Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, the President of the Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), has cheerfully lifted the curtain on life at home with her husband, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr. Bashit Adewale Adeniyi—confessing that despite his big uniform and title, he still rolls up his sleeves to help with house chores.
Speaking at a COWA women’s empowerment programme in Apapa, Lagos, last week, Mrs. Adeniyi said her husband irons and washes his own clothes, including socks and undergarments.
“He does all those things himself. I don’t need to do it. He’s so used to it that even if I help him, he will still do it himself,” she said.
She used the anecdote to highlight the values of humility, self-reliance, and shared responsibility within families. She urged women not to neglect themselves while caring for their children and spouses. “Many women are overwhelmed with home and children. You must look after yourself too—smell good, look nice, pursue your career if you want to, and take time for yourself,” she advised.
The COWA President also spoke about the association’s flagship initiative, Healthy Wife, Wealthy Life, which combines health education with economic empowerment.
According to her, the programme equips women with the skills and knowledge to manage households effectively while pursuing personal and professional goals.
Mrs. Adeniyi stressed that women’s well-being is central to family stability. “Even if your children need attention, you still need to care for yourself. You are the domestic engineer of your home; your health and well-being are key to a strong family,” she said.
The programme, which was attended by women from various Customs formations, focused on personal development, health awareness, and empowerment, reinforcing COWA’s commitment to improving lives both at home and in the wider community.
