By Chioma James
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D, has raised alarm over the escalating insecurity in the North Central region, particularly the rising cases of kidnapping in Niger State, where victims remain in captivity.
In a communiqué issued at the end of its first zonal meeting of 2026, held on January 22, the association, comprising members from Benue, Nasarawa, Niger, Kogi, Kwara, Plateau, and the FCT, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the zone.
Presided over by the Vice President of Zone D, Chizoba Ogbeche, the meeting brought together zonal officers, state chairpersons, and secretaries to deliberate on pressing issues affecting the association and the nation.
The women journalists decried the high rate of insecurity in the North Central geopolitical zone, with particular emphasis on the escalating cases of kidnapping, especially in Niger State.
They called on the Niger State Government and relevant security agencies to intensify efforts towards the speedy rescue of all kidnapped victims and ensure their safe return to their families.
NAWOJ Zone D further urged the government to implement proactive and sustainable security measures aimed at preventing future incidents of kidnapping and other violent crimes in the region.
On the forthcoming Area Council election in the FCT, the association called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a free, fair, and credible election.
They stressed the need for INEC to provide a level playing field for all political parties and their candidates to strengthen public confidence in the electoral process and curb voter apathy.
NAWOJ Zone D also urged residents of the FCT to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to enable them to participate fully in the democratic process by voting for candidates of their choice.
While commending the efforts of security agencies in the FCT, the association tasked the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and other security agencies to intensify actions against the menace of “one-chance” robbers in the territory and its environs.
Furthermore, NAWOJ Zone D commended the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, for the ongoing infrastructural development across the FCT.
However, they urged him to pay attention to the upgrade of public healthcare facilities, with specific reference to the Karu and Utako General Hospitals, which have not been functional, to improve access to quality and affordable healthcare for residents.
The communiqué was signed by the Communique Drafting Committee, comprising Elizabeth Achagh, Chairperson, Benue Chapter; Stella Edoka, Chairperson, Kogi Chapter; and Mercy Tanze, Chairperson, Nasarawa Chapter.