Wrapped in Ankara: How Jos Women’s Hangout is building community, confidence

The city of Jos recently came alive in a splash of colour, rhythm and shared sisterhood as hundreds of women gathered for the annual Jos Women’s Hangout, a vibrant event organised to commemorate International Women’s Day, celebrating womanhood, culture and connection in a unique and refreshing way.

Held at the Mees Palace Event Centre and themed, ‘Wrapped in Ankara’, the event drew participants from across Plateau State, creating a lively atmosphere filled with laughter, music, and meaningful interactions.

In this report, HENRIETTA GONZUK & LYDIA ALI capture not only the excitement and colour of the event, but also its deeper significance as a platform for relaxation, self-expression, emotional support and empowerment for women navigating the pressures of daily life

The Annual Jos Women’s Hangout, organised to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD), brought together women from across Plateau State at Mees Palace Event Centre, Rayfield, Jos, in a vibrant and colorful celebration of culture under the theme, ‘Wrapped in Ankara’.

The event attracted a large crowd, with women filling the venue to capacity, many dressed in colourful Ankara fabrics in line with the theme of promoting culture and supporting local enterprise. Designed as a space to unwind, the hangout featured karaoke performances, eating competitions, dance sessions, games, fashion showcases and interactive segments that kept attendees engaged throughout the day.

Despite the rain, women trooped in with food and snacks, ready to share freely with other attendees.

“This is the only place I feel single again… my children are at home and I’m free from responsibilities for a day,” said an attendee who preferred to be identified simply as Mrs Zee, capturing the essence of the gathering.

Another participant, Mrs Ade, described the event as “fun, fun, fun,” while a returning guest, Mrs Shitnaan, noted that previous editions had always been enjoyable and this year was no exception.

A safe space for relaxation, expression

Beyond the entertainment, attendees emphasised the importance of the hangout as a safe space for emotional relief and self-expression.

Some highlighted challenges such as marital stress and personal struggles, noting that gatherings like this provide an avenue to “have peace of mind,” stressing that “a problem shared is half solved.”

First-time participants said they felt welcomed and saw the platform as an opportunity to share experiences.

Participants also drew attention to broader societal issues affecting women in Jos, including limited exposure and self-expression due to cultural and religious constraints.

According to one attendee, Mrs Joy Shola, “Women are always at home with the children or at work, with little time to express themselves,” adding that such events allow them to “take fresh air, meet people, and even build connections.”

Health awareness, engaging activities

Unlike previous editions, this year’s programme featured a health talk delivered by a medical team, where four professionals addressed women on body changes from puberty through to menopause, with particular emphasis on the menopause stage.

The session included an interactive question-and-answer segment, allowing participants to seek clarity on personal health concerns.

Following the talk, the event transitioned into entertainment activities, including dance sessions and competitions where winners emerged and were duly rewarded. Sponsors also distributed free food items, including cornflakes, to participants.

This year’s edition was widely regarded as an improvement on previous ones, with many citing better organisation, increased publicity and a more diverse programme beyond dancing.

The Ankara-themed dress code was particularly praised for being inclusive and economically beneficial.

“Wear ankara and grow the economy,” an attendee noted, adding that the turnout was “massive” compared to past editions.

Economic impact, community engagement

Vendors at the event reported gains in visibility and customer engagement.

One vendor said the platform had brought her new customers and exposure, even from those who did not make immediate purchases. “It has been rewarding. People are seeing my products and I’ve made new contacts,” she said.

Food vendors also recorded encouraging patronage despite the weather disruptions, which affected tents and slowed activity at intervals.

With tickets priced as low as ₦3,500, the event remained accessible to many, further boosting participation. Activities such as eating competitions, question-and-answer sessions, and performances added to the excitement.

Participants expressed optimism that such initiatives would continue to grow and amplify women’s voices in society. Many believe that platforms like the Jos Women’s Hangout not only provide relaxation and networking opportunities but also contribute to long-term empowerment, as one attendee aptly put it: “In the next five to seven years, women will be heard everywhere.”

Vision, evolution of Jos Women’s Hangout

In an interview with THE NIGERIA STANDARD, the convener, Kefe Ijama, popularly known as Uncle Kefe, he spoke extensively on the motive behind the event.

“The motive behind Jos Women’s Hangout is to create a safe and refreshing space where women can step away from the demands of their daily routines,” he said.

He explained that many women go through a continuous cycle of caring for their homes, children, businesses, and careers, often without taking time for themselves.

“Over time, this pattern can lead to stress, emotional burnout, and even mental health challenges, as many women tend to lose themselves while trying to meet everyone else’s needs,” he added.

He pointed out that the initiative was created to change that narrative.

“It gives women the opportunity to pause, reconnect with themselves, and experience joy again. It is a space where they can relax, laugh, play games, sing, shout, have meaningful conversations, build business connections, and learn more about their health and personal growth,” he said.

He noted that activities such as neighbourhood dance competitions, amala eating competitions, singing contests, and games are carefully designed to ensure that participants leave fulfilled.

“Most importantly, it allows women to feel seen, heard, and alive again,” he stressed.

Kefe further explained that the initiative began in 2017 and has grown steadily over the years.

“At the beginning, it was not easy. The idea was new, turnout was poor, and even brands did not immediately see the vision or value,” he recalled.

Undeterred, the organisers pressed on, and over time the hangout evolved into a movement, attracting more participants and inspiring similar gatherings in Jos.

“Today, the growth has been remarkable. We have hosted events with a large number of women, creating a strong platform for connection and engagement,” he said.

He maintained that the true success of the hangout lies in the transformation experienced by participants.

“Many leave feeling refreshed, happier, and more confident. Some say it helped them relax in ways they had not experienced in years,” he added.

Theme, identity, challenges, the man behind the vision

Speaking on this year’s theme, ‘Wrapped in Ankara’, Kefe said it reflects individuality and cultural identity.

“Just as no two faces are the same, no two stories are the same. Ankara, with its rich colours and patterns, represents that uniqueness,” he explained.

He added that the theme also emphasised inclusivity, bringing together women from different backgrounds without distinction between regular and VIP participants.

“The reception was incredible. Women embraced the theme and showed up in stunning outfits. It became more than a dress code—it was a celebration of identity, culture, and unity,” he said.

Despite the successes, he acknowledged challenges such as funding, public misconceptions, and the need for larger venues due to increasing attendance.

“Some people think it is just a party, but it is a purposeful space for relaxation, expression, and connection,” he clarified.

He also noted that efforts are underway to incorporate health and wellness sessions and to expand the initiative.

“We are hopeful of taking the hangout to Abuja, Kaduna, and beyond,” he said.

Providing insight into his personal journey, Kefe introduced himself:

“My name is Kefe Ijama, but everyone calls me Uncle Kefe. I am an MC and event planner. I started by organising children’s parties and funfairs, where both children and parents enjoyed games and activities,” he said.

He explained that his experience working with families helped him connect with women in a unique way.

“I have been part of many children’s lives in Jos and its environs, and some of them are now in university. They cannot talk about their childhood without mentioning my name,” he said.

He added that many people are surprised that a man organises one of the largest women-focused events on the Plateau.

“It is my dream to create balance in the home through this event—from children to mothers,” he said.

Despite the challenges, he expressed optimism about the future.

“Each obstacle has strengthened our commitment, and we believe Jos Women’s Hangout will continue to grow into something even greater,” he concluded.