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Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu: The Trailblazing Advocate for Women’s Health and Empowerment

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How the former First Lady of Ondo State turned personal loss and passion into a national movement for cancer awareness and women’s rights

A Woman of Strength and Vision

The woman in the image is Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, a distinguished Nigerian figure celebrated for her work in public health advocacy, philanthropy, and women’s empowerment. As the former First Lady of Ondo State and the widow of late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, she has left a lasting mark on Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.

Born in Owerri, Imo State, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu’s journey from a young student in Eastern Nigeria to a national voice for women’s rights and breast cancer awareness reflects resilience, courage, and determination.

Early Life and Education

Betty Chioma Anyanwu was born in 1953 in Emeabiam, Owerri West Local Government Area, of Imo State. From an early age, she exhibited a keen interest in education and community development — traits that would later define her public service.

She attended Archdeacon Crowther Memorial Girls’ School, Elelenwo, Port Harcourt, before earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in 1977. Betty later obtained a Master’s degree in Fisheries (Aquaculture) from the University of the Philippines Visayas, under a UNDP/FAO scholarship.

Her academic excellence and passion for health sciences positioned her to become one of Nigeria’s leading voices in public health advocacy.

Career and Rise to Prominence

Before her tenure as First Lady, Betty worked with the Federal Department of Fisheries in Lagos, where she served as an aquaculturist and contributed to Nigeria’s efforts in developing sustainable fish farming practices.

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However, her life took a deeply personal turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997. Surviving the illness became a turning point — one that transformed her from a civil servant into an outspoken advocate for cancer awareness and women’s health.

Founding of BRECAN

In 1997, following her recovery, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu founded the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN), a non-governmental organisation dedicated to raising awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting survivors of breast cancer across the country.

BRECAN quickly grew into one of Nigeria’s most respected advocacy groups, holding public enlightenment campaigns, partnering with hospitals, and establishing community outreach programmes. Through her leadership, thousands of women received education, screenings, and emotional support.

Her popular slogan, “Pink is not just a colour — it’s a call to action,” became a national rallying cry for cancer awareness.

First Lady of Ondo State: Redefining the Role

When her husband, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, became Governor of Ondo State in 2017, Betty used her platform as First Lady to amplify social causes rather than pursue ceremonial functions.

She launched several initiatives, including:

BEMORE Empowered Initiative: A programme aimed at training young girls in ICT, solar technology, and entrepreneurship — equipping them with modern skills to compete globally.

Gender Equality Campaigns: Advocating for the inclusion of women in politics and leadership roles.

Health Advocacy: Continuing her mission to promote breast cancer screening and preventive healthcare.

Under her leadership, Ondo State saw a renewed emphasis on youth empowerment and women’s education, solidifying her reputation as one of the most active and influential First Ladies in Nigeria’s recent history.

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Political Aspirations and Advocacy

In 2023, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu declared her intention to contest for the Imo East Senatorial District seat under the All Progressives Congress (APC). Her candidacy represented a bold step for women in politics — a continuation of her long-standing fight for representation and inclusion.

However, she later withdrew from the race, citing irregularities within the party’s primary process. Despite stepping back, her campaign left an enduring message about fairness, integrity, and women’s participation in governance.

Personal Life and Legacy

Betty was married to Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu (SAN), a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and two-term Governor of Ondo State. The couple married in 1981 and had four children.

Her husband passed away in December 2023, after a long battle with prostate cancer. His death was deeply felt across Nigeria, but Betty remained a symbol of strength and continuity — standing firm in her advocacy even amid personal grief.

Continuing Her Mission

Today, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu remains active in civic and health-related causes. Her work through BRECAN continues to save lives and shape public health policy in Nigeria. She frequently speaks at national and international conferences, advocating for early cancer detection, research funding, and support systems for women.

Her enduring impact is reflected in the thousands of women empowered through her initiatives, the countless families touched by her compassion, and the young girls inspired by her unwavering confidence.

References

Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN) Official Website

Vanguard News (2023): “Betty Akeredolu Withdraws from Imo East Senatorial Race”

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Declare Your Lineage – Royal Family Tells Musician KWAM 1 Over His Interest In Becoming Next Awujale Of Ijebuland

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December 7, 2025

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KWAM 1, in a letter dated December 3, 2025, addressed to the chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Agunsebi Quarters, Ijebu-Ode, announced his interest in the stool, describing himself as a “bonafide son” of the ruling house.

The Fusengbuwa ruling house of Ijebu-Ode, next in line to produce the new Awujale of Ijebuland, Ogun State, has instructed Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1, to confirm his family’s royal lineage to validate his membership in the ruling house.

KWAM 1, in a letter dated December 3, 2025, addressed to the chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Agunsebi Quarters, Ijebu-Ode, announced his interest in the stool, describing himself as a “bonafide son” of the ruling house.

KWAM 1 also stated that his candidacy aligns with Ijebu customary law and the Ogun State Chieftaincy Laws.

In an interview with Punch, the Chairman of the ruling house and former National President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Abdulateef Owoyemi, said only bonafide members of the family would be allowed to participate in the selection process.

Owoyemi explained that KWAM 1, Olori Omooba of Ijebu land and others interested in the stool have been directed to complete the Fusengbuwa ruling house royal lineage data form.

According to him, the form, which requires contenders to trace their genealogy back seven generations, ensures that only genuine princes from the family can participate, thereby blocking “strangers” from claiming the throne.

He said, “The first step for anyone interested in contesting for the Awujale throne is to declare their lineage by filling the standard Fusengbuwa ruling house royal lineage data form. Once confirmed as a legitimate member of the ruling house, they can then apply for the expression of interest form.

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“We have told him, just like everyone else interested in the Awujale throne, that the first step is to declare his lineage. He will do this by completing the royal lineage data form, showing his full name, which parent and grandparent he descends from, and continuing up to seven generations.

“The completed form will be signed and submitted to the head of the ruling house unit of the Fusengbuwa ruling house, who will affirm that he is a genuine member. Only then will the process move forward.”

Owoyemi emphasised that although the application window for the throne officially closed on December 5, KWAM 1 had been given a five-day extension, which would lapse on December 10.

He noted, “We won’t shut anybody out of picking the next Awujale, but we must ensure that you are a legitimate member of Fusengbuwa. Every right comes with responsibilities. For a royal family, everyone must prove their legitimacy by completing the royal lineage data form.

“When we receive the form, we will review it meticulously. If clarification is needed, we will contact the applicant. We welcome men of influence who will use their influence to enhance the throne, not to claim it, ensuring that what truly belongs to our family is preserved.”

Owoyemi explained that the local government has given them 14 days to select candidates, and the ruling house hopes to have a new Awujale by the second or third week of January 2026.

He added, “The local government has given us 14 days to select candidates, which expires on December 18. After that, the kingmakers have seven days to deliberate and choose one candidate, whose name will be forwarded to the governor.

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“Legally, the government then has 21 days to conduct background checks and security clearance, allowing for objections or protests. After this period, the State Executive Council will ratify the nominee, and the governor will announce the next Awujale, after which coronation rites will commence.

“So, combining the candidate selection, kingmakers’ deliberation, and legal objection period, we are looking at around 42 days. Therefore, we expect the next Awujale to emerge between the second and third week of January.”

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VIDEO: I’m Married But Not In My Husband’s House; I Didn’t Have The Experience Of Living Happily Ever After – Singer Shola Allyson Reveals

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December 7, 2025

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While speaking about her love life, the 54-year-old who came into limelight with a love album ‘Eji Owuro’, revealed that she is married but not living with her husband.

Sola Allyson, the popular Nigerian gospel singer, has revealed that she is not currently living with her husband.

The musician made this known in her latest interview on Oyinmomo TV.

While speaking about her love life, the 54-year-old who came into limelight with a love album ‘Eji Owuro’, revealed that she is married but not living with her husband.

Sharing her marital experience, the singer said she has never enjoyed the kind of happiness many people describe.

“I’m married, but I’m not in my husband’s house. We live separately. He in his house and I in mine.”

The interviewer asked: “You sang ‘Eji Owuro’, did you experience genuine love from your husband?

She replied, “We lied before. Those older than us didn’t inform us that it’s tough. They made us believe that so long as you both love each other, you will live happily ever after, but it’s a lie.

“That’s not the experience I have. I didn’t have the experience of living happily ever after. I did all I could to make it work.

“Marriage has been a big challenge. I hear people talk about joy in marriage, but I have never experienced it.”

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VIDEO: Shola Allyson Finally Opens Up, Reveals Why She Does Not Reference Jesus In Her Songs

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December 7, 2025

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Recall that Allyson, who is regarded as a gospel singer, was dragged on social media in March 2025 for not directly referencing ‘Jesus’ in all her songs.

Shola Allyson, the renowned Nigerian songstress, has opened up on the real reason she avoids mentioning the name of Jesus in all her songs.

Recall that Allyson, who is regarded as a gospel singer, was dragged on social media in March 2025 for not directly referencing ‘Jesus’ in all her songs.

Reacting to her critics in a post on X, the songstress stated that “No one can bully me into joining their darkness that looks like light because indolent souls find comfort in it”.

Finally revealing her reason for not mentioning Jesus in her songs, Shola Allyson on Saturday during her latest interview on Oyinmomo TV, stated that Jesus did not ask her to do PR for him.

She said “I’m not a religious singer. As I am, I have never introduced myself as a gospel singer. My name is Shola Allyson. I’m a singer”.

Interviewer; “Some people said you don’t mention ‘Jesus’ name’ in all your songs”.

She quickly responded “Jesus did not instruct us to mention his name in songs nor did Jesus ask us to do PR for Him”.

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