"Women must take part in creating policies and legislation that reflect the society they want to live in"
Toyin Ojora Saraki
A brief introduction
As Founder-President of The Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA), Mrs Toyin Ojora Saraki is a global advocate for women’s and children’s health and empowerment, with two decades of advocacy covering reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health; ending gender-based discrimination and violence; and improving education, socio-economic empowerment, and community livelihoods in sub-Saharan Africa.
Mrs Saraki is the Emeritus Global Goodwill Ambassador for the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM); special adviser to the Independent Advisory Group (IAG) of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Regional Office for Africa (AFRO), was named by Devex as UHC Global Champion, is the Save the Children Newborn Health Champion for Nigeria; and is a Global Champion for the White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood
IN FOCUS FROM April 9th, 2026
As a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, with 37 years at the Bar, I was honoured to attend the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Annual Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice in Lagos, a convening which advances legal practice and strengthens justice administration in Nigeria. Under the […]
IN FOCUS FROM April 7th, 2026
Today, on World Health Day, I echo and advance the World Health Organization’s global call, grounded in urgency and collective responsibility, Together for Health, Stand with Science. This year’s World Health Day is marked by a convergence of scientific leadership and multilateral coordination through the One Health Summit in Lyon under the French G7 Presidency […]
IN FOCUS FROM March 27th, 2026
I welcome the release of the Bayer Sustainability Council 2025 Annual Report, to which I was honoured to contribute through active advisory engagement, strategic review, and the provision of systems-level insight alongside my fellow Council members. As an independent body of global experts, the Council plays a vital role in both supporting and constructively challenging Bayer’s […]
The e-health check tool is available for free at https://covid19.wbfafrica.org/ and users can access real-time updates on how to stay connected, safe, and healthy during the pandemic on Instagram and Twitter @Wellbeing_PPMD, and @WellbeingPPMD on Facebook.
Speeches Section
SPEECH FROM December 17th, 2025
A Quiet Revolution in Care: WASH as the Foundation of Health System Quality By: H.E. Mrs Toyin Ojora Saraki & John Oldfield There is an invisibly simple way to assess whether a health system is structurally capable of delivering safe care, particularly at the moment when life is most vulnerable, and it is not found […]
SPEECH FROM December 10th, 2025
On Human Rights Day 2025, the world reasserts a continued promise that human rights are the everyday essentials of a life lived in freedom and dignity. Seventy-seven years ago, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was proclaimed as a “common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations,” a global blueprint for laws and […]
SPEECH FROM October 7th, 2025
Foreword by H.E. Toyin Saraki As we mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month under the World Health Organization’s theme Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters, I am honoured to spotlight the newly released Devex feature, “New Index Aims to Help Countries Close Breast Cancer Care Gaps,” following my conversation with Senior Editor Rumbi Chakamba during […]
As a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, with 37 years at the Bar, I was honoured to attend the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Annual Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice @NBA_SLP in Lagos, a convening which advances legal practice and strengthens justice administration in Nigeria.
Under the forward-looking theme, Evolving Trends: Nigerian Legal Practice, Global Perspectives, the conference brings together leading voices from the Bar, the Bench, government, academia, and industry, reflecting a collective responsibility to shape a legal profession that is responsive to national priorities and aligned with global standards.
I was pleased to join distinguished leaders, including the Chair of the NBA Section on Legal Practice, Folashade Alli SAN, and to hear the keynote address delivered by H.E. Dr Olufemi Elias, Judge ad hoc at the International Court of Justice, alongside the presence of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, who delivered special remarks and formally opened the conference, and whose leadership continues to guide the administration of justice at the highest level.
In Lagos, a dynamic legal and commercial hub, and as the legal landscape undergoes transformation driven by technological innovation and shifting expectations, the convening sets an influential tone for dialogue, partnership, and reform, highlighting the imperative for practitioners to embrace modernisation, deepen professional excellence, and engage meaningfully with international frameworks while safeguarding the integrity of our legal systems.
The conference also marked the launch of the NBA-SLP National Law Firm Directory 2026, the official directory of law firms in Nigeria, enhancing transparency, visibility, and professional connectivity across the sector.
I commend the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice for convening such a consequential forum, and for its continued leadership in fostering professional development, inclusivity, and distinction across the legal community.
#NBASLP2026
#NBASLPConference
#NBASLPEvolvingTrends2026
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Dearest Gentle Reader,
I was delighted to attend the Bridgerton Ladies’ Soirée, graciously hosted by “Lady Tosin Teaton of Nelshire”, bringing together an inspiring assembly of accomplished women in a setting of elegance and thoughtful exchange; so themed to signal the launch of the FIDAP Foundation.
In such company, one is reminded that true distinction lies in purpose and in the collective strength of women shaping communities and futures alike.
Just as the finest houses of society are remembered not only for their grace but for the good they bring to the world, so too may this Foundation stand as a beacon of purpose, generosity and hope for generations to come. My sincere appreciation to our host for curating an afternoon of such refinement and meaningful connection.
#Bridgerton @bridgertonnetflix
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Today on #WorldHealthDay, I echo the @WHO global call for collective action, Together for Health, Stand with Science, grounded in urgency, equity and shared responsibility.
As a member of the @WHO Civil Society Commission and an accredited Non-State Actor with @WHO_Africa, the @WellbeingAfrica Foundation, through the Wellbeing Africa Institute of Research and Development #WAIRD, is engaging alongside nearly 800 scientific institutions across more than 80 countries convened through the One Health Summit in Lyon and the WHO Global Forum of Collaborating Centres.
The #OneHealth approach recognises the interdependence of human, animal and environmental health. With over 60% of emerging infectious diseases originating in animals, and with climate and ecosystem pressures accelerating risk, integrated and science led responses across sectors are essential.
At #WBFA, this is reflected in our work across maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health systems, where prevention, safe care and community level action intersect with wider environmental and public health determinants.
To stand with science is to protect the institutions, partnerships and financing that translate evidence into equitable outcomes, and to sustain trust in public health guidance at every level.
#WellbeingForAll
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Over the Easter break, it was a pleasure to celebrate Lagos’ vibrant waterfront vision at the launch of @LokoSportsLounge and Houseboats.
Alongside sister destinations @KokoBeachLagos and @MakoLagos, this exciting addition reflects the growing potential of leisure, hospitality, and waterfront sport, luxury and cultural experiences to position Lagos and Nigeria as premier tourism destinations.
Investments like these highlight the creativity, enterprise, and ambition shaping our city’s rising global appeal. 🌊🇳🇬
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The stone has been rolled away. The grave is empty. Hope lives again.
The Lion of the Tribe of Judah, our risen Lord, Jesus Christ, has triumphed. As proclaimed in the Bible, “Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah… has triumphed.” (Revelation 5:5)
Easter celebrates the triumph of life over death and light over darkness; May the promise of the Resurrection renew our faith and inspire us to serve one another with compassion.
The Lion has risen, hope walks the earth again. Kristi ti jinde, lootọ. Alleluia. ✨🕊️🌅
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Holy Week is a sacred journey of reflection, sacrifice, and hope.
Good Friday invites us to pause at the cross, remembering the depth of love and sacrifice that changed the course of humanity. In the solemnity of this day, we hold fast to faith, even in the shadow of sorrow.
For the story does not end here.
Sunday is coming.
May this Holy Week renew our hearts with compassion, strengthen our faith in moments of trial, and remind us that beyond the darkest night, resurrection and new life await.
Wishing everyone a blessed and joyful Easter!
#HolyWeek
#GoodFriday
#HappyEaster
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Yesterday`s Holy Wednesday marked the Burial Service of beloved late Mrs Oluwakemi Oyeteju James at the Daystar Christian Centre, Lagos, a moment of sorrow, but also of profound gratitude for a life well lived and a God whose grace sustains even in our deepest grief.
May Almighty God comfort the James, Oyediran, Macaulay, and Ojikutu families in the knowledge that Kemi is safe and well at peace in His arms.
Amen.
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The words of 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 resonated deeply as I joined the family of the beloved late Mrs Oluwakemi Oyeteju James yesterday, alongside her loved ones, at her Service of Songs held at the Daystar Christian Centre, Lagos.
Kemi, as she was affectionately known, was a woman of remarkable character, a devoted wife to Mr Michael Effiong James, a loving mother to their daughter, Kufreabasi Oluwatoyin, and their son, Aniete, and an ethical entrepreneur whose passion for excellence defined everything she touched. Through Limelight Caterings Limited, she built a brand rooted in quality, integrity, and the simple belief that food should nourish and delight in equal measure.
Her passing is a profound loss, yet the life she lived is a legacy that will endure far beyond her years. May God grant the James, Oyediran, Macaulay, and Ojikutu families peace that surpasses all understanding in the days ahead.
Amen
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The introduction of my darling god-daughter Temitope and Maro brought together the Coker and Malaka families in a meaningful expression of unity and shared intention. It reflected the importance of tradition as a foundation for partnership, grounding the union in respect and collective support.
Such moments carry significance, shaping not only the beginning of a shared life, but the strength of the journey that follows. Wishing them both a future guided by mutual respect, understanding, and lasting happiness!
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As I attended the fragrance unveiling of Alethea K, An Intimate Expression of Elegance Crafted to Linger, I experienced a carefully composed expression of refinement, creativity, and enduring elegance. It reflected a thoughtful appreciation for craftsmanship and the power of scent to evoke memory, identity, and emotion.
I wish the team at @aletheak_lifestyle every success as this creation finds its place and lingers with meaning in the world!
#AletheaK
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I had the pleasure of joining family and friends in celebrating our dear Chief Mrs Nike Makinde on her 70th birthday, in an evening that so beautifully reflected the life she has lived and the values she embodies.
Sister Nike’s undeniable beauty, grace, generosity, and strength have left a lasting impression on so many. Wishing her continued joy, good health, and abundant blessings in the years ahead.
#HappyBirthday
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As I begin the work week, I extend my warmest congratulations to my dear sister and partner in impact H.E. @MonicaGeingos on the conferment of an Honorary Doctorate in Philosophy (Honoris Causa) from the @University_of_Johannesburg.
This distinguished honour recognises a life defined by principled leadership and sustained service to social justice and human development across our continent. During her tenure as First Lady of Namibia, and as President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development @OAFLAD, Monica demonstrated how public leadership can be used with purpose to expand access to health, education, and opportunity for women and young people. Through the @OneEconomyFoundation and the #BeFree movement, she continues to advance a clear and deeply human vision for inclusive development.
It has been a privilege to work alongside her through @AfricaREACH1, where, as Chair of the Leadership Council, she has driven African-led advocacy and action for the health and wellbeing of children, adolescents, and young people.
I join many others in celebrating this well-deserved recognition and look forward to continued partnership in service of dignity, equity, and opportunity across Africa.
#WellbeingForAll
#MaternalMonday
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I am sincerely grateful for the condolence visit and kind expressions of sympathy from Honourable Justice Adenike Josephine Coker, a distinguished Judge of the High Court of Lagos State since 2001, who currently serves on the bench of the High Court of The Gambia, and is an accomplished legal practitioner educated in Lagos and at King’s College London.
The judicial office embodies exceptional wisdom, unassailable integrity, and an unwavering commitment to justice, as reflected in her distinguished service, standing among the eminent Nigerian jurists who have served, and continue to serve, with distinction in The Gambia.
Her presence, grace, and words of comfort were deeply appreciated during this time, and I thank her for honouring the memory of my late father with such dignity and compassion.
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I welcome the release of the @BayerOfficial Sustainability Council 2025 Annual Report, to which I was honoured to contribute through active advisory engagement, strategic review, and the provision of systems-level insight alongside my fellow Council members.
As an independent body of global experts, the Council plays a vital role in both supporting and constructively challenging Bayer’s leadership, ensuring that sustainability commitments are not simply ambitious but measurable, accountable, and firmly anchored in real-world impact.
This year’s report reflects meaningful progress at scale, with Bayer reaching more than 80 million people in undersupported communities through self-care interventions and 68 million women with access to modern contraception, while continuing to advance its ambition to reach 100 million women annually by 2030. These figures reflect tangible progress, representing lives improved, choices expanded, and futures strengthened across communities where access has too often been limited.
My contribution to this work has been shaped by a sustained focus on the intersection of climate and health, particularly through African and Nigerian perspectives, where the impacts of climate change are already accelerating risks for maternal, newborn, and child health. Across many communities, heat stress, food insecurity, and shifting disease patterns are converging in ways that place additional strain on families and health systems, and it is essential that these lived realities inform global strategy and decision-making.
The report further highlights advances in nutrition, agriculture, and global health delivery, from expanding access to micronutrients to supporting smallholder farmers and strengthening supply chains in low and middle-income settings.
I look forward to continuing this important collaboration with fellow Council members, Bayer teams, and through my @WellbeingAfrica Foundation as we work collectively to advance climate, nutrition and health integration, strengthen systems, and deliver meaningful progress for communities across Africa and globally.
#StrongerTogether
#HealthForAll
#WellbeingForAll
#HungerForNone
#FrontlineFriday
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This week, my @WellbeingAfrica Foundation was actively engaged at the International Maternal Newborn Health Conference 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya, convened by @AlignMNH.Community, bringing together governments, multilateral institutions, academia, civil society, and implementation partners to advance maternal and newborn survival and the prevention of stillbirths.
Representing #WBFA, Katy Heinemann, Director of Global Partnerships & Grants, participated in high-level dialogues and technical sessions while engaging with our partners, including @LSTMNews, @NEST360org, @FerringPharmaceuticals, @MaternityFoundation, @Philips, @GEHealthCare, @EveryPregnancy, and @SafaricomPLC_, as well as the @GatesFoundation, among others, ensuring that partnership-driven solutions remained closely aligned with delivery.
As progress towards reducing maternal and newborn mortality has slowed in several regions, this convening marked a critical moment for disciplined realignment centred on accountability, quality of care, and country leadership. Discussions reinforced that strengthening midwifery education, advancing quality of care, and institutionalising Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response Systems are essential to delivering consistent outcomes for women and newborns, and to informing stronger practice, policy, and prevention.
In parallel, we advanced purposeful bilateral engagement, including strategic discussions with Philips on innovations such as the #SmartSweep AI Ultrasound Project, alongside continued coordination with the Maternity Foundation, with a shared focus on scaling practical, evidence-based interventions. It was also a pleasure to connect with Dr Sanjana Bhardwaj, Deputy Director, Program Advocacy and Communications at the Gates Foundation, to discuss our continued work at the @WorldEconomicForum Global Alliance for Women’s Health.
As the conference concludes, the task before us is clear, to carry evidence into implementation, strengthen accountability across the continuum of care, and sustain the partnerships and investments required to ensure that every woman and every newborn survives and thrives.
#IMNHC2026
#WellbeingForAll
#FrontlineFriday
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We are deeply grateful for the thoughtful condolence visit and kind expressions of sympathy from the leadership and team of SLB (Schlumberger), led by Jean-Marc Kloss, Managing Director, Nigeria & West Africa, Victor Onyechi MD, MI Drilling Fluids, and Segun Kumoluyi Esq, Legal Counsel for SLB Nigeria.
My late father, HRH Otunba Adekunle Ojora, served with distinction as Chairman of SLB, and it is profoundly meaningful to witness the enduring respect for his legacy of leadership, integrity, and service.
Our reflections during the visit reaffirmed a shared commitment to sustainability, responsible stewardship, and strong ESG principles, values that continue to guide my engagements across global platforms, including my role as a member of the @BayerOfficial Sustainability Council, the @SustainableMarketsInitiative, and its Terra Carta guiding mandate.
It is encouraging to see commitments to energy innovation for a balanced planet reflected in SLB’s 2025 Sustainability Impact Report and its goals towards a carbon-neutral future.
I thank SLB for honouring my father`s memory in such a dignified and forward-looking manner, as we quoted The Otunba`s words, "thank you and thank you very much indeed!"
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I remain deeply grateful for the honour of the condolence visit and prayers offered by Their Royal Majesties, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, Abisogun II, The Oniru of Iru Land, and Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, Kusenla III, The Elegushi of Ikate-Elegushi Kingdom, together with their esteemed cabinets of chiefs.
I further acknowledge, with sincere appreciation, the presence and steadfast support of their royal staffs of office and Oloyes throughout the recently concluded funeral obsequies of our beloved patriarch and Olori-Ebi, HRH The Otunba Adekunle Ojora.
In this season of remembrance, such solidarity, tradition, and royal grace have brought great comfort to our family.
Ní Àdúrà Yorùbá: Kí Ọlọ́run fún un yín ní ìlera pípẹ́, ayé gígùn, àti ìjọba aláyọ̀, aláfiyà. Kí ìtẹ́ yín má bàjẹ́, kí àṣẹ yín lè máa tàn kálẹ̀ fún ìdàgbàsókè ilẹ̀ yín àti gbogbo ọmọ orílẹ̀-èdè. Kí ìjọba yín jẹ́ ìbùkún fún gbogbo wa. Àṣẹ.
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On World TB Day, this year’s theme, Yes! We can End TB! Led by countries. Powered by people, speaks to what is required of us now, decisive leadership and delivery that reaches every community.
Tuberculosis remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, with over 10 million people falling ill each year and more than 1.2 million lives lost to a preventable and curable disease.
In Nigeria, where the burden remains high, progress depends on strong primary healthcare systems and trusted frontline workers. Through the @WellbeingAfrica Foundation, my work has centred on supporting midwives and community health practitioners, strengthening health literacy, and enabling earlier care-seeking, all essential to reducing delayed diagnosis and improving treatment outcomes for TB.
Across global platforms, including my engagements with the @ConcordiaSummit and @StopTB, I continue to advocate for integrated approaches to ending tuberculosis, advancing innovation in case detection, and strengthening financing and partnerships that expand equitable access to care.
Ending TB is achievable. It requires sustained commitment, coordinated action, and systems built around people.
#EndTB
#WorldTBDay
#WellbeingForAll
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It was an honour and a privilege to rejoice with a very dearly beloved aunty, Her Royal Highness Yeye Olori Oladunni Sijuwade, in celebration of her 70th birthday at a Thanksgiving Service and Masked Ball Reception in Lagos on Sunday.
Born into the distinguished Sodipo family of Egbaland and later becoming a central figure within the revered House of Sijuwade, her life reflects a rare convergence of heritage and intellect. A London-trained lawyer and businesswoman, she has carried both lineage and learning with composure and clarity.
As wife of His Imperial Majesty, the 50th Ooni of Ife, she stood at the heart of one of the most historically significant royal institutions in Yoruba civilisation, embodying continuity, responsibility, and cultural stewardship.
I wish HRH Aunty Ladun continued good health and God’s abiding favour in the years ahead, and I pray that she, her children, grandchildren, friends and associates, the Sodipo family, and the entire Sijuwade Royal Family of the greatly revered Ooni of Ife of blessed memory continue to be upheld with joy and grace. Amen.
#YeyeOloriLadunSijuwadeAt70
#HappyBirthday
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Water is not merely infrastructure; it is the foundation of health, dignity, survival, and resilient systems.
Following World Water Day, I remain deeply committed to advancing the integration of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene across health care facilities, schools, and communities, as my @WellbeingAfrica Foundation recognises #WASH as a central pillar of maternal, newborn and child health, and of strengthened health systems.
Through our #WBFA programming, we have cumulatively reached more than 2 million women, children and families, including over 300,000 annually, across hundreds of health care facilities and more than 600 schools. We have trained over 5,000 frontline health workers in infection prevention and control, and supported tens of thousands of mothers and pregnant women through essential maternal health and hygiene interventions.
Yet, the unmet need remains profound.
Globally, one in four health care facilities still lacks basic water services, compromising safe childbirth, weakening infection prevention and control, and increasing the risk of preventable infections, including maternal sepsis. As highlighted by @BBCAfrica, citing @WaterAid research, mothers in sub-Saharan Africa are nearly 150 times more likely to die from sepsis than those in Western Europe and North America, with inadequate access to clean water and hygienic delivery environments remaining a critical driver of maternal mortality. Across Nigeria and comparable contexts, persistent gaps in reliable water and sanitation in facilities, schools, and communities continue to drive preventable disease, deepen inequities, and contribute to avoidable maternal and newborn mortality.
We continue to focus where the need is greatest, strengthening access to clean water, sanitation, and infection prevention in every delivery environment; supporting midwives and health workers to embed safe hygiene practices into every birth; and advancing hygiene education, behaviour change, and prevention systems across schools and communities.
Clean water saves lives.
Safe births build futures.
WASH is not optional; it is foundational.
#WorldWaterDay
#WASHForWellbeing
#MaternalMonday
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Today on #WorldHealthDay, I echo the @WHO global call for collective action, Together for Health, ...Stand with Science, grounded in urgency, equity and shared responsibility.
As a member of the @WHO Civil Society Commission and an accredited Non-State Actor with @WHO_Africa, the
Holy Week is a sacred journey of reflection, sacrifice, and hope.
Good Friday invites us to pause ...at the cross, remembering the depth of love and sacrifice that changed the course of humanity. In the solemnity of this day, we hold fast to faith, even in the shadow of sorrow.
Yesterday's Holy Wednesday marked the Burial Service of beloved late Mrs Oluwakemi Oyeteju James at... the Daystar Christian Centre, Lagos, a moment of sorrow, but also of profound gratitude for a life well lived and a God whose grace sustains even in our deepest grief.
May
The words of 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 resonated deeply as I joined the family of the beloved late ...Mrs Oluwakemi Oyeteju James yesterday, alongside her loved ones, at her Service of Songs held at the Daystar Christian Centre, Lagos.
Kemi, as she was affectionately known, was a
The introduction of my darling god-daughter Temitope and Maro brought together the Coker and Malaka... families in a meaningful expression of unity and shared intention. It reflected the importance of tradition as a foundation for partnership, grounding the union in respect and
As I attended the fragrance unveiling of Alethea K, An Intimate Expression of Elegance Crafted to ...Linger, I experienced a carefully composed expression of refinement, creativity, and enduring elegance. It reflected a thoughtful appreciation for craftsmanship and the power of
I had the pleasure of joining family and friends in celebrating our dear Chief Mrs Nike Makinde on ...her 70th birthday, in an evening that so beautifully reflected the life she has lived and the values she embodies.
Sister Nike’s undeniable beauty, grace, generosity, and strength
15 Macdonald Road,
Ikoyi, Lagos,
Nigeria
Toyin Saraki 2025. All Rights Reserved.
©️ Her Excellency Toyin Saraki Global Office & Philanthropy
The e-health check tool is available for free at https://covid19.wbfafrica.org/ and users can access real-time updates on how to stay connected, safe, and healthy during the pandemic on Instagram and Twitter @Wellbeing_PPMD, and @WellbeingPPMD on Facebook.
