Sola Salako-Ajulo, widely known as “Consumer Mama,” has been named the Iconic Woman of the Month for March 2026 by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos Chapter.

The recognition honours her more than two decades of advocacy for consumer rights in Nigeria, highlighting her role in shaping policies, raising awareness, and empowering citizens to understand and enforce their rights.

Championing Consumer Rights for Over 20 Years

Mrs. Salako-Ajulo began her journey in 2003 with the influential column Handwriting on the Wall, which quickly became a trusted voice for Nigerian consumers. Over the years, her work has evolved from journalism into large-scale activism.

She founded the Consumer Advocacy Foundation of Nigeria (CAFON), where she spearheaded landmark campaigns including the #NoBankingDay Protest in 2016, which challenged excessive bank charges and reshaped consumer protections in the Nigerian financial sector.

She is also the author of Protect Yourself: Your Naija Guide To Consumer Right And Protection, a handbook designed to make complex regulations accessible to everyday Nigerians.

Recently, she launched the CAFON Consumers Companion (3C), an AI-powered platform providing Nigerians with 24/7 digital guidance on their consumer rights.

“Sola Salako-Ajulo is a force for justice in the marketplace,” said Jumoke Johnson, Chairperson of NAWOJ Lagos.

“Where consumers face exploitation, she provides the education and tools for redress. Her life’s work proves the power of a single, determined voice to create national change.”

Recognition and Industry Praise

Her peers have consistently acknowledged her contributions:

Marketing Journalist of the Year, Nigeria Marketing Awards (2023–2025)

Brand Journalist of the Year, ADVAN African Awards (2025)

The NAWOJ Lagos Chairperson emphasised that Mrs. Salako-Ajulo’s work exemplifies the transformative impact of women in media and civil society.

Why It Matters

Consumer rights in Nigeria remain a critical area for economic fairness. Advocacy initiatives like those led by Mrs. Salako-Ajulo help protect citizens from exploitation while promoting transparency in business and finance. Her work also demonstrates how journalism can evolve into activism with measurable societal impact.

What’s Next

NAWOJ Lagos plans to continue celebrating women leaders who drive social change. Mrs. Salako-Ajulo’s recognition is part of a broader effort to inspire future generations of female advocates across Nigeria.

Pernod Ricard Nigeria has highlighted its ongoing commitment to gender equity and inclusion by hosting its Women’s Network forum, titled “Women Who Raise the Bar.” The event celebrated women as leaders, innovators, and cultural influencers across business, creativity, and community.

Speaking at the event, Managing Director Michael Ehindero said the initiative was inspired by this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain.” He emphasized that empowering women to lead and create strengthens both organisations and communities.

“When women are empowered to lead, create, and influence, organisations and communities are stronger for it,” Ehindero said.

Spotlight on Women Shaping Culture

The forum featured a panel of leaders across multiple industries, including Susan Anisa Younis, Ibukun Abidoye, Abuchi Peter Ugwu, and Tola Akerele. They shared insights on how women influence culture, from building value-driven businesses to owning narratives and shaping African stories for global audiences.

Dr. Joshua Ademuwagun, Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s Human Resources Director and keynote speaker, highlighted the importance of creating environments where women can thrive. He applauded women across the organisation for their resilience and achievements.

“It is critical to provide platforms where women can excel and lead. Their contributions fuel innovation, growth, and cultural impact,” Ademuwagun said.

Personal Reflections from Women Leaders

Nnenna Duru, Corporate Affairs Manager, described the programme as transformative.

“‘Women Who Raise the Bar’ challenged me to think intentionally about supporting other women and celebrating our achievements. It was a powerful reminder that our impact matters,” she said.

The forum reinforced Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s positioning as a people-first organisation committed to inclusive leadership and meaningful conversations at the intersection of culture and business.

Why It Matters

Promoting women in leadership is increasingly seen as key to economic growth and social development. Studies suggest organisations with gender-diverse leadership are more innovative, resilient, and effective. Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s initiative aligns with global trends prioritising equity and mentorship as drivers of sustainable growth.

What’s Next

Pernod Ricard Nigeria plans to continue the Women’s Network as a platform for mentorship, dialogue, and leadership development. The company’s efforts reflect its broader strategy of fostering inclusion and empowering employees across all levels.

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, has hosted a surprise appreciation event for female officers to mark International Women’s Day 2026.

The event, held on 27 March at the Customs House in Maitama, Abuja, celebrated women’s contributions to the Service, with officers and members of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association receiving roses in recognition of their service.

Why it matters

The gesture highlights growing calls for gender inclusion and recognition in Nigeria’s paramilitary institutions.

Women in uniformed services often face structural and cultural barriers, making public recognition a significant step towards institutional change.

“Recognition should not wait” — Adeniyi

Speaking at the event, Adeniyi said the initiative was intentionally designed to move beyond routine ceremonies and spotlight women whose work often goes unnoticed.

“I know you did not come here expecting this. That is exactly the point. Too often, recognition comes only when it is convenient or when it fits neatly into a calendar. Today, we chose to do something different.”

He acknowledged the traditions of a paramilitary structure but stressed the importance of celebrating women’s roles within it.

“This is a paramilitary organisation, and we are guided by tradition and protocol. But today, we are united by a common purpose, which is to celebrate the women of the Nigeria Customs Service.”

Women ‘central to operations’

Adeniyi described female officers as critical to the agency’s effectiveness across the country.

“You are central to what we do. I want to appreciate all of you serving in different capacities across the country for your resilience and commitment to duty.”

He added that the initiative aims to reinforce a culture that values dedication and performance regardless of gender.

Support from families and communities

In her remarks, Kikelomo Adeniyi, President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association, said the event recognised both direct and indirect contributions of women to the Service.

“This is indeed a special occasion for us to recognise the resilience, dedication and hard work of women who continue to support the Service both directly and indirectly.”

She praised the Customs leadership for promoting inclusion and opportunities for women.

“Our women are not just supporting actors; they are active contributors to the progress we are recording as a Service.”

Industry and public perspective

Gender advocates say such initiatives are essential in reshaping workplace culture in Nigeria’s security and paramilitary sectors.

Experts note that sustained policies — beyond symbolic events — are key to improving representation, career advancement, and welfare for women in uniform.

What’s next

The Nigeria Customs Service says it will continue to prioritise inclusivity as part of its broader reform agenda, including welfare and empowerment programmes for officers and their families.

Observers say the impact of such initiatives will depend on how they translate into long-term institutional policies.