By Uloma Peace Okorie
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, has sealed a strategic partnership with the Tallafi Women and Youth Foundation and honoured its President, Dr. Mairo Tanko Al-Makura, as Matron of the association.
The development unfolded during a courtesy visit by the NAWOJ FCT leadership, led by its Chairperson, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, who described Dr. Al-Makura as a compassionate and dedicated humanitarian committed to improving the lives of women and vulnerable groups.
Ita Ikpang said the association, which has over 350 practicing female journalists in the FCT, remains focused on promoting ethical journalism, gender equality, and advocacy on health and social issues affecting women and children.
She commended the Tallafi Foundation’s interventions in empowering widows, supporting small-scale businesses, and providing relief to disadvantaged communities, noting that the partnership would further strengthen efforts to uplift women and girls.
According to her, NAWOJ will leverage its media platforms to amplify the foundation’s activities and expand its outreach across the territory.
She also highlighted plans for the association’s upcoming Marketplace Advocacy Event to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day, aimed at engaging grassroots women on health, economic empowerment, and social protection, while seeking support to ensure its success.
The Chairperson further outlined ongoing NAWOJ initiatives, including capacity-building programmes in collaboration with the German Embassy and free cancer screening for members in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health at the Federal Medical Centre.
Responding, Dr. Al-Makura expressed gratitude for the honour and pledged her support for NAWOJ’s programmes, reaffirming her commitment to women’s empowerment and national development.
She noted that despite being out of public office, she continues to champion initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic support for women and young people.
Dr. Al-Makura stressed the need for unity and mentorship among women, urging them to support one another and create opportunities rather than compete.
“If we are not given a seat at the table, we should build our own and invite others. We are not competing; we are partners in progress,” she said.
She also encouraged experienced women to mentor younger ones, emphasizing that collective growth is key to sustainable development.
The visit marks a significant step toward strengthening collaboration and advancing advocacy efforts for women’s empowerment in the FCT and beyond.