Nigerian women have been encouraged not to allow femininity to limit their potential, as God has endowed them with the ability and strength to succeed in every sphere of life.
The charge was given by Mrs. Oluwakemi Ayodele during the official launch of “A Pink Afternoon (Chronicles of Love)”, a new book authored by Dr. Feyikemi Oyaleke, held in Lagos, South-West Nigeria.
Mrs. Ayodele urged women to believe in themselves and recognise that they possess all it takes to overcome challenges and achieve success, noting that determination and confidence remain vital tools for progress.
Also speaking at the event, Barrister Jide Ologun, Vice President of Top Foundation, described women as a divine source of happiness who should be treated with love, respect, and care.
He stressed that the world would be incomplete without the nurturing presence and invaluable contributions of women in building a better society.
Vice President of Top Foundation, Barrister Jide Ologun explained that the colour pink, as reflected in the book title, symbolises love, femininity, and compassion.
He praised women for their wisdom, organisation, and mindfulness, urging society to create more opportunities for them to explore and express their potential.
Ologun also encouraged women to pursue financial independence, emphasising that femininity represents strength, not weakness.
Author’s Inspiration:
Author of “A Pink Afternoon (Chronicles of Love)”, Dr. Feyikemi Oyaleke, has revealed that her personal experiences as a teenager inspired the writing of the book.
She explained that her parents’ has troubled marriage and eventual separation shaped her perspective on resilience, strength, and hope.
According to her, “My mother endured so much but chose to stay strong. After their separation, she singlehandedly raised me and my siblings. That experience inspired me to write this book to help women and families going through pain realise that their struggles won’t last forever.”
The 102-page novel highlights the resilience and emotional strength of African women across generations.
Book Review and Themes
Reviewing the book, Dr. Oluwakemi Akintoyese described it as “an emotional, insightful, and culturally grounded masterpiece” that transcends a typical love story.
She noted that the novel explores themes of courage, heartbreak, and identity across generations, portraying the evolving face of African womanhood through the lives of two characters — Mojisola and her daughter, Abeni.
Set between rural Ayetoro in Ogun State and modern Lagos, the book is divided into three thematic parts — The Silent Struggles, The Emotional Earthquake, and The Healing Begins — each reflecting different stages of endurance, pain, and recovery.
Through her storytelling, Dr. Feyikemi Oyaleke portrays love as a force that upholds freedom, dignity, and self-respect while promoting compassion and cultural renewal.
Her husband, Dr. Gbenga David Oyaleke, also an author, commended her dedication to literature and expressed delight at witnessing the realization of her creative dream.
He noted that his full support for her writing journey has been driven by her passion for inspiring others through purposeful storytelling.
He also spoke briefly about his new book, Rising Beyond Limits which was reviewed by prof Oluwayomi Oladunjoye, and another title, Attitude, emphasizing the importance of good character.
“You may have talent and wealth, but without the right attitude, you have missed everything. Attitude fuels success,” he noted.
Dr. Oyaleke further called for reforms in Nigeria’s educational system, urging the government to address corruption and update the already released curriculum saying it has some lapses.
He encouraged young people to cultivate a reading culture to unlock their potential.
Guests Commend the Author:
Other guests at the event, including Yinka Kenny and Funke-Treasure Anikeade, commended the author and her husband for their inspiring partnership and literary excellence.
“The event was colorful — just like the pink theme. I encourage everyone to get all three books launched today,” said Yinka Kenny.
“The books — A Pink Afternoon, Attitude, and Pinkspire Magazine — are inspiring and educational. I love that this couple channels their love into creativity and impact,” Funke-Treasure added.
The event, which brought together eminent personalities from all walks of life, concluded with a resounding message:
Women should embrace strength, self-worth, and independence, while society must continue to honor their invaluable role in shaping a better world.
Highlights of the event included testimonial reflections, a signature appendix for a young writer, Iremide Oluyide, unveiling ceremonies, award presentations, and lectures.
Olusola Akintonde