By Queen Kunde
The Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Chapter has called for gender equality and better life for female Journalists.
The call was made on Monday, when the Chairperson FCT NAWOJ, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang led the Association’s executives to a strategic partnership meeting with Dr Jumai Ahmadu, Director Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, FCTA, Abuja FCT.
While thanking Dr. Ahmadu for her earlier support for the FCT NAWOJ, women and girls in FCT, as well as vulnerable people, and widows, Ikpang advocated for strategic partnership that will address gender equality and empowerment.
“In a world where progress is often measured by economic growth and technological advancement, it is imperative that we also measure our success by the strides we make in advancing gender equity.
“Gender equality is not merely women’s issue; it is a human rights issue, a social justice issue, and an economic imperative. It touches every facet of our lives, influencing the health of our societies, the well-being of our communities and the strength of our economies.
“NAWOJ FCT has long been at the forefront of advocating for the rights, well-being and empowerment of women in Nigeria.
“The present exco in FCT is even ready and determined to do more in uplifting the lives of the vulnerable in the FCT especially women and girls even at the remotest part of the communities to amplify the policies and programmes of government and its various sub units in FCT.
“Just last Friday we were in Wumba Village in the FCT for our Breastfeeding Programme which did not only address exclusive breastfeeding but other health challenges that affects women and girls”.
She said FCT NAWOJ believed that once it gets it right at the community level, half of the challenges are solved, knowing that ‘if you train a woman you train the world’.
She gave the mission of women journalists’ visit as amplifying the voices of women and women leaders to ensure that their stories are told, and to champion the cause of gender equality in every sphere of life.
“Yet, we recognize that we cannot achieve this alone. It is only through strategic partnerships with organizations such as yours, committed to the same ideals, that we can make meaningful progress.
“Today, we are not just meeting to discuss collaboration; we are coming together to align our visions, to combine our resources, and to leverage our strengths in a united front against gender discrimination, violence, and inequality. Our goal is to create an environment where every woman and girl can live free from fear, free from want, and with the opportunity to achieve her full potential.
“We however cannot do all these if we on our part, are in want. It is for this reason that I implore you to support us to assist our women mostly those in the private media as many of them are not on any salary scale”.
“This partnership is critical as we face ongoing challenges—whether it is in addressing the gender pay gap, combating gender-based violence, promoting women’s leadership, or challenging harmful cultural norms. By working together, we can drive the change that our society so desperately needs.
“We can develop comprehensive strategies that not only address the symptoms of gender inequality but also tackle its root causes.
“I foresee a partnership where we share knowledge, support one another in advocacy and outreach, and co-create programmes that empower women economically, socially, and politically. Together, we can craft policies that protect the rights of women and ensure they are not just at decision making table but that their voices are heard in decision-making processes at all levels.
“I am confident that with our collective expertise, passion, and commitment, we can pave the way for a more equitable and just society. A society where gender does not determine one’s opportunities, and where every individual, regardless of gender, can thrive and contribute to the development of our nation.
“As we have already begun this journey together, let us be mindful of the enormous impact our joint forces can bring and remain steadfast in our commitment to gender equality, knowing that our efforts today will shape the future for generations to come”, she said.
The FCT NAWOJ Chairperson appealed that FCT NAWOJ should be remembered wherever and whenever it matters, and to carry them along in all projects and programmes.
She also appealed for some slots at the Zambia 2024 African women conference, noting that aside participating, NAWOJIANS would also report on the conference at the various media houses.
“I really want to thank you once again for this opportunity and your willingness to collaborate with us. We do not take your support for granted.
“Looking forward to the transformation our work together can accomplish”, she said.
In her response, Dr. Ahmadu promised her unalloyed support for the Association.
She advised FCT Nawojians to take its advocacy to the Traditional Rulers’ Wives Association, as she said they have 17 chiefdoms, adding that whatever done by the FCT NAWOJ, they can carry it down to the grassroots.
Continuing, she said: “We are building a profile to see how we can get funds from donor agencies to enable us to work with like-minded organizations. And ones that NAWOJ will originally be our first point of call, like you said, when we work together, we amplify our work. We’ve done it with NOW before; I will continue to do it whenever resources are available, that I can assure you.
“Like I said, support for NAWOJ is non-negotiable; we will put everything together to ensure that your tenure is very, very successful and impactful”, she promised.