NAWOJ NEC Meeting in Imo Ends With Strong Resolutions on Insecurity, Women’s Rights, and Media Responsibility

By . Nkama Chioma

The serene atmosphere of the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre (EIICC) in Owerri came alive as women journalists from the 36 states of the federation and the FCT converged for the second National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ). The three-day gathering, held from November 21 to 23, 2025, transformed into a vibrant assembly of voices united in the pursuit of gender equity, media professionalism, and national progress.

Hosted by the Imo State Government, the meeting brought together National Officers, State Chairpersons, Secretaries, and Zonal Coordinators under the leadership of the National Chairperson, Comrade Aisha K. Bura. With the theme, “Amplifying Change: The Media, Legislation, and the Advancement of Women,” the conference created an avenue for reflection on the strategic role of women journalists in shaping policies and strengthening societal development.

The keynote lecture, delivered by Chinelo Emeghara, Esq., Clerk and Head of Service of the Imo State House of Assembly, resonated deeply with participants. She urged women journalists to intensify public awareness campaigns on gender-sensitive legislation, noting that laws only become meaningful when citizens understand and demand their proper implementation.

Declaring the meeting open, Governor Hope Uzodinma—represented by his Deputy, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru—commended journalists for their critical contributions to transparency, accountability, and nation-building. He encouraged NAWOJ members to remain at the forefront of amplifying women’s rights, promoting social justice, and pushing for inclusiveness in leadership.

The event also featured goodwill messages from the Wife of the Governor, Barr. Chioma Uzodinma; the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahaya; the Commissioner for Information, Hon. Declan Emelumba; and the National President of the League of Women Voters, Mrs. Irene Awunah.

Throughout the sessions, delegates reviewed NAWOJ’s programmes, including the gains recorded in the “Her Seat in Parliament” initiative aimed at boosting women’s political participation. However, the discussions soon broadened into a passionate national call for action as members expressed grave concern over rising insecurity across the country.

The NEC condemned recent killings and abductions in Kwara and Kebbi States, the alarming increase in child kidnappings, cases of minors—both boys and girls—being raped, and heightened violence against women in parts of the North. Describing the situation as a “national emergency,” NAWOJ urged security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice without delay.

Equally troubling to delegates was the deplorable state of major highways, which they described as “death traps” that endanger commuters, worsen insecurity, and slow economic activities. They called on the Federal Government to prioritize urgent rehabilitation of key road networks and enhance surveillance along major routes.

Despite the challenges, the Council reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration within the media industry and applauded the NUJ President for his solidarity. NAWOJ pledged to uphold ethical journalism, empower women professionals, and continue advocating for a society where women can thrive without fear or discrimination.

As the curtains fell on the 2025 NEC meeting, the message reverberated clearly: NAWOJ remains a formidable force for advocacy, accountability, and national transformation. With renewed unity and purpose, the Association vowed to keep amplifying women’s voices and advancing the cause of a safer, more inclusive Nigeria.

In her closing remarks, the Imo State NAWOJ Chairperson, Dr. (Mrs.) Dorothy Nnaji, JP, expressed profound appreciation to all delegates and supporters who made the event a success. She extended special gratitude to:

The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, and his amiable wife, Barr. Chioma Uzodinma,

The Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, and her husband,

The Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation, and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba

The Clerk/Head, Legislative Service, Imo State House of Assembly, Chinelo Emeghara, Esq,

Former NUJ National President, Deacon Chris Isiguzo

NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya

and many others whose contributions were invaluable.

She concluded with prayers for journey mercies, wishing all delegates safe return to their various states.