NAWOJ FCT, German Embassy Train Women Journalists On Investigative, Gender-Sensitive Reporting

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, in partnership with the German Embassy, has trained some women journalists on investigative and gender-sensitive reporting as part of activities marking the International Women’s Day 2026.

Speaking at the training in Abuja, Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, Comrade Bassey Ita-Ikpang, said the initiative was designed to equip female journalists with critical skills in investigative reporting, ethical journalism, gender-sensitive storytelling, and leadership.

She emphasized the importance of empowering women journalists to shape public discourse, promote accountability, and drive social change.

“At a time when the media plays a pivotal role in shaping public discourse, it is essential that women journalists are not only visible but empowered to influence narratives and promote accountability,” she said.

Ita-Ikpang described the training as a deliberate effort to build a strong, informed, and resilient network of women journalists who can act as agents of change, while reaffirming NAWOJ FCT’s commitment to ethical journalism, women leadership, and national development.

She also expressed appreciation to the German Embassy for its support in advancing gender equality, media development and democratic governance.

The German Embassy, represented by its Spokesperson, Mr. Felix Haala, said the partnership was aimed at strengthening the capacity of female journalists and amplifying their voices in the media space.

“Nigeria has a large media landscape with many talented women journalists. Strengthening their capacity and network will ensure their voices are heard, and without female journalists, there is no development,” Haala noted.

In a keynote address, NAWOJ National President, Comrade Aisha Ibrahim, urged women journalists to go beyond storytelling to become advocates for truth, bridge-builders, and drivers of societal transformation.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, represented by the Council’s Treasurer, Comrade Sandra Chukwugekwu, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to professionalism, inclusivity, and continuous capacity building.

She commended NAWOJ FCT leadership for organizing the training and described the collaboration with the German Embassy as impactful and sustainable.

“As journalists, we are not just observers of society, we are active contributors to democratic governance and social change. When women journalists are empowered, the entire society benefits,” she said.

In a paper presentation, the CEO of Valor Communications, Dr. Lemmy Ughegbe stressed the need for journalists to embrace investigative reporting and fact-check digitally sourced information to curb misinformation and fake news.

“No matter the pressure, the golden rule remains: when in doubt, leave it out,” he advised.

The Former NAWOJ National President, Comrade Ladi Bala, in her paper presentation encouraged participants to be agents of change, support one another in leadership, and adopt a gender lens in reporting, to enhance women’s visibility in the media.

She noted that women remain underrepresented in media narratives and called for more inclusive and justice-driven reporting.

“The issue of justice, right, and action are needed in the media space too. For instance, women are grossly marginalized in the pattern of our reportage when it comes to gender reporting. ”

Some participants described the training as insightful and impactful, noting that the knowledge gained would enhance their professional practice and storytelling approach.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji