hygiene challenges.

We are committed to strengthening how we document and measure our impact because I want us to demonstrate not just the activities we organise but the difference they make in people’s lives.

What challenges have you faced in sustaining a women-focused advocacy organisation, particularly in securing funding and corporate partnerships?

One of our biggest challenges has been securing consistent funding. People may believe in a vision, but getting the financial and institutional support needed to sustain it is a different challenge. Building Extraordinary Female has taught me to be resourceful, persistent and strategic. I have had to learn how to build relationships, communicate our value, and keep moving forward even when resources are limited.

These experiences have strengthened my desire to work with corporate organisations, foundations, and individuals who understand the importance of investing in women and girls. I believe that with the right partnerships, we can expand our reach and build a more sustainable organisation.

Through Pad a Girl Child, you address menstrual hygiene among underprivileged schoolgirls. What more needs to be done to tackle period poverty and its impact on girls’ education?

I believe we need to raise much more awareness about period poverty and make sanitary pads affordable and accessible to girls from less privileged backgrounds. No girl should have to miss school or feel ashamed because she cannot afford menstrual hygiene products.

Through Pad a Girl Child, we have taken our outreach to several rural communities, but the challenge is much bigger than any single organisation can address alone. Government, schools, businesses, foundations and individuals must work together to provide affordable sanitary products, improve access to proper sanitation facilities and educate communities about menstrual health. We must also address the stigma surrounding menstruation.

For me, this is about dignity, education, and equal opportunity. Every girl deserves the chance to learn and pursue her dreams without her menstrual cycle becoming a barrier.

As the founder of Extraordinary Stitches, how have you navigated the challenges of building a sustainable fashion business in Nigeria?

I started Extraordinary Stitches from home with a manual sewing machine and basic tools. My journey has taught me that you do not need to have everything before you begin. Sometimes, you start with what you have and build along the way.

Like many Nigerian entrepreneurs, I have faced challenges with the cost of materials, access to equipment, funding and the demands of building a sustainable business. These experiences have taught me that talent alone is not enough. You also need business knowledge, discipline, consistency, and the ability to adapt.

My vision for Extraordinary Stitches extends beyond bespoke fashion to include skills development and fashion training. I want to build a brand that expresses creativity while creating opportunities within the fashion industry.

How do you balance your entrepreneurial ventures with your commitment to women’s empowerment and social advocacy?

I see my businesses and advocacy work as different expressions of my desire to create value and opportunities. Extraordinary Female allows me to champion women and girls, while Extraordinary Stitches gives me an avenue to express my creativity and build a business in the fashion industry.

Balancing both can be demanding, but I am learning to prioritise, manage my time, and approach my responsibilities more strategically. I also recognise the importance of building strong teams and systems. I believe a woman can build a business, pursue a purpose, and contribute to society simultaneously. For me, the goal is to grow personally and professionally while creating something meaningful for others.

How has your involvement in international entrepreneurship platforms shaped your approach to business and women’s economic empowerment in Nigeria?

My involvement with Flux Global Entrepreneurship Magazine Ventures (FGGV), where I serve as an ambassador and have held leadership and editorial roles, connected to its Lagos chapter, has broadened my understanding of entrepreneurship, visibility, and strategic relationships. These experiences have reinforced my belief that talent alone is not enough; entrepreneurs also need access to knowledge, networks, funding and markets.

For women in Nigeria, economic empowerment must go beyond encouraging them to start businesses. We must create environments where they can grow sustainable enterprises, access opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to economic development.

I hope to apply the lessons and relationships gained through these engagements to strengthen my businesses and expand the impact of Extraordinary Female.

As you prepare for the sixth edition of the Extraordinary Female Awards, what are your plans for expanding the organisation’s reach and impact across West Africa?

The sixth edition of the Face of Extraordinary Female and Extraordinary Female Awards, scheduled for December 2026, is an opportunity to strengthen the vision we have been building since 2018. Our immediate focus is to deliver an impactful event, build stronger partnerships, and create greater value for our contestants, award recipients, and supporters.

Beyond Nigeria, I envision Extraordinary Female building meaningful collaborations across West Africa, creating opportunities for women to connect, learn, showcase their talents, and access resources that support their growth.

Achieving this requires strategic partnerships, sustainable funding, and programmes that respond to the needs of different communities. My goal is to build an organisation whose impact extends beyond its annual events and continues to empower women and girls for years to come.

Your personal philosophy is, ‘In as much as I am content with what I have, I do not settle for less.’ How has this principle influenced your journey as an entrepreneur and advocate for women?

This philosophy captures how I approach life. I believe in gratitude and appreciating how far I have come. But I also believe that being grateful should never prevent us from pursuing greater possibilities. When I started Extraordinary Female and Extraordinary Stitches, I did not have everything I needed. However, I chose to begin with what I had and continue working towards what I envisioned. There have been challenges, but they have taught me resilience, patience and the importance of continuous growth.

I want women to understand that they can appreciate their present circumstances while still aspiring to more. For me, it is not about comparing myself with others; it is about becoming better, doing more, and making a greater contribution. I am content with what I have because I am grateful, but I do not settle for less because I believe there is always room to grow, create opportunities, and leave the world a better place than I met it.