IWD: NAWOJIANS Trained On Gender Reporting To End FGM

In continuation of activities to mark International Women’s Day, Female journalists in Abuja have been trained on gender sensitive reporting, with a view to give the female folks a voice in the society, especially Ending Female Genital Mutilation.

The event which held at the Yar’adua Center in Abuja, was put together by the Female Journalists Network in collaboration with the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, FCT Chapter.

On the Occasion, the Chairperson of NAWOJ, Comrade Bassey Ita- ikpang while speaking on the topics, ” Together Ensure Inclusivity- Loud Her Voice ” urged journalists to be deliberate in amplifying the voices of women in their reportage.

“Make deliberate efforts to feature women on issues that affects or hinder them in your news items, special reports, and programme. By so doing, you will be contributing your quota in giving her a voice “.

Speaking in an interview on the programme, Comrade Ikpang who appreciated Nawojians for turning out en mass to see to the success of the programme, stressed the need for all female journalists to work together with unity of purpose.

Her words”I am excited at the turnout and the success of the event. Everybody contributed to the success we recorded today. As women we need to support each other, so my call and passionate appeal to all NAWOJIANS is let us be more United. Together we can break new grounds to achieve our set goals”.

The Founder, Female Journalists Network Nigeria, Joy Asonye spoke extensively on giving women their rights
by amplifying issues that could make the world a better place.

Asonye specifically called on journalists and relevant stakeholders to stir up conversations around the need to end Female Genital Mutilation, FGM, still being practiced in some rural parts of the country, considering its health implications.

A Forensic Expert, also taught Journalists to desist from posting their private life on the internet, especially as it relates to their bodies with the opposite sex.

Chairman of the occasion, and former Director General, Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Dr Peterside Dakuku, who noted that women encounter multifaceted challenges, commended those that had broken through the glass ceiling.

He also stressed the need to prioritize female education.

Chairperson, Senate Committee on Women Affairs, Senator Ireti Kingibe, represented by her Senior Special Adviser on Media and Press Secretary, Nana Kazaure, cautioned against gender based violence, and urged women to lend their voices in canvassing for adequate security that will enhance safe school environment.

The Chairman, Nigerian Union of Journalists, FCT Council, Patrick Osarenti,who emphasized the importance of women in nation building, encouraged female journalists to develop themselves and allow their opinion and strength be the force that drives them in all their endeavors.

The Chairperson, House of Representatives Press Corps, Comrade Grace Ike, urged women not to waiver in their commitment to promote justice, equity and fairness, noting that there is a compelling need to lobby the National Assembly to pass sensitive bills that protect women from all injustices limiting them.

Other speakers called for action on the need to implement the 35 percent affirmative action for women participation in politics and other sectors.

Highpoint of the event was the launch of a pamphlet on the dangers of Female Genital Mutilation to be distributed to rural women.

The Female Journalists were also given free medical test, free eye screening.