By Queen Kunde
In a bold push for gender equality, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, has joined forces with traditional rulers to champion the rights of rural women ahead of the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration.
The groundbreaking partnership, sealed on Monday, aims to dismantle barriers limiting rural women’s access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
NAWOJ FCT Chairperson, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, emphasized the urgency of the initiative, aligning with this year’s theme, “Accelerating Action for Gender Equality: The Voice of Rural Women.”
“We recognize the power of traditional rulers in shaping communities. This partnership will provide rural women with platforms to share their stories, advocate for their rights, and drive meaningful change,” she stated.
The Wife of the Ona of Abaji and President of the Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers Association, HRM Hajiya Hauwa Ibrahim, reinforced the commitment of traditional leaders, decrying the high incidence of gender-based violence in rural areas.
“Even in the palace, we receive countless cases of gender-based violence—many remain unreported. This collaboration is both timely and necessary,” she said, pledging the support of all 17 FCT chiefs.
With this landmark coalition, NAWOJ FCT and traditional rulers are set to amplify rural women’s voices, challenge societal norms, and spark lasting change across FCT communities.