By Queen Kunde
In a resounding call for action, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) FCT Chapter, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, has urged the media, civil society organizations, and policymakers to collaborate in amplifying the voices of women peace builders. She emphasized that breaking barriers to women’s participation in security and peace processes is crucial for achieving national stability.
Speaking at the just-concluded 5th Annual Forum on “Enhancing Implementation: The Role of the Security Sector in Nigeria’s 3rd National Action Plan (NAP) on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS),” organized by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, UN Women, and the Government of Germany, Ikpang underscored the role of the media in shaping public perception and driving meaningful policy reforms.
“The media plays a crucial role in promoting peace and security by influencing public opinion, holding leaders accountable, and providing a platform for marginalized voices. Just as we have consistently amplified the appeals of Indigenous people in the FCT, we assure the public that more will be done moving forward,” Ikpang stated.
She highlighted the systemic barriers women face in contributing to security frameworks, despite Nigeria being a signatory to the UN Security Council’s landmark Resolution 1325, which recognizes the indispensable role of women in peace and security. More than two decades since its adoption, women in Nigeria still struggle with underrepresentation in security-related decision-making.
Ikpang further stressed that responsible and proactive media engagement is essential in preventing conflicts, promoting dialogue, and fostering reconciliation. “By providing accurate, timely, and balanced reporting, the media helps reduce panic, encourage informed decision-making, and promote good governance. Media should amplify the voices of peace, counter divisive narratives, and create an inclusive security landscape.”
As security challenges persist in and around Abuja, she called for greater investment in women’s leadership development within the security sector and reaffirmed NAWOJ FCT Chapter’s commitment to using media platforms to advance peace and stability.
“The power of the media lies in its ability to highlight root causes of conflicts, expose human rights violations, and give a voice to marginalized communities. This is the role NAWOJ FCT Chapter has been known for and will continue to uphold under my leadership,” she affirmed.
The conference, which gathered key stakeholders from various sectors, emphasized the need for gender-sensitive security strategies, policy reforms, and sustainable approaches to peace building. As Nigeria navigates complex security challenges, Ikpang’s call serves as a reminder that an inclusive approach, driven by responsible media engagement, remains a critical pathway to lasting peace and development.