Nigeria has lost a broadcasting icon as Chief Anike Agbaje-Williams, Africa’s first female television broadcaster, has passed away at the age of 88.

Her family announced her passing in a statement signed by Mrs. Banji Sokoya, revealing that the veteran broadcaster died peacefully in Ibadan, where she lived most of her life.

“Goodnight, my ever so cherished mummy, boss, and mentor. We’ll surely see in the morning,” the statement read.

Born on October 23, 1936, Agbaje-Williams made history as the first face to appear on television in Africa when she featured on Western Nigerian Television (WNTV) in Ibadan during its test transmission and official launch on October 31, 1959. She was also the first voice heard on Africa’s first commercial radio station, Western Nigeria Broadcasting Service (WNBS), earning her the title of “Double-First.”

She had a distinguished career in broadcasting, rising through the ranks to become a respected producer and director of programmes before retiring in July 1986.

A devoted member of All Saints Church, Jericho, Ibadan, she was also one of its oldest choristers. Her family described her as a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose legacy will be cherished forever.

“The family profoundly mourns the passing of a great icon. We take comfort in knowing she lived a glorious, remarkable, and impactful life. She inspired many fans and mentees over the years,” the statement read.

The family has requested privacy during this period of mourning, with funeral arrangements to be announced later.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has urged healthcare workers to strictly adhere to Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures when handling Mpox cases to prevent further spread.

Dr Jide Idris, Director-General of NCDC, emphasised the importance of frontline workers prioritising their own safety while providing care for patients in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.

“Protect yourself while caring for Mpox patients. Your safety is just as important as your patients’,” he stated.

Mpox, a viral disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, spreads primarily through close contact with infected individuals, contaminated materials, and respiratory droplets.

Symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, body aches, and a rash that progresses to painful lesions.

Idris also urged hospitals and clinics to reinforce IPC measures to protect both healthcare workers and patients.

He outlined several key safety precautions for healthcare workers, including: wearing gloves, masks, face shields, and gowns while handling patients.

“Regularly wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based sanitisers.

“Avoid direct contact with bodily fluids and use barrier nursing techniques.

“Properly disinfect hospital surfaces and equipment to prevent contamination.

“Identify suspected cases early and ensure proper isolation to curb further transmission,” he said.

Idris assured Nigerians that the NCDC was monitoring the Mpox situation and remained committed to providing regular updates and technical support to health facilities.

He urged healthcare workers to stay vigilant, report suspected cases promptly, and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of Mpox.

He also called on the general public to stay informed, avoid close contact with infected individuals, and practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of infection.

As part of its ongoing response, he said that the NCDC had been working with state health authorities, training healthcare workers, and strengthening laboratory capacity for Mpox diagnosis.

Idris reiterated that preventing the spread of Mpox required collective effort from both healthcare workers and the public, encouraging Nigerians to remain cautious, follow public health guidelines, and support efforts to contain the virus.

He advised healthcare workers and the public to visit the NCDC’s official website or follow its verified social media handles for more information and updates.

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, has launched a strategic partnership with traditional leaders to amplify the voices, protect the rights, and promote empowerment initiatives for rural women in FCT communities.

Ms. Queen Kunde, Chairperson of the NAWOJ FCT Media Team, made the announcement in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, following a courtesy visit led by Mrs Bassey Ita-Ikpang, Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT.

The visit was made to the wife of the Abaji/President of the Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers Association.

Bassey stated that the partnership was part of the preparations for the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration.

The event, globally observed on March 8, honours the achievements and challenges faced by women and calls for action.

She explained that the initiative aimed to promote the rights and interests of rural women, who often face unique challenges such as limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

Speaking on the theme for the 2025 celebration, “Accelerating Action for Gender Equality: The Voice of Rural Women,” the chairperson emphasised the need for deliberate and strategic actions.

She called for the inclusion of rural women in the fight for gender equality, economic empowerment, and social justice.

“We recognise your unwavering commitment to women’s development and the welfare of our communities.

“As mothers, leaders, and role models, you have continuously inspired women, especially in rural areas, to embrace self-reliance and strive for a better future,” Bassey said.”

Through the collaboration, Bassey stated, both parties would create platforms for rural women to share their stories, concerns, and aspirations.

“This will help raise awareness about the issues affecting rural women and mobilise support for their empowerment.”

Responding, Hajiya Hauwa Ibrahim, Wife of the Ona of Abaji and President of the Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers Association, pledged support for the initiative.

She expressed recognition for the crucial role of empowering rural women in promoting sustainable community development.

Ibrahim also expressed concern over the rising cases of gender-based violence in palace jurisdictions, stating: “At the palace, we handle numerous cases of gender-based violence.”

She assured their full support, saying, “We are delighted to collaborate with NAWOJ FCT because our vision aligns with ensuring a better life for women and children.

“The 17 chiefs of the FCT are fully on board and ready to support this initiative—do not hesitate to call on us whenever needed.”

Ibrahim further recalled that the Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers Association was established in 2019.

She said the establishment was in response to the advice of former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, who recognised the need for a unified platform to enhance the impact of the wives of traditional rulers.