By Stella Okoh-Esene
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), after its meeting held on 16th August 2025, deliberated extensively on issues relating to the Association and the Nation. At the end of the meeting, the following resolutions were reached.
STATE OF THE ASSOCIATION
1. The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) commended the Aisha Ibrahim-led National Executive for successfully securing and paying for land allocated during President Ladi Bala’s era, marking the continuation of a long-cherished dream to construct a National Secretariat. The association called on members and stakeholders to rally support for the construction of a befitting structure, heralding this milestone as a significant step towards establishing a permanent national presence.
2. INCLUSIVE LEADERSHIP
The national president was commended for promoting inclusiveness by ensuring that NAWOJIANS are actively engaged in the affairs of the Association.
3. PRUDENT MANAGEMENT OF RESOURCES
The Executive Committee was also commended for the judicious use of limited resources to promote the welfare, growth, and professional development of members across the country.
STATE OF THE NATION
1. SECURITY CONCERNS IN THE FCT:
The meeting noted with concern the rising insecurity within the Federal Capital Territory, particularly incidents of “one chance,” kidnapping, 419 scams, and other criminal activities. NAWOJ calls on the FCT Administration to strengthen collaboration with security agencies to curb these threats.
2. DRUG ABUSE:
The meeting expressed deep concern over the rising cases of drug abuse among youths, which has led to disturbing behaviours in public spaces. The Association calls on relevant authorities to intensify awareness campaigns and enforcement to address this menace.
3. SECURITY AWARENESS:
Women were urged to be more security conscious, avoid late-night movements, and pay attention to red flags in their environment. The Association equally called on government and security agencies to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and ensure that perpetrators of crimes are brought to justice as deterrents to others.
4. APPEAL TO RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS:
NAWOJ urged religious institutions to intensify moral teachings, incorporating values that instill the fear of God and condemn unwholesome acts, particularly those driven by greed, which contribute to the rising crime rate. By emphasizing moral rectitude in their preachings, religious bodies can help mitigate social vices and foster a more virtuous society.
CONCLUSION
In Conclusion the chairperson, NAWOJ FCT Bassey Ita Ikpang reaffirmed NAWOJ FCT ‘S commitment to promoting the welfare of members , amplify the voices of women, and Uphold the rights of children in line with the mandate of the Association .
Communique drafting committee.
1) Jennifer Okereke
2) Muplang Dakok
3)Bernard Vivian
Bassey Ita Ikpang
Chairperson
Nkiruka Okeke
Secretary