NAWOJ advocates empowering women journalists through growth, action

Dr Adeola Ekine, Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos Chapter, has said that continuous learning drives growth in journalism.

Ekine stated this in Lagos on Thursday during the commemoration of International Women’s Day.

Supreme news reports that the IWD 2025 theme is ‘Accelerate Action’, while NAWOJ’s symposium topic was titled ‘Young Women in Journalism: Mentorship, Growth and Breaking the Glass Ceiling.’

According to Ekine, young women must embrace opportunities for self-improvement through training programmes, digital media literacy, investigative journalism, and ethical reporting.

She emphasised that as the media landscape evolves, journalists must stay ahead, ensuring their voices and narratives remain relevant, credible, and impactful.

Ekine added that breaking the glass ceiling requires audacity, resilience, and collective effort.

She urged women to pursue leadership positions, join editorial boards, and take decision-making roles in media organisations.

Mrs Abimbola Bello, Director of News at Lagos Television, questioned what actions women should accelerate under the IWD 2025’s theme.

Bello stated that women must accelerate action in various areas and across different initiatives.

She noted that the symposium encouraged women journalists to assess their roles, goals, and priorities.

She said this was a time for women to reflect not only on their jobs but also on nation-building and issues affecting women.

Ms Oluseyi Kadiri, Consultant at J.K.A. Aggey Foundation, said the foundation supports women, girls, and the less privileged.

Kadiri stated that the foundation partnered with NAWOJ to provide medical services for symposium participants.

“We are checking blood pressure (BP) and sugar levels because health is crucial.

“Women in journalism should know their BP and sugar levels to avoid being overworked without realising the risks,” she said.

Kadiri explained that the foundation aimed to prevent workplace medical emergencies caused by high BP.

She encouraged women journalists to celebrate their achievements and contributions to the media industry.

She advised women to check their BP at least twice a month.

Mrs Rashidat Sanni-Afolabi, Health Education Officer at LACA, Ikeja LGA, urged women journalists to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS.

Sanni-Afolabi said educating women on HIV/AIDS during pregnancy could help prevent mother-to-child transmission.

She noted that while people often dislike taking medication, proper sensitisation and education could improve adherence.

She called on women journalists to prioritise HIV/AIDS stories and increase awareness levels.