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UK-Based Women and the Konji Chronicles: Navigating Weather, Loneliness, and Relationships

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UK-Based Women and the Konji Chronicles: Navigating Weather, Loneliness, and Relationships By Osahon George Osayimwen

UK-Based Women and the Konji Chronicles: Navigating Weather, Loneliness, and Relationships
By Osahon George Osayimwen

Living abroad as an immigrant comes with its unique challenges, from cultural adjustments to emotional hurdles. For many UK-based women, the cold weather and lonely lifestyle amplify these challenges, leading to a surge in emotional and physical cravings often dismissed as trivial but rooted in deeper social dynamics.

The “Konji” Effect

Back in Festac Town, Lagos, in 2016, my neighbor’s confession became the talk of our close-knit community. He claimed he “accidentally” had a romantic encounter with a new tenant during the rainy season, a time when the weather, hovering around 22 degrees Celsius, encouraged more than just huddling for warmth. His story wasn’t unique. Nigeria’s rainy season, harmattan, or even lockdown periods often saw relationships, flings, and accidental intimacy blossom in surprising ways.

However, these “accidental” moments pale compared to what women abroad face, especially in the UK, where weather conditions average between 3 and 5 degrees Celsius—cold enough to test anyone’s emotional and physical resilience.

Loneliness and Individualism in the UK

In the UK, the culture of individualism means immigrants often face an isolating reality. People live in silos, overworking and neglecting normal social interactions. Unlike the communal life many are accustomed to back home, strangers are met with suspicion, and socializing often takes place online or within the risky confines of workplace romance.

For many independent and successful women in the UK, this dynamic is compounded by societal expectations. Men, intimidated by their financial independence, often approach them with fleeting intentions. These women, battling loneliness and the chilly weather, may let their guards down, only to find themselves stuck in a vicious cycle of short-lived relationships that rarely culminate in marriage.

The Emotional Toll

The emotional cost of these failed relationships cannot be understated. Frustration and disappointment push some women toward a lifestyle of casual encounters, seeing no harm in their choices as they seek comfort and validation. For others, this emotional toll creates a sense of urgency, making them vulnerable in the dating market.

Single men I spoke to described a dating scene marked by vulnerability and heightened desires. Many women in their 30s, burdened by societal pressure, seem more open to fleeting connections in a bid to find happiness, only to be left grappling with heartbreak.

Turning to the Familiar: Marriages from Back Home

Interestingly, a growing trend sees these women looking back home to Nigeria for marriage prospects. Men they once overlooked during their early days abroad are now seen as saviors offering stability. By presenting these men with the coveted “Japa Ticket”—a chance to escape Nigeria’s harsh economic realities—they strike a mutually beneficial deal.

For many Nigerian men, these proposals are irresistible. They see the opportunity to join their partners abroad as an answered prayer, blinded by the glossy photos of their would-be brides in picturesque locations. Yet, the reality often reveals the struggles and emotional baggage these women carry.

A Business Perspective

From a pragmatic standpoint, these women are simply applying the basic principles of economics: when a product (in this case, themselves) isn’t appreciated locally, export it to a market where it’s scarce. This exportation of romantic partnerships has led to increased success for some, but it also underscores the struggles women face in balancing societal expectations, personal desires, and cultural shifts.

Final Thoughts

The konji issue isn’t just about physical cravings—it reflects deeper challenges tied to isolation, cultural shifts, and the pressure to conform to societal norms. UK-based women, like many immigrants, are navigating uncharted emotional and social territories. Their stories are a poignant reminder of the need for community, connection, and understanding in the ever-changing landscape of life abroad.

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NAWOJ: SEKINAT, CHARITY GETS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE 

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NAWOJ: SEKINAT, CHARITY GETS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE 

 

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists,(NAWOJ), Ogun State Chapter Executives has unanimously passed a vote of confidence on Chairman NAWOJ SEKINAT Salam and the Financial Secretary, Charity James, saying that, their leadership reflect the ideal and objectives of NAWOJ.

 

This was revealed in a communique issued at an Emergency meeting of the Executive held at the NUJ State Council, Iwe-Iroyin in Abeokuta.

 

The vote of confidence on the Leadership of NAWOJ was unanimously signed by all the five executive members that attended the meeting with the vice chairperson taking apology for official engagement outside the state capital.

 

According to the communique ” Consequently, NAWOJ Ogun State Chapter, reaffirms it’s unwavering support and confidence in the Chairperson and the Financial Secretary, Sekinat Salam and Charity James respectively, Urge them to continue in their commitment to purposeful leadership in the best interest of the association and the society at large”.

 

Speaking briefly with Journalists after the emergency Executive meeting, the Chairperson, Nigeria Association of Woman Journalists (NAWOJ), Com. Sekinat Salam, said the meeting was necessary as the news of her suspension was laughable and insulting because it is like a pot calling a kettle black in this case, saying that the Leadership of the State Council, Com. Wale Olanrewaju has no local standing to suspend her or any executive member, even he cannot be a judge in his own case.

 

According to her” The Leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State led by Wale Olanrewaju has always been misusing power without recourse to the constitution of this noble Union, hence has no local standing to suspend me or any executive member “.

 

She said only the Central Working Committee (CWC) has the constitutional rights to sanction or suspend any members found wanting after due process has been followed.

 

While calling on members to stay calm, Com. Sekinat Salam assured members of positive representation of NAWOJ at both the State and National level, adding the success recorded under her administration cannot be overemphasized.

 

She therefore called on the National leadership of NUJ to critically look into the matter, either by setting up independent committee to investigate the issues and resolve the matter as quickly as possible.

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Adron Homes Chairman Congratulates Oyo State on 50 Years of Progress

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Adron Homes Chairman Congratulates Oyo State on 50 Years of Progress

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Adron Homes and Properties Limited, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, has congratulated the Government and people of Oyo State as the state marks its 50th anniversary, describing the occasion as a celebration of resilience, cultural pride, and sustained progress.

He noted that since its creation, Oyo State has remained a strong contributor to Nigeria’s socio-economic and cultural development, emerging as a hub of commerce, education, and innovation.

According to him, the Golden Jubilee offers a moment for reflection and renewed commitment by government, private sector players, traditional institutions, and citizens toward building a more inclusive and prosperous state.

Aare Emmanuelking commended the state’s ongoing transformation through investments in infrastructure, economic expansion, and human capital development, adding that sustainable growth is deliberate and must remain purpose-driven.

He also praised the leadership of the current administration while acknowledging the contributions of past leaders whose efforts laid the foundation for today’s Oyo State.

Reaffirming Adron Homes’ commitment to national development, he described Oyo State as a land of opportunity. He wished the state continued peace and prosperity, expressing confidence that the next fifty years will bring even greater achievements for the Pace Setter State and its people.

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TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CONDOLES WITH BIU EMIRATE OVER TRAGIC ATTACK

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TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CONDOLES WITH BIU EMIRATE OVER TRAGIC ATTACK

TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CONDOLES WITH BIU EMIRATE OVER TRAGIC ATTACK

 

In a profound expression of sorrow, the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation has extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the entire people of Biu Emirate, Borno State, following the recent tragic attack attributed to Boko Haram. This devastating assault, which occurred at a work site in northeastern Nigeria, claimed the lives of dozens, including brave soldiers committed to protecting the nation.

In a statement released to the press and signed by the Chairman of the foundation, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, the Grand Patron of the Foundation, His Excellency Amb. Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai CFR (Rtd), former Chief of Army Staff, described the incident as “one too many senseless, barbaric, and ruthless displays of inhumanity.” His Excellency emphasized the heartbreaking impact of such attacks on innocent, hardworking citizens striving to make a positive difference in their communities.

The Grand Patron praised the swift and decisive response of military personnel during this critical time, underscoring their brave commitment to safeguarding the nation. He called upon them to maintain this momentum, commending their courage and sacrifice in the face of adversity. “May Almighty Allah forgive their souls and grant them Aljannah Firdouse,” he remarked, encouraging the nation to honor their spirit of sacrifice as they rally together to rebuild and restore hope across the region.

In his statement, Gen. Buratai highlighted the importance of collective action in overcoming the challenges posed by insecurity, urging concerned citizens to increase their efforts in fostering a virile community that future generations can cherish. “Together, we can surmount these troubles,” he asserted, calling on all patriotic leaders and citizens to unite in the fight against violence and insecurity.

TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CONDOLES WITH BIU EMIRATE OVER TRAGIC ATTACK

The TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote peace, security, unity, and prosperity. As the foundation extends its condolences to the bereaved, it also calls upon all segments of society to collaborate in creating a better and safer future. May Allah guide and protect the nation and lead it toward enduring peace. Amen.

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