Allure 13102019

October 13, 2019
NELLY
AGBOGU
IFEOMA
OKOYE
Olubunmi
Aboderin-Talabi
Bolaji
Ayinde-sekoni
BELLA
ROSE OKOJIE
Empowering
Women Through Fashion
The Collection Launches at Lagos Fashion Week 2019

7
11
6
14
IN THIS ISSUE
email: allurefortheworld@vanguardngr.com
HAPPINESS
7 Cover: Sunlight; Empowering
Women Through Fashion
14 Sexmatics: Perks Of Cold
Bath
16 Instagram Moments
CELEBRATION
3 Fashion : 5 Ways To Rock Sweetly In
Pink
4 Fashion : Paris Stands Still For AFR
2019
6 Fashion : How To Care For Your Bras
13 OCTOBER 2019
WELLBEING
15 My Lagos Adventure
WELCOME...
The anniversary of the International
Day of the Girl Child last Friday, once
again, brought to the fore, the plight of the
girl child. From birth to death, it seems its
from one travail to the other. The recent
sex for grade video by BBC Africa Eye that
went viral, reveals one of the many travails
the girl child goes through. Many girls
have been forced to drop out of school
when they can no longer take the heat
from the “cold rooms” scattered all over
the nooks and crannies of Nigeria
universities.
This month, the World marks Breasts
Cancer awareness month, making the world zoom in on the state of
health of the female mammary gland. With Nigeria yet to have a
comprehensive cancer screening and treatment center, it only makes
statistics churned out by world health bodies like WHO even more
frightening.
International Agency for Research on Cancer, reports that over 18
million people develop cancer yearly, with 9.6 million deaths from cancer
every year. Unfortunately, 70% of cancer deaths occur in developing
countries like Nigeria due to late detection.
A recent WHO data, shows that every day in Nigeria, 32 women die
of breast cancer. Unfortunately, with no comprehensive screening
center, poorly equipped treatment centers in hospitals, and many
patients presenting late, the chances of beating this deadly disease
become very slim. More needs to be done and quickly too, if more
patients must live.
To those who have survived, its nothing short of a miracle.
Organizations like C.O.P.E (Care Organization and Public
Enlightenment), have been wonderful in this regard, supporting women
with breast cancer through treatment and waiting on the other end of
the bridge to celebrate survival.
This is what true empowerment is when women support other
women, to move up in life; like, Sunlight is doing with five women who
are empowering other members of their
gender.
As we mark the pink month, remember,
self breast examination is key. To all survivors,
we raise our glass as we toast to life and to
healthy boobs!
Have a great week.
J . E
Jemi Ekunkunbor
Acting Editor
08052201126
Quotes
“Judge a man by his
questions rather than by
his answers”.
“No object is so
beautiful that, under
certain conditions, it will
not look ugly”.
- Oscar Wilde
Complaining is dangerous
business. It can damage
or even destroy your
relationship with God,
your relationships with
other people, and even
with your relationship
with yourself”.
- Joyce Meyer
EDITOR
REMMY IFUEKO DIAGBARE
DEPUTY EDITOR
JEMI EKUNKUNBOR
ASST. EDITOR
YEMISI SULEIMAN
CONTRIBUTORS
TERESA ALIGBE
LINDA ORAJEKWE
ADESUWA EWOIGBOKHAN
BAMIYO ISELEMA EMINA
CONT. EDITOR
LATASHA NGWUBE
TEAM
4
COPY EDITOR
DODOIYI WILLIAM-WEST
LAYOUT / DESIGN
OLAYIWOLA AJAGBE
PHOTO
OSCAR OCHIOGU
(08034746487)
HEAD MARKETING
JANET NAJOMOH
(08037156911)
HEAD OF PRODUCTION
CHARLES KAMMA
Printed and published by Vanguard Media Ltd
Vanguard Avenue Kirikiri Canal; P.M.B 1007 Apapa, Lagos.

5 Ways To Rock
Sweetly In
FASHION
Pink
October is National Breast Cancer
Awareness month and you can show
your support by wearing pink to create
awareness as well as celebrate with the
survivors.
Here are some pink outfit inspirations
that will help express your care for this
great cause.
By - Rita Chioma
This sleeveless
maxi dress in hot
pink is elegant
enough for that
evening occasion.
The crystal
embellished clutch,
pump shoes and
gorgeous earnings
did justice to the
entire look. You
should give it a
shot!
Stay pretty in
this pink, sassy
double-breasted
blazer and full
length pant suit.
Jackie Appiah
added a touch
of blue for her
accessories. You
could do same or
go for black bag
and accessories
to complement
the outfit.
This light pink, Maxi
gown with silver
accessories is a perfect
choice for any red carpet
event. Take your style to
the next level;
sika osie
step out in
a classy Pointed Stiletto.
Baby pink is
always cool and
attractive. And this
two-piece blazer
and pants is not an
exception. Silver
accessories and
subtle makeup
would light up this
elegant look.
This Shaffy
Bello’s Fushia
pink jumpsuit with
petal- embellished
sleeves is quite
appropriate for
any occasion.
The Nollywood
queen, opted
for a monotone
look with her hair
and choice of
accessories.
October 13, 2019 / 3

FASHION
Lammari
collection
Lammari
collection
Cocomod
PARIS STANDS STILL
For
AFR 2019
By - Jemi Ekunkunbor
The United Nations Educational,
Scientific & Cultural Organization
(UNESCO), last weekend, played
host to the global edition of the Africa
Fashion Reception at its headquarters in Paris.
The annual event organized by Nigeria’s
Legendary Gold Limited in partnership with
UNESCO and the African Union, attracted
diplomats, captains of industries, celebrities,
the media, investors and buyers for an evening
of high fashion and glamour.
The 6th edition themed, “Africa is the new
inspiration for global fashion”, saw 12 designers
from 12 African countries participating at the
show. Angola’s designer, We Rock opened
the show that saw models strutting the runway
in Africa inspired pieces crafted from prints and
other western fabrics. Nigeria was represented
by Neopele. Other designers who took part
in the show include; Lov’It – Cameroon,
Sebeatu - Ethiopia, Cocomod – Rwanda,
EryMerra – Togo, Lindsay Apparel Palace
– Eswatini (Swaziland), Second Life
Upcircled Garments-- Uganda, Lammari
collection – Algeria, RegardeMoi
Couture - Angola and Maxotablond -
Cameroon.
The event was spiced with
musical performances by
London-based Nigerian
saxophonist, Ben Saxy who
welcomed guests with music
4
/ October 13, 2019

FASHION
lexy mojo-eyes
Firmin Matoko, Audrey Azoulay
cross section of
dignitaries at the event
from around the African continent. Also,
Congolese Diva, Shana Malonga took the
stage at some point. The evening got to
the peak when Nigerian delectable singer,
Muma G took to the stage. She was accorded
a standing ovation by the very appreciative
audience. Africa was felt at some point, when
BDC Ballet de la diaspora Camerounaise,
performed drumming and dancing.
The show was watched by The Director General
of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, Assistant Director
General for Africa, UNESCO, Firmin Edouard
Matoko and other important dignitaries.
Lexy Mojo Eyes, CEO of Legendary Gold
Limited, says, the event was not only to
build bridges by creating free trade and
partnerships among fashion practitioners
throughout the African continent, it was
also to attract global attention to Africa’s
very rich and diversified dress culture,
which can be explored as a catalyst
for the social economic growth of the
continent’s garment/textile industry.
Ivory Coast’s designer Zeady,
closed the show with his amazing
collection while a satisfied
audience cheered.
Firmin
Matoko
Audrey
Azoulay
Ben Sax
Muma G
Lindsay Apparel
Regarde Moi
couture
we rock
Maxotablond
October 13, 2019 /
5

FASHION
How To
Care For
Your Bras
By - Linda Orajekwe
For an item so delicate as our bras, it is amazing
how a lot of people pay little attention to it. Many a
time, we just wear and dump in our closet to wear
again, without air drying or washing after so many
wears. A lot of you are reading this and feeling attacked,
well, that’s a good thing. It means you will
adhere to the practical care tips we have for you, to
ensure your bra is properly taken care of.
Don’t Squeeze:
While washing, never twist or squeeze
your bra. If you do, it’ll misshape the
underwire and distort the shape of the
cups.
Regular Wash:
Your bra is not “buy and wear forever till the iron break or
straps let loose”. There should be so many wash time in
between when you bought it and three years later when it has
to go. That said, your bra should be washed after every three
wears. Don’t wait till it starts oozing a smell you can’t stand.
Three Years Life Span:
Have you ever read the inscription on
the label of the bra you bought? We
thought as much. If you’ve ever, you’ll
know that the average lifespan of your
bra, despite the texture and underwire
used to make it, is three years. We
understand you are in a committed
relationship with some of your bras,
and you’ve made a vow to never to
let them go because of how they hold
your girls right, but girl, now is the time
to let go and give your girls new shield.
Hand Wash:
Hand Wash your bra whenever possible, or use
the ‘delicate’ part of the washing machine. This
will help keep your bra for as long as it should
possibly last-three years.
Detergent:
Use detergent meant for delicate clothing. Do not
use harsh substances like bleach as it will damage
the fabric and the underwire of your bra.
No Hot Water:
Many times, because we have worn our
bras more than we are meant to, we now
make sure we cook it with very hot water
to kill the germs. That’s wrong. Doing that
will only kill your bra the more as the heat
will break down the elastic , and shorten
the lifespan of the bra. Wash your bra with
cold or lukewarm water.
6
/ October 13, 2019

INTERVIEW
W
MEN
Sunlight:
Empowering Women Through Fashion
Words By - Linda Orajekwe
Since its inception in the 1800’s, Sunlight’s purpose has
been to improve the lives and wellbeing of people, with
a focus on women. Sunlight’s mission is to act as a
bridge between women and their opportunities, to
empower and encourage women to be the best they can be at
every stage of their life’s. Sunlight is a leading brand in the
Unilever Shakti program that provides products for women in
rural areas, which they resell to households and in their
communities, thereby making a profit and generating an
income stream for themselves. This initiative to date has
reached 3000 women. Sunlight has also created Sunlight
Water Centers, an initiative started to improve the poor water
situations in communities within Nigeria, by increasing access
to water and improving the economic power of women. This
initiative is run by female entrepreneurs from the community
with the profits going back to these women. Now, Sunlight is
connecting with women through the stories of five Nigerian
women who have made it their mission to empower other
women, and Vanguard Allure is happy to showcase this
amazing partnership.
These women are Bella Rose Okojie, Olubunmi Aboderin-
Talabi, Bolaji Chizoba Ayinde-Sekoni, Nelly Agbogu, and Ify
Okoye. They will be wearing the Sunlight collection created by
Morenikeji Akinsola of VATHISWA and Chibuzor Emordi of
Zurizola; a collection that will be available for sale at the Lagos
Fashion Week 2019 from the 23rd October 2019 - 26th
October, 2019 with the proceeds going back to the designers.
October 13, 2019 / 7

INTERVIEW
Ify Okoye:
Inspired To Lift Other
Women
Ify Okoye is an ex-beauty queen whose love
for beauty, motivated the launch of her
business, The Painted Nail Ng. The Painted
Nail provides affordable and accessible
products that allow women to express their
personality, style, and even their mood. She
believes that colour truly has the power to
change not just one’s look, but also, one’s
outlook on life. Ify plans to educate and teach
women proper nail care skills, which in turn,
helps them grow sustainable businesses for
themselves and their families.
W
MAN
What inspired you?
When I had my first daughter, I found it difficult to leave
my house for the salon. I was trying to look pretty but
realised I couldn’t buy quality products locally, so I ordered
a few abroad. That sparked something in me and that’s
how it started; because, I’m passionate about grooming,
looking and feeling my best (Laughs).
If you had the power to take off one of the challenges
faced by women, What would that be?
My biggest challenge is multi-tasking as a mum while
focusing on other things. I would love the ability to
multitask successfully.
How is the Sunlight Project in line with what you do?
Shaped By Strong Women
8
Nelly Agbogu:
Nelly Agbogu is the founder of NaijaBrandChick,
Nellies Nigeria, a healthy food company and an
online social media platform. She’s also the
convener of the NBC trade fair. Nelly is a mum and a
business guru that helps women generally, by sharing
healthy meal alternatives and also, helps women grow
their businesses on social media.
What are the struggles you face handling Naija brand Chick as a
woman?
Men thinking I shouldn’t be the one in charge, especially those older
than me. They prefer talking to my husband in my stead, even after
knowing that I’m the sole owner of the brand.
What inspired the initiative of Naija Brand Chick?
I learnt how to bake from Youtube. When I started Nellies, I was able
to push sales on social media for the Nellies brand, and people asked
/ October 13, 2019
how I made these sales through social media. I would say Naija Brand Chick
became an information-sharing platform where I could share my knowledge,
and details on how to replicate what I was doing which in turn, helped other
brands and businesses.
How similar is the Sunlight campaign to your brand?
The Sunlight initiative is empowering women, helping them aspire for more.
This is similar to my brand which is focused on building and lifting up women.
That is why I’m very excited to be a part of this project.
If you had the opportunity to talk to your younger self what would you
say?
I will say keep pushing, you were a mess, but, look at you right now (smiles)!
You have been authentically you; so don’t change anything about yourself.
Growing up, how did you perceive women and how has time changed
that perception for you?
I grew up around powerful women. The irony of it is that, my family treasure
women even more than men. I grew up seeing my female cousins in politics,
doing amazing things.
For people who don’t have an enabling environment which allows them to
thrive, if the family doesn’t groom or support you - look for a place of succour to
help you grow.
Who is that one woman that inspired you as a child?
My mum! At a time, my dad lost his job, it took a toll on my mum, but she
was able to go the extra mile to fend for us. She is instrumental in moulding me
to who I have become today.

INTERVIEW
We’re both trying to empower and uplift women in
whatever possible way we can. I do it through a
beauty brand, while Sunlight goes way farther than I
do. I am grateful to be a part of an initiative that does
that for my gender. Not every woman has the
opportunity to have a dream and see it come to pass.
In most cases, the major problem is financial
constraints. Giving women the foundation to start up
their businesses is really commendable because,
being a woman is not easy. So, well done Sunlight!
How did you perceive women as a young girl,
and what’s your current perception of Women?
As a young girl, I felt women were subjected to
running the home and were always blamed for any
mishap that happens in the house. Right now, I feel
women are more in control and are running their
business with so much finesse. In some cases, men
are no longer dictators, it is more of a team effort.
Women are strong go-getters. I am inspired by so
many women.
As a young girl who is that one Woman that
inspired you?
My Mum! She made it so easy, she took care of
things so well that we were unaware of how bad
things were. She made sure we stayed grounded
with the value she instilled in us.
W
MAN
Bella Rose Okojie:
Eager To Help Women
Bella Rose Okojie is the morning show host on City FM, who
helps young, aspiring broadcasters by involving them in her
projects, teach and share resource materials. As the cofounder
of www.techcity.com, women empowerment remains at the
heart of everything she does.
W
MAN
If you had the power to take off one of the challenges faced by women, What would that be?
I think it is the notion that women can only do some things. There is a very weird embargo, if I
may say, that’s placed on the girl-child where people say, “you know there are some things you just
can’t do”. I want to have the power to change that thought, and let women see they can do just about
anything.
How does it feel working with Sunlight on this campaign?
It’s fulfilling! I want women to be a lot more confident and when you look at what Sunlight is doing;
empowering women with start-up capital support for their businesses, they’re helping women level
up. The encouragement we need as women is what Sunlight is providing. I’m hoping that this will
also have a beautiful ripple effect so that other women can see what Sunlight has done for women,
and just tap from that strength, and go ahead and do the same.
How did you see women growing up and how has time changed that perception?
My first exposure to a woman is my mother and cliche as it might sound, she’s the strongest
woman I know and to a large extent, helped me to see that I can do just about anything I want to do.
That’s why I also have an idea about women being amazing people because, my mom is that
woman that made me see my strengths, and also showed my sister her strengths. She made me
see women as supporters and backbones.
If you have the opportunity to talk to your younger self, what would you tell her?
Hmmm… I’ll say “make more female friends” because growing up, I was sort of a tomboy. I have
a few female friends now but I think if I made more female friends when I was much younger, there
would be a lot more women around me. That is why I’m usually excited, and ready to help any young
woman that comes to me for help concerning her life and career.
October 13, 2019 / 9

INTERVIEW
Bolaji Chizoba
Ayinde-Sekoni
Empowering Women Financially
She is the creative director of Nouva Couture. As a new mum, wife, and fashion
entrepreneur, her day is engulfed with multitasking. At Nouva Couture, 60% of her
staff are women. She provides them with a setting that allows them to grow into
confident, empowered professionals. She does this because she believes that female
empowerment must be centred around financial independence.
W
MAN
How do you handle the challenges of being an Entrepreneur?
It’s been pretty difficult and challenging being a female entrepreneur, a mother, a wife; especially,
since I gave birth. I have not physically been to work in four months, and I still ensure that work is being
done properly. I don’t have much sleep, but I am built for that.
If you have a superpower which of the issues facing women will you want to take off?
In terms of issues relating to women, I’ll say child marriage, no child should have to go through that.
What do you think about being a part of the Sunlight campaign?
I’m happy Sunlight has given me the platform, to show other women that they can do just about
anything, if they put their heart to it. Personally, I have made it a point of duty to support one woman
every year, with a token to help grow their business.
I started my business with just N30,000 and was able to scale. I feel any amount of money can be
turned to millions if it is used wisely. Start small, see where you make mistakes, learn and forge forward.
I wish I knew to be more independent much earlier, because growing up, fathers were seen as the
head of the home, but many women take up more responsibility in the home too. Now that I know
better, and I have a daughter, I will teach her better.
How did you perceive women growing up?
I saw women as the individual behind the man. I never saw women side by side or even in front;
but the truth is, women are doing much more. Times have changed, and the way we live is evolving
and women are taking bold steps to be more vocal about the things they do.
Who is that one woman that inspired you growing up?
My Mother! She had over 80 shops in Alaba International Market, Alabarago. She had a furniture
business, she was a woman like three men. She was that Iroko tree that I never thought could fall. She
empowered herself and other people.
Olubunmi Aboderin-Talabi
Empowering Women Through Education
Olubunmi Aboderin-Talabi is a publisher (a founding member of Clever clogs
book), an author, and the chairperson of Women in Management, Business and
Public Service (WIMBIZ). She is passionate about increasing the literacy rate in
Nigeria. Aboderin-Talabi gives authors, especially women, the chance to showcase
their books and share their craft at the Akada Children Book Festival - a fun festival in
partnership with the British Council, to showcase children’s books written by African
authors.
What are the challenges you face as an author?
Well, I think it’s the same challenges people who run business face in Nigeria, all we can do is take
one step at a time. The high cost of production, getting the right printers who can get colour separation
done right, also finding the right illustrators, because dealing with children’s books, you have to
understand what you’re trying to say and interpret with pictures.
What do you think about what Sunlight is doing for women?
Anything that shed light on what women do, no matter how small, is a good thing. I think people feel
women are given too much attention, but I don’t agree with that point of view.
Growing up as a young girl, how did you see yourself and how has that thought evolved?
I had no reason to think I wouldn’t be successful. In my family, education is highly-priced and I was
very confident I could do anything I wanted to do. I’ll say we should nurture each child, and give each
child the opportunity to learn, to teach the child how to think, so in future, the child can be in a position to
turn things around.
I
f you had a superpower to eliminate one issue out of many issues faced by women, what would it
be?
Bias! I would remove bias, both conscious and unconscious from the society. I will make people
conscious they have the bias, and give women a fair chance to do whatever they want.
Who is that one woman that inspires you?
There are so many, but first my mother. She is the toughest, most resilient, most hardworking,
focused woman that I know and that’s where I draw my strength from. She is not afraid and because of
that, her work has been rewarded with success.
W
MAN
10 / October 13, 2019

C.O.P.E Pampers
Cancer Survivors
With Spa Treat
By - Linda Orajekwe
There is an unreasonable rise of Breast
cancer in Nigeria, that every day should be
a day to raise awareness to save another
woman from the harsh disease.
Care Organization Public Enlightenment
(C.O.P.E), knows this well and has spent years since it
was founded in 1995, in creating awareness about
breast cancer, and raising a happy and enabling
community for survivors.
This year, in celebration of the breast cancer
awareness month, members of C.O.P.E took to the
streets of Victoria Island, Lagos, to walk in their pink
shirts, enlightening people about cancer and how
deadly the disease is. After walking for almost an hour,
over 30 survivors of breast cancer were treated to a
spa experience at B Natural spa also in Victoria Island,
a spa that has consistently supported and
collaboration with C.O.P.E to ensure that these
warriors enjoy their second chance at life. The spa
experience includes a full-on Spa treatment of
steaming, body massage, pedicure and manicure
which according to the founder of C.O.P.E, Mrs
Ebunola Anozie, is a necessary experience for every
cancer survivor, to help their body work perfectly after
the treatment it has been through.
According to her, “Pleasurable treats like this for the
body is the complementary therapy every cancer
survivor should indulge in. It’s International breast
cancer awareness month and we’re using this day to
treat ourselves, have a steamed bath, massage,
pedicure and manicure.
It is a way of spoiling ourselves; but also, called
complementary therapy. Once you go through
treatment; surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, it’s
very important that when you’re healed, that you have
these kinds of therapy to ease all the joints, and make
sure that your body is fit”.
She spoke further on the need to improve our health
system in Nigeria for cancer patients “Our healthcare
system is in shambles, and we need to improve on it.
When we talk of a comprehensive cancer centre, we
don’t have it and most of us travel outside the country
and see what a comprehensive cancer centre looks
like. We probably just have a system where we’re
alleviating quite a lot of people who have cancer but,
we need a standard one in all the six geo-political
zones. And it’s achievable, because Nigeria is blessed
and we just have to use it wisely.”
Mrs Kehinde Agbilete, Vice President of C.O.P.E
who has been a breast cancer survivor for over 20
years, stressed on the importance of early detection.
“It is a proven fact that if you catch your breast cancer
on time, the chances of survival is way much better.
So we are encouraging preventive as against curative
method. This is important this month as October is
Breast cancer awareness month.”
On how far Nigeria has gone in tge treatment of
cancer, Mrs Kehinde says: “I will say we have
significantly improved. Being a breast cancer survivor
of over 20 years, I’ve seen the country change. There
are quite a number of good specialist centres, but a lot
still has to be done; making sure the equipment is
working perfectly for the radiotherapy at the hospitals.
I’d like to see something like a private-government
partnership, where women can access treatment on
time. As we speak, the length of time we access
treatment is still very low, and this can be solved by
public enlightenment, which is what C.O.P.E is doing
because people who don’t know cancer cannot detect
it. The beauty of having a community that understands
one cannot be overemphasized. C.O.P.E provides that
for these survivors, coupled with a day like this to
pamper themselves, and feel just like they always
should, alive! That community of survivors live every
day knowing and understanding the warrior that they
are, coming together on a day like this, to let go and
be free, knowing that the other person is just like them.
Sharing her spa experience, Philamonia Anumudu, a
breast cancer survivor says: “when we were in the
steam room, we were four, it was an opportunity to
encourage one another again, and to pray and
reaffirm the word of God over our lives. Seeing us
sitting down and talking, I just felt, this is somebody
that understands what you’ve gone through, what
you’re going through and where you are, and that
calmed me and made me hopeful. One funny thing is
that when we talked, we all have different stories but if
you listen properly, they’re all interconnected.”
To Adebukolami Adewale who is another survivor
“This is just an opportunity to be with my “sis” which is
what we call ourselves. It’s an opportunity to make
ourselves happy and feel relaxed. It is a great
opportunity that makes me feel hopeful to be alive”.
The importance of a community such as that provided
by C.O.P.E. was further emphasized by Londonbased
Nigerian Cancer survivor and activist, Dolapo
Ogunleye who revealed her need to talk to someone
like her, made her open up when she was diagnosed
with cancer. “It’s good to support each other. It’s not
good to be on your own while going through cancer
because I was own my own going through cancer. It’s
good for us to come out and share our loneliness,
worries, fears, and hopes. All these, are just to be with
each other and encourage ourselves. So it was an
inspiration for me when I came to Nigeria, and I saw
many people coming out. It’s sad that people still see
cancer as a stigma and a cultural thing. It has nothing
to do with culture. Once you’ve had cancer you’ve had
cancer: but the good news is, you can live after cancer
because it doesn’t have to be a death sentence.
People need to come out and seek help. It’s a
disease, it can be cured if it’s detected early.
And people need to start spreading the word that
there is a support group that can help you through this
journey, rather than hiding in shame”.
For the CEO of B-Natural, Pamela Bello Olatunji,
being a part of this initiative is an honour and gives her
a purpose to the work she’s doing. She encourages
people to also support any cause that helps cancer
patients and survivor as anyone can be unfortunate to
be at the other end in future. “This is amazing and the
sad part is, it could be anybody. You can wake up this
month and think you’re cancer-free; but the next
minute, you’re not sure of what the diagnosis will be
tomorrow. So anything anyone can do to help people
who have unfortunately gotten their own diagnosis,
they should. And I applaud C.O.P.E for being
consistent in giving hope to people who have this sad
news to live with, and make others who will sadly get
their bad news that there is a place dedicated to
seeing them happy. I’m honoured and grateful to God
to be able to help in whatever capacity I can, and glad
that my business can find a way to give these women
the opportunity to treat themselves right and be
happy.”
The event also saw the distribution of donated
prostrate bras to some of the survivors.
October 13, 2019 / 11

Travails Of
The NigerianGirl-Child
“When I see how women are treated, I really don’t want to become one.” These are words of a 15-year-old girl, Zahra,
quoted in the French magazine GEO and it reveals the unattractive reality of the discrimination which Nigerian girls
and women suffer throughout their lives.
Being born and growing up as a girl child in Nigeria, is almost like a curse due to the contempt and inhumane
treatment many girls receive from the family, the school and the society at large.
Traditionally, most parents prefer boys to girls. Thus,
right from birth, the girl child is viewed and treated as
inferior or second‐class citizens. It is a calamity for a
woman to give birth to only girls. The consequence is
that, the husband must marry another wife so as to
ensure that his lineage does not go into extinction.
From birth, the girl child is subjected to derogatory
remarks and sometimes, lack proper care and attention
as against that which is given to her male counterpart.
The increasing effects of these discriminatory,
exploitative and unjust treatments have had profound
negative impacts on the psychological and social life of
the girl child, so much so that many girls grow up feeling
inadequate and sometimes, less important. Simply put,
the girl child in Nigeria, does not have the same
opportunity as boys. There are many challenging factors
militating against the girl child in Nigeria. The factors
include poor family background, leading to girls dropping
out from school to give the boys a chance to education;
religious isolation, disability, early marriage and
pregnancy, gender-driven violence, cultural discrimination
and attitudes against women’s status and role.
The importance of girl child education cannot be
overemphasized. It is a global human right concern
demanding legislation across the nations of the world as
girls are discriminated against.
Education of the girl child has shown to contribute
immensely to the development of the family, the
societyand the nation. A girl child education empower not
only the girl to become a self -sufficient adult capable of
taking a decision and controlling her life, but also,
contribute immensely to the development of the family,
the society and the nation at large. Early marriage is a
clear illustration of how millions of children are
marginalized due to severe protection deprivation. This
deprivation negatively impacts on other breakthroughs,
including child survival and development.
According to reports, Nigeria has one of the highest
child marriage prevalence rates in the world. In Nigeria,
39% of girls are married off before age 18 and 16% are
married before they turn 15 years old.
However, according to (Nigeria Demographic and
Health Surve) NDHS 2013, the number of Nigerian girls
that are married before their 18th birthday is as high as
58.2%. The prevalence of child marriage varies widely
across the country, but figures are as high as 76% in the
North West region, compared with 10% in the South
East. Early marriage often leads to early motherhood as
only 3% of the girls use contraception. Childbearing for
these child-brides is risky as many of these are not
physically ready for neither pregnancy nor labour. Many
of these girls end up with Vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) or
Recto-vaginal fistula (RVF) or a combination of both. In
fact, Nigeria has the highest prevalence of obstetric
fistula in the world, with between 400,000 and 800,000
women living with the problem, and about 20,000 new
cases each year. Ninety percent are untreated.
There is also the inability to access quality health
care services, poor access to safe childbirth services,
and lack of adequate and affordable emergency obstetric
care. In some parts of Nigeria, religion does not allow
women to deliver in the hospital. This is a taboo as the
husbands will not be happy to see their wives opening
up to a doctor for any form of virginal examination. So
from a young age, the girl child is taught how to deliver
her baby unassisted. This leads to infections and
sometimes, death.
Another challenge of the girl child is property rights.
The girl child, and indeed women are denied legal right
to own property or inherit the land, be it from their father
or husband. When a father leaves all sorts of wealth for
the children, most times, the female children have no
right to partake in the sharing of his wealth.
Levels of violence against girl children and women
are high. Chinwe Abara, of the National Council for Arts
and Culture (Federal Ministry of Culture And Tourism
Nigeria), in a paper noted that girls and women are
sexually harassed, abused and killed, even for rituals.
According to her, “When a woman is involved in adultery,
which of course is committed with a man, the woman
always gets punished by either public stoning or by
hanging, while the man walks away free.
“Rape is punishable by life imprisonment in Nigeria,
but there are sanctions in the Penal Code against
spousal rape. Societal pressure to keep silent and stigma
surrounding sexual violence means that few women
report sexual assaults.”Another problem of the girl-child,
who against all odds eventually grows up to become a
woman, gets married, but unfortunately loses her
husband is widowhood practice. Most widows contend
with accusations to being the cause of spousal deaths
and invariably, denied social and economic rights. “In
many instances, the family of a deceased husband will
claim rights to the couple’s property, leaving the widow
destitute. This is done under the impression that the
family of a deceased husband in customary practices, will
claim the couple’s property as well as claim her. This is
done in the pretense that they are under obligation to
take care of the widow and her children for the rest of
their lives. This to them justifies seizing the man’s
properties.”
It should be noted that some states have enacted
laws protecting the rights of widows. For example, the
Prohibition of Infringement of a Widower’s and Widow’s
Fundamental Human Rights Law, No.3 was enforced in
2001 in Enugu State. Traditionally, women play a passive
role in sex, her active organ is removed to avoid
promiscuity. Thus, her sexual need and enjoyment are
taken for granted. She has no right to enjoy sex because
her primary role in sexual intercourse is to satisfy her
partner and for procreation. In fact, some cultures even
cut off their clitoris from childhood, so the girl does not
grow up to be promiscuous!
The fact is that all these discriminations against girls
and women are affecting National development. To curb
these, parents should treat and raise children on the
basis of equity and equality; our societal quest for social
stratification or prestige on the basis of gender or sex,
should give way to equal opportunity for all citizens, and
the government at national and sub-national levels, need
to take the lead. The states that have not passed the
Child Rights Act, need to do so immediately and start
implementation. Also, the Nigerian constitutional
provision of equality for all citizens should be enforced to
the letter.
Furthermore, intensive efforts to foster a genderinclusive
culture from the family level through education,
across the board, up to higher education, in order to
promote sustainable human development, need to be
vigorously pursued by governmental and nongovernmental
organizations.
The Universal Basic Education Act 2004 14
mandates free and compulsory education for all children
up to the junior secondary level in Nigeria. The
government at the national and sub-national levels, must
ensure the effective implementation of this law as a key
first step towards reducing early marriage. The
government also needs to ensure that quality teaching
and learning are taking place in all primary and junior
secondary schools.
The issue of girl child education must be taken very
serious by both parents and the government, by banning
street hawking among school girls, discouraging early
marriage, and forced labour.
12 / October 13, 2019

Healing FOODS & Herbs
alkaline diet
Too Much Acid
Kills: Why We
Need to Alkalinize
our Diets
well. While fruits might seem acidic to the taste, they are actually alkaline once
consumed. These fruits include watermelon, pineapple, honeydew melon, limes,
lemon and paw paw. Lemon in particular is surprisingly highly medicinal and
helps alkalinizes the body. A good health tip is to squeeze the juice of one lemon
in a mug of hot spring/mineral water and drink it every morning on an empty
stomach. This is in addition to eating a healthy balanced diet.
The benefits of an alkaline diet includes boosting the immune system, fighting
cancer cells, weight loss, more energy, clearer skin, a better digestion and a
sharper memory.
In general, alkaline foods tend to be focused on making healthier options such
as eating more fruits and vegetables, so we are all urged to reduce eating foods or
drinks that are of no nutritional benefit, and improve on our consumption of
healthy, nutrient rich foods.
When you are eating your next meal, your plate should be 50-75% leafy greens
and vegetables, 25% healthy protein and 25% complex carbohydrates. This
reference can make it easy for you to make sure you are getting a
CARROT
balanced meal all the
cucumbers
SPINACH
LEMON
time.
Have a happy and
healthy week!
SWEET
POTATO
By - Tobi Ayodele Keeney
We all try our best to eat healthy, lose weight and stay
active. The main premise behind most of our healthy
living actions is to prevent chronic diseases from
occurring, and one new trend is to eat a more alkaline diet. Most
of us don’t even think our regular diets can be acidic or alkaline;
but, there is evidence to suggest that eating foods that are too high
in acid forming ingredients, can put us at risk for chronic diseases
such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease.
Tumors and cancer cells survive better in an acidic
environment, and they even produce acid in addition. This means
that even people who have conditions such as fibroids may be
consuming a diet high in acid forming foods
Acid forming foods have a pH of 4.6 or lower. These include
sugar, red meat, corned beef and processed meats, dairy products,
certain grains such as white rice and wheat, some high protein
foods and of course, processed foods, alcohol, soft drinks and
sweetened beverages. Soft drinks and sweetened beverages in
particular are very acidic coupled with the fact that they are not
healthy for you. The acid found in soft drinks has a pH of about
2.5, while battery acid’s pH is 1.0. This means you can rust a nail
inside a bottle of soft drink or use the liquid to remove rust and
tough stains from your toilet bowl! In comparison, the pH of pure
water is 7.0.
A possible solution to this can be the alkaline diet. This diet is
based on the concept that you can improve your body’s overall
health, based on eating foods that are slightly alkaline. The idea is
that acid forming foods put your body under more stress in an
attempt to balance its pH when it is metabolizing the food. This in
turn, puts you at higher risk for diseases such as brittle bones and
cancer.
What types of food should one eat that are alkaline? For
carbohydrates, try to eat root vegetables such as onions, carrots,
sweet potatoes and our local Nigerian yam. Good local grains to
eat include fonio (acha) and millet. Ginger, sea salt, most nuts and
seeds are also considered alkaline. Most green leafy vegetables
such as spinach, cucumber, celery, ugwu and kale are alkaline as

with Adesuwa 07011289316 | adesuwaewoigbokhan@hotmail.com
Sex After Breast Cancer
Talk
SPOT
By - Yemisi Suleiman
What some of your favourite
celebrities said and we listened.
Having sexual intimacy after breast cancer is a
very big challenge; as the treatments often result
in several sexual side effects which are not
universal. The type, dosage and duration, may
determine whether she will experience any
sexual side effects, and the kind she will
experience. Common side effects include vaginal
pain, dryness, irritation, soreness, numbness or
hypersensitivity of the breast area due to
surgery, radiation burns and changes in the
colour and texture of the breast, severe body
image tissues, burning and vaginal atrophy due
to chemotherapy and endocrine therapy.
‘’Their sexual schema sense of themselves
as sexual beings, is altered due to drastic
physical changes that they experience during
treatment,’’ Sabitha Pillai-Friedman a sex
therapist said.
Getting back to intercourse for a breast
cancer patient is usually a big hurdle in which the
onus is on them to overcome. There might be
the need to make some adjustments in order for
you to feel physically well enough to cope
emotionally with any kind of sexual activity.
Although some people might desire intimacy and
sex almost immediately, but this is not so for
everyone, and it is very vital to do what feels
right or works for you.
A number of women that are being treated for
breast cancer, find their sexual desire diminish.
Tthis can go on for months after treatment but
with time, the feeling starts to improve positively.
Sexual desire is one of the many reasons ladies
choose to be sexually intimate while other
reasons could include showing their lovebirds
that they love them, to feel close to or loved by
their spouse, getting back a sense of normality in
order to release tension, to give or return
comfort.
There is no need to swear off sex. It is still
important to feel good about your body, and be
close to your loved one. Here is how you can
revive your sex life.
It is natural to feel uncomfortable with your
man sexually after the surgery, as the last thing
14 / October 13, 2019
on a patient’s mind after being diagnosed and
undergoing treatmen Is sex. This is because she
might feel less sexual contact due to the side
effect of the treatment, changes to the body and
can be very devastating for intimate relationshi.
And if not properly handled, it may create an
invisible barrier between yourselves. Although
you may not desire intercourse but still crave for
the closeness that comes with intimacy.
Most patients often miss sharing a bed or
having a cuddle with their spouse but are too shy
to ask for these things. This is normal for real,
some people mistake sex and intimacy to be the
same thing; hence, they worry about being
intimatE because they don’t want to copulate. In
fact, what they long for Is closeness, comfort
from their significant other. Few are cool with just
sharing a bed and snuggling up with occasional
sexual intimacy which is not bad. The
fundamental thing as a couple, is the ability to be
able to share, and talk about your desires with
one another. Partners who regularly
accommodate differences in their needs to be
sexual, usually end up finding their own way of
solving it as couple.
You actually don’t need to worry about how
you look or be fearful of revealing your scar, if
that is how you feel, it is cool and normal. Just
take your time to get to know your new body at
your own pace. This may involve taking extra
time while bathing to gently explore your body, by
focusing on all your positive attributes like your
eyes, shapely legs, pointed nose, smooth skin,
etc. the list is endless. Also, you can spend time
with your guy, gradually reintroducing yourselves
through gentle massage and body exploration.
You may discover places you did not know were
nice to be touched. With time, you can widen this
exploration to gentle sexual exploration of each
other.
Note, making love with your spouse is a two
way process. You may find that you get aroused
and turned on through touching in new places,
while the old ones’ may not feel so good anymore
[ chemotherapy can cause problems with the
nerve endings in sexual areas].
Feel free to change sex positions if you
experience pain or discomfort with your old
sexual styles, and experiment with new ones
which can be an enjoyable thing to do. Ladies
often find the need to use extra lubrications.
Some women find the water-based work best for
them. Your personal doctor should be able to
discuss this with you.
Do not feel isolated by your emotions. Just
know that others are facing the same issues and
feeling exactly the same way you do. So, don’t
personalize your problem and the best thing you
can do is to open up with your feelings.
Having your spouse’ support and
communicating with your doctor, mental health
professional or a sex therapist is the way to go in
regaining sexual intimacy after breast cancer.
Communication is key.
“Originality sells; Mercy was
just being herself, she’s a
beautiful woman who doesn’t
hide her emotions, she played
the game but her heart was in
it, she wasn’t acting a script”.
Wale Aladejana,
celebrating Mercy, winner of
BBNaija season 4.
“Such an honor to be
your mom. These past
few weeks have given
me more insight to your
heart and how much you
love God. He’s in the
business of loving you at
all times unconditionally”.
Ufuoma Mcdermott
specially celebrating her
son.
“When I am hurt or broken, I cry
my eyes out in the comfort of my
bedroom. Get up, wash my face
and move on, instead of coming
to Instagram to rant, shout and
fight”.
NKECHI BLESSING on how she
deals with heartbreaks.
“May God position you to meet
strangers who will like you for
absolutely no reason, who will
help you, support you, assist
you, without asking you for
anything in return”.
Style Icon, KATE HENSHAW in
a prayer mood.

MY LAGOS
ADVENTURE
By Odun Ogunbiyi
remember a time when I could go out all night, then bounce into
I work and pull off a 24-hour shift (in my past life, I was a hospital
pharmacy resident) with absolutely no sweat. Nowadays, it takes 4
to 5 working days to recover from a glass of wine at a dinner party.
Who do I send my official complaints to about this?
It has taken me almost a week to recover from my dad’s 80th
birthday and I was not even the celebrant! I had just enough
energy to go into production for my accessories brand Aunt
Harriet’s for the new Aladun collection—this so I did not feel
completely useless this week.
This is Oddbod and the City – My Lagos Adventure.
...Oddbod & The City
Aladun in Neon
family
The
Ibadan
Road Trip
After weeks of anxiety over my travel plans
to Ibadan (the Ibadan expressway is under
construction and the usual security concerns),
I am pleased to report that my journey could
not have gone any smoother. Despite some
torrential rains, it was blissfully uneventful.
The venue, the International Conference
Centre at the University of Ibadan, was a
pleasant surprise. Built in 2009, 10 years later,
it still has the air of somewhere brand spanking
new. Good space, huge parking facilities, good
amenities, and most importantly, the kind of air
conditioning you dream of when you are in a
room with a couple of hundred people.
It really was a well organised event; the food
was amazing and the service seamless. I may
be a little biased; it was so much fun catching
up with friends and family who had gathered
General Akinrinade & Wife
from all over the globe, and I never tire of
hearing about the exploits of my father from his
friends and former colleagues.
It really was quite a turn out; and I know my
father and we the family, are grateful to everyone
involved in the organisation, as well as all the
guests who braved the weather and the journey
to make the day an amazing celebration.
I don’t know what comes over me when I am
making that journey back on the road, but I
always buy fruit, vegetables, bread, and random
things like brooms. It’s something I remember
my mother doing every time when we made our
way back from regular holiday visits to our home
in Yakoyo in Osun State. Ibadan bread has that
fresh out the baking pan aura and is ridiculously
soft. Does anybody else have this affliction?
Aladun clear
Hand sanitiser
Rainy Season Blues – Public
Service Announcement
It is the post-monsoon rainy season and I feel I was a bit
unprepared for the amount of rain we are dealing with. It
comes fast, it comes hard, and it comes loud.
It also seems to have come and unearthed a particularly
virulent strain of the flu. Everyone is coming down with
it, and I know of a school in the Lekki area, that had to
close down for a week to try and stop its rampant spread
through the student population.
As usual, I am taking as much precautions as I can during
this season. If you are sick, the kindest thing you can do
is isolate yourself from friends and colleagues, to prevent
the illness from spreading. Ideally, stay away a further 24
hours after the fever has subsided.
Equally, if you have sick friends stay away. I know this
sounds evil but there are no brownie points for contracting
and spreading the virus further. Also, regular hand
washing is imperative. I roll with alcohol hand
sanitiser in my handbag (easily available
at any chemist) for use when I am out and
about. And remember, children need frequent
reminders to wash their hands—they are the
real gatekeepers to the spread of viruses.
I am not asking you to join me in the land of
OCD cleaning, but regular cleaning of surfaces
in your home and office with disinfectant, will
go a long way towards reducing your exposure
risk. Door handles and anywhere that gets
frequent “hand traffic” are the areas to focus
on.
If you are using public transport, you especially
want to use your hand sanitizer after dealing
with the surfaces you have encountered and,
keep your hands away from your face; viruses
make their way in via the eyes, nose, and
mouth.
Thank you for coming to my TED talk.
For further information about my adventures check out my Instagram @le_Oddbod
October 13, 2019 /
15

INSTAGRAM
MOMENTS
With Yemisi Suleiman
In case you missed, these were the most interesting pictures and
stories on Instagram last week as posted by your favourite celebrities.
Giving Help Arena plans
big for widows
Mrs. Adebimpe Akinfolajinmi, CEO of Honeybols,
who is best described as Husband of widows’ due to
her love for helping widows and orphans for over 17
years, is hosting the fourth edition of her foundation’s
outreach today, Sunday, October 13.
Delighted to share the news via her handle, this
philanthropist will be hosting over 200 widows,
empowering most of them and giving scholarships
to some orphans, with the support of the office of the
First Lady of Lagos State and her friends.
The event will be taking place at Agege Local
Government, Lagos.
President
Muhammadu
Buhari’s marriage
speculations
Social media has been
awash with tales of
the President and
Commander-in-Chief,
President Muhammadu
Buhari taking a new wife
last Friday, but impeccable
sources dismissed the
stories, pictures, videos,
invitation cards, as
handiwork of “irresponsible
people seeking to cause
confusion in the seat of
government...”
Meanwhile, wife of the
President Aisha Buhari is
back to Aso Rock Villa. She
was said to have arrived
Friday morning after a two
month stay abroad.
Tiwa Savage lashes
female Radio
Presenters
Nigerian singer, Tiwa Savage, has reacted to
a viral video of some female radio presenters
insulting her while in the studio, which was leaked
on social media.
The three On-Air personalities at City 105.1 FM
in Lagos State were caught on tape slandering
Tiwa and another singer, Yemi Alade, while in the
studio.
Tiwa took to her Instagram page to express
her displeasure, saying, “The so-called female
gatekeepers that are supposed to help fellow
female artists are the ones abusing female artists
not knowing cameras were still rolling”.
She also said, “To the ladies in the video hope
you keep the same energy when you see me in
person.”
Regina Daniels marks
birthday in Style
Now an adult actress, Regina Daniels and husband
Ned Nwoko celebrated her 20th birthday in Dubai,
last week. An excited Regina, flooded our Instagram
timelines with beautiful pictures from the occasion,
accompanied by a message for her husband. She
wrote: “Sometimes, someone comes into your life,
so unexpectedly, takes your heart by surprise and
changes your life forever.”