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GAFF 2023 Convener Highlights Role of Fashion as Catalyst for Development

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GAFF 2023 Convener Highlights Role of Fashion as Catalyst for Development

 

 

 

Convener of the Glam African Fashion Festival (GAFF), Naomi Olapeju Sigismund, has emphasised the pivotal role of fashion as a catalyst for change and development in the society through creation of opportunities, empowerment and fostering entrepreneurship.

 

 

GAFF 2023 Convener Highlights Role of Fashion as Catalyst for Development

 

 

She added that it also aids as a vital enabler of identity, culture, and art.

The fashion promoter fondly called Olori Peju, who doubles as convener for Hope For sure Foundation and the Project Director of African Canada Investment, made the statement while speaking at the 2023 edition of the GAFF Fashion Festival Nigeria which held in Lagos at the weekend ahead of the grand finale in Canada.

 

 

 

She stated: “The GAFF festival is more than just fashion. It is about empowerment. It is about celebrating the untapped potential within our communities and providing a platform for emerging designers to shine. It is about creating opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship, and transforming lives. Through fashion, we can uplift and inspire, promoting economic growth, cultural exchange and development.”

“Fashion has always been a powerful expression of identity, culture, and art. It transcends boundaries, connects people, and tells stories that are deeply rooted in our heritage.

“The Glam African Fashion Festival is a testament to the richness and diversity of African fashion, showcasing the incredible talents and creativity of designers from across the continent,” Sigismund noted.

During the event which had many colourful African fashion designs and talents on display, popular fashion icons and designers including Modela Couture, Mankatah-di-nane, Kudos Clothing, Prince Kevin and Tinuade Fayomade promoted their talents and latest designs to the world.

It also featured dazzling displays of craftsmanship, innovation, and passion, ranging from breathtaking traditional ensembles to cutting-edge contemporary designs, with the runway coming alive with a kaleidoscope of colours, textures, and patterns that encapsulated the essence of Africa.

Speaking further, the Convener explained that the event was designed to showcase creativity, diversity and richness of African fashion and also helps designers to exhibit their work through collaboration with international fashion brands.

She said the event seeks to celebrate the vibrant spirit, ingenuity, and beauty of African fashion, urging Nigerians to appreciate the models to enable Nigeria take world stage.

Sigismund said: “Tonight, as the models grace the runway, let us applaud their artistry and embrace the vision of a future where African fashion takes its rightful place on the world stage. Let us be inspired, captivated, and moved by the talent that lies within our borders.”

The Convener also reassured of her commitments to promoting the continent for significant changes through fashion and lifestyle.

She stated: “I stand here today as a proud African woman, deeply committed to promoting the beauty and creativity of our continent. Together, we can break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and redefine the global fashion landscape.”

The glamorous event was also graced by dignitaries including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, represented by Otunba Moses Olafare; movie star Mercy Aigbe and husband, Adekaz; Chief Obani Oluwabiyi, Anthony Boyede Greenlyte, Adjua fadojutimi, Lolami Agbalajobi, Jumia murmurni, and Hon Ola Kukoyi.

Meanwhile, a female physically challenged online content creator and artist, Abosede Okeowo was empowered with an award for her sketching talents while some others were given merit awards.

Outstanding designers from the event will participate in the GAFF event in Ontario, Canada, which will hold from November 7th to 12th in conjunction with the African Canada Investment Expo & Summit.”

“The African Canada Investment Expo & Summit is a prestigious business gathering, bridging the gap between African businesses and Canadian investors. This premier event creates conducive platform for networking, business growth and investment prospects between African and Canadian enterprises.

Other designers at the event include Afolabi Adesanya Temitope, Qudus Olamilekan Jamiu, David Patience Oke,
Akindele Toyin Felicia, Bisola Adesola, Seyi Lawal, Atanda Olaoluwa Emmanuel, Austin Nortey, Gideon Jwine Wulu, Mankatah Di Naire, Abigail Kyere,
Lydia Adiku, Kwasi Aidoo Whyte, Joseph Agbo, Omolara Odoh,Theatre Centrik led by Olayinka Esther Boyede and Bold ideas

Other dignitaries include Senator Lekan Mustapha, Prince Adesegun Oniru, Alhaji Aminu Olatunji Afeez, Ms Mocha Brown, Mr oluwaseye Kehinde, Mr Abdul Abiola, Prince Festus Olorunfemi, Princess Folashade Ogunwusi Fadairo, Apostle Abosede Oshinowo, Dr Akin Faminu, Fatima ishiaku and others.

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CRG: Politicians Must Stop Witch-Hunting, Focus on Nation Building — Says NYSC Cleared Deputy Speaker Since 2023 

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CRG: Politicians Must Stop Witch-Hunting, Focus on Nation Building — Says NYSC Cleared Deputy Speaker Since 2023

By: Boye Ola 

 

The Centre for Responsible Governance (CRG) has called on political actors and interest groups to desist from what it described as needless witch-hunting of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, following renewed controversies surrounding his National Youth Service Corps records.

 

The organisation noted that the clarification by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) regarding the matter is not a recent development, as a formal verification letter had already been issued as far back as May 23, 2023.

 

 

The letter, referenced NYSC/CCD/VER/10/5.1/VOL1/02, had already addressed and cleared the questions surrounding the Deputy Speaker’s NYSC records.

Reacting to the renewed debate, the spokesman of the Centre,

 

Obande George, said it was troubling that issues which had already been clarified by a competent national institution were being resurrected for political purposes.

According to him, the time has come for political actors to move away from destructive engagements and concentrate on building the nation.

 

“It is important to note that the NYSC had already issued a verification letter dated May 23, 2023 addressing the matter.

Reopening issues that have already been clarified by a competent authority suggests that some individuals are more interested in political witch-hunting than in national progress,” George said.

 

The CRG stressed that democracy thrives when institutions are respected and their determinations are accepted in good faith rather than constantly questioned for political advantage.

George also commended the Deputy Speaker for demonstrating maturity and composure throughout the controversy, despite what he described as sustained provocations.

 

“Honourable Benjamin Kalu has shown remarkable calm and maturity in the face of intense public scrutiny and political provocation.

 

Instead of engaging in unnecessary public confrontation, he allowed institutions to speak through their records.”

 

The Centre warned that Nigeria’s political culture must evolve beyond constant character attacks and sensational allegations, which often distract public officials from their responsibilities.

 

According to the organisation, the country’s development requires constructive engagement among political actors rather than continuous attempts to discredit opponents.

 

“Nigeria cannot move forward if political energy is constantly spent on digging up allegations and amplifying rumours. Our leaders and political actors must redirect their focus to governance, policy and nation building.”

 

CRG therefore urged Nigerians to rely on verified information from credible institutions and avoid spreading speculative claims that could damage reputations or destabilise public discourse.

 

The organisation reiterated that respect for due process and institutional integrity remains essential for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

 

@The Centre for Responsible Governance, Email: [email protected], Instagram: crgngo6, Twitter: crgng06, Threads: crgngo6

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IWD 2026: Ajadi Celebrates Women, Urges Them To Seek More Elective Positions In Future Elections

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IWD 2026: Ajadi Celebrates Women, Urges Them To Seek More Elective Positions In Future Elections

 

A Leading People’s Democratic Party, (PDP) Governorship Aspirant in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has felicitates with women in the country on the occasion of this year’s International Women’s Day.

 

The international Women’s Day is celebrated on 8 March, commemorating women’s fight for equality and liberation along with the women right’s movement. It gives focus to issues such as gender equality and reproductive rights. International Women’s Day originated from labour movements in Europe and North America during the early 20th century.

 

In a statement issued on Sunday to commemorate this year’s edition of the International Women’s Day, Ajadi said the role of the women in nation building cannot be over emphasised.

 

He recalled the role played by prominent Nigerian women like Mrs Funmilayo Ransome- Kuti, Margaret Ekpo and Wuraola Esan towards the liberalization and the growth of the country and urges women to follow their footsteps by not only participate in the political process but seek more elective positions.

 

He urges the political leaders to encourage and give more chances to women for them to contest and occupy elective positions in the country.

 

Ajadi also called for more respect for women, saying they are definitely behind whatever success recorded by the menfolk.

 

He said domestic violence against women should be stopped, saying they deserves respect for their role in moulding the future leaders.

 

According to the statement, “I celebrate and congratulate our women on this year’s occasion of International Women’s Day. We cannot underestimate the role played by our women both at home, in the social circle and in politics. They deserve more respect.

 

“I equally called on them not only to be a passive participants in politics but to determine to seek more elected positions in future elections. They should aspire more from the position of dancing and singing at campaigns to seek more elective positions. The ratio of men to women in elective positions in the country is embarrassing. Women should stand up and fight for more elective positions.

 

“I also use the occasion of this year’s Women’s Day to appeal to Nigerians to stop domestic violence against the women. If we treat our women well, our country will witness unprecedented developments”.

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International Women’s Day 2026: Adron Homes Champions Women’s Leadership and Inclusive Growth

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International Women’s Day 2026: Adron Homes Champions Women’s Leadership and Inclusive Growth

 

As the world marks International Women’s Day 2026, Adron Homes and Properties has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women with meaningful opportunities to serve, lead, and shape the future of Nigeria’s real estate landscape.

 

Observed globally on March 8, this year’s theme, “Give To Gain,” calls for intentional investment in women through access to resources, education, mentorship, and leadership platforms. The message is clear: when women are empowered, organizations prosper, communities flourish, and nations grow stronger.

 

In line with this vision, Adron Homes highlighted its people-first culture, which promotes gender inclusion at all operational levels. From executive management and regional administration to marketing leadership, client experience, and field operations, women continue to play strategic roles in driving the company’s growth and service excellence.

 

According to the company, creating pathways for women to lead is not just a policy direction but a proven strategy that fuels innovation, strengthens decision-making, and deepens stakeholder trust.

 

Adron Homes also highlighted its internal capacity-building initiatives designed to equip female professionals with the skills and confidence needed for greater responsibility. Through structured mentorship, leadership exposure, and performance-based advancement systems, the organization continues to raise a new generation of women leaders within the property sector.

 

Delivering a message to commemorate the day, the Executive Vice Chairman, Olori Aderonke Emmanuelking, emphasized the company’s enduring commitment to inclusive progress:

 

“The theme ‘Give To Gain’ speaks to a principle we strongly believe in at Adron Homes, empowering women is an investment with lasting returns. When women are supported to lead and succeed, the impact goes beyond the workplace; it transforms families, industries, and society at large. We remain committed to building systems that help women rise and thrive.”

 

The company noted that its celebration of International Women’s Day reflects a broader mission, developing not only thriving residential communities but also a workplace culture where talent is recognized without bias and leadership opportunities are accessible to all.

 

As Adron Homes continues its expansion drive, it remains steadfast in fostering an environment where women are encouraged to contribute meaningfully, lead confidently, and grow sustainably.

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