Ambassador Jolly Abani Says 40 And Fabulous Naija Challenges Ageing Stereotypes, Promotes Confidence, Relevance And Visibility Of Women Over 40

Ambassador Jolly Abani Says 40 and Fabulous Naija Challenges Ageing Stereotypes, Promotes Confidence, Relevance and Visibility of Women Over 40 40 and Fabulous Naija, a reality TV show created to shift societal perceptions about ageing, is redefining what it means to be a woman over 40 in Nigeria, according to Ambassador Jolly Abani, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Mother of Models International. Abani explained that the show was conceived to challenge long‑standing stereotypes that marginalise women once they reach a certain age stereotypes that portray mature women as past their prime and irrelevant. Instead, 40 and Fabulous Naija showcases the strength, confidence, and continued relevance of women in their 40s and beyond. Platform for Mature Women Speaking ahead of the show’s Season 3 grand finale in Abuja, Abani said the reality series provides a platform where accomplished, resilient women over 40 can demonstrate their talents, skills and growth. “The reality show was conceived to counter such narratives by celebrating mature women who are accomplished, resilient, and eager to pursue new opportunities,” she said. This season featured 10 housemates all women in their 40s — who lived together for 60 days, showcasing a wide range of skills and personal development. Abani emphasised that the show brings into sharp focus how maturity combines wisdom, experience and vibrancy, which often go unrecognised in mainstream media. The overall winner of 40 and Fabulous Naija will receive a ₦10 million cash prize, a car, and additional rewards. The grand finale is scheduled for 18 April 2026 at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, and will feature performances by notable artists including Chella, Bracket, Bimbo Akintola, Empress Njamah, Shortcut, Notrace, Roy General, Veno and Oge Kimono. Abani stressed that the show’s broader purpose is to project women above 40 as active contributors to national development, rather than as individuals limited by age. By bringing together contestants from diverse professional and social backgrounds, the initiative highlights that life after 40 remains vibrant, purposeful and full of potential a message Abani summarised succinctly: “Life begins at 40. She lamented that women in their 40s have too often been sidelined or discouraged from pursuing new dreams, and said 40 and Fabulous Naija was created to “unlock their untapped potentials.”