By Uloma Peace Okorie
In a strategic move to deepen inclusive economic empowerment and promote Nigeria’s vast industrial raw materials potential, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, is set to partner with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC).
The partnership will be formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening collaboration in research, innovation, and inclusive economic participation, particularly in creating sustainable opportunities for women in alignment with the mandates and core values of both organisations.
The initiative is also expected to support RMRDC’s drive towards fulfilling its mandate, as the Council prepares to host the maiden 2026 African Raw Materials Summit scheduled for June.
This development was disclosed during a courtesy visit by NAWOJ FCT to the Director-General of RMRDC, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Speaking during the visit, the Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, reaffirmed the association’s unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights of women and children, while underscoring the critical role of the media in driving national development and social transformation.
She noted that NAWOJ FCT comprises about 350 practising female journalists across print, electronic, and new media platforms within the Federal Capital Territory, and remains dedicated to promoting professionalism, visibility, and impactful advocacy.
Highlighting recent activities, Ikpang disclosed that, as part of programmes marking this year’s International Women’s Day, the association organised a capacity-building initiative in collaboration with the German Embassy.
She further unveiled plans for a grassroots outreach programme scheduled for April 30, tagged “Marketplace Advocacy,” designed to take awareness campaigns directly to women at the grassroots.
According to her, the initiative will focus on health, education, and democratic participation, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
It will also simplify government policies, encourage active female participation in the electoral process, and promote awareness of women’s health needs.
The NAWOJ Chairperson commended Prof. Ike-Muonso for his impactful leadership since assuming office, especially his commitment to strengthening local raw materials development and promoting value addition, efforts she noted are crucial to Nigeria’s industrial growth and reduction of import dependence.
“It is in this regard that we see this visit as a mutually beneficial engagement.
As media professionals, we are well positioned to amplify the initiatives and impact of your Council, ensuring that your programmes receive the visibility they deserve,” she stated.
Ikpang also announced the appointment of Prof. Ike-Muonso as Patron of NAWOJ FCT, citing his leadership, experience, and dedication to inclusive development.
She expressed confidence that his guidance would further strengthen the association and enhance the success of its programmes.
In his response, the Director-General of RMRDC, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, commended NAWOJ for its sustained advocacy efforts and reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to advancing industrial growth, promoting local resource utilisation, and fostering innovation for sustainable development.
He expressed optimism that the proposed MoU would significantly enhance raw materials development and value addition in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.
Prof. Ike-Muonso also pledged the Council’s full support towards the effective implementation of the partnership, as well as the success of NAWOJ’s forthcoming Marketplace Advocacy initiative.
A major highlight of the visit was the decoration of the Director-General as Patron of NAWOJ FCT, in recognition of his exemplary leadership and commitment to inclusive development.