By Nkechi Eze
As Nigeria grapples with multi-faceted security challenges ranging from insurgency and banditry to cybercrime and misinformation, the role of the media especially women journalists has never been more vital. In response to this reality, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D (North Central), convened its inaugural zonal conference in Abuja to interrogate the intersection of journalism, gender, and national security.
Held under the theme, “Curbing Insecurity: The Role of Female Journalists in National Security,” the conference brought together female media professionals from across the North Central states, including Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking at the high-level event, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, hailed the contributions of Nigerian female journalists to national development, stressing that their role transcends reporting to shaping national narratives and amplifying marginalized voices.
“As women, professionals, and storytellers, you hold a unique position in shaping narratives, amplifying the voices of the vulnerable, and fostering national unity. You are often the voice for the voiceless and a beacon of hope in communities affected by violence.
“This conference marks a significant milestone not just in the advancement of female journalists, but in the broader push for inclusive, ethical, and impactful journalism in our country,” Dr. Mahmoud stated.
She emphasized that the nation is at a crucial point in its history, where terrorism, banditry, cyber threats, and misinformation pose complex challenges that demand collaborative responses. According to her, female journalists occupy a unique position in confronting these issues not only through investigative reporting but by shaping narratives, amplifying underrepresented voices, and fostering national cohesion.
Dr. Mahmoud further acknowledged the myriad of challenges faced by women in journalism, including gender-based harassment, safety risks, unequal opportunities, and limited leadership representation. She used the platform to advocate for improved safety, fair representation, and policy reforms that will enable women journalists to thrive.
“Let this conference be a rallying call to address those challenges through policy reforms, training, advocacy, and a united front,” she charged.
The Minister also highlighted several strategic initiatives under the FCT Administration led by Minister Nyesom Wike, aimed at improving security across the capital territory. These include inter-agency collaborations, investments in surveillance infrastructure, the establishment of rapid response task forces, and critical urban renewal projects such as road rehabilitation and the installation of street lights to deter criminal activity.
In her goodwill message, Senator Ireti Heebah Kingibe, ably represented by Dr. Mercy Kwabe, commended the leadership and members of NAWOJ Zone D for organizing a timely and impactful event, noting that the theme speaks directly to one of Nigeria’s most urgent national concerns.
“This theme speaks directly to one of the most pressing challenges facing our nation today insecurity and the critical, though often under-recognised, role that female journalists play in shaping public discourse, exposing threats, promoting peace, and strengthening national resilience,” she said.
She emphasized that the media remains one of the most influential platforms for shaping public opinion and policy direction, and female journalists bring a unique lens to this role. According to her, from reporting on community-level conflict to amplifying the voices of the marginalized, women journalists help inform, unite, and catalyze positive action.
“As a female legislator and a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, I recognize the daily courage it takes for women journalists to navigate hostile environments, challenge misinformation, and report from the frontlines, all while juggling personal and professional expectations. Your role is not only noble, it is indispensable.”
Senator Kingibe stressed that women journalists are uniquely positioned to spotlight the gendered dimensions of insecurity, including sexual violence, forced displacement, and the silencing of women’s voices. She noted that empowering female journalists is synonymous with strengthening democracy, enhancing public accountability, and laying the foundation for peace and justice.
“Let me use this moment to reaffirm my commitment to supporting women in journalism, in leadership, and in every sector where their contributions uplift our society. I encourage you to continue your work with boldness, integrity, and an unwavering sense of purpose,” she stated.
She urged participants to take advantage of the conference to build stronger networks, advocate for safer working conditions, and uphold the highest standards of journalistic integrity.
“You are not alone. We stand with you, shoulder to shoulder, as you shape narratives that inspire a safer, more united Nigeria,” Senator Kingibe concluded.
Earlier in her welcome address, Mrs. Chizoba Ogbeche, the Zonal Vice President of NAWOJ Zone D, reiterated the association’s commitment to repositioning female journalists as active agents of change in the national security architecture. She said the evolving security challenges in the North Central zone including insurgency, kidnappings, banditry, and human rights violations demand proactive and nuanced media responses.
“Their storytelling brings balance and diversity to security coverage, ensuring more inclusive national conversations,” Ogbeche said.
She advocated for closer collaboration with civil society organisations, academia, and policy stakeholders to deepen the capacity of female journalists and ensure their safety in the line of duty.
The conference featured a series of interactive sessions, expert panel discussions, and presentations focused on gender-sensitive reporting, media ethics, safety in conflict zones, and the integration of women into national security dialogues.
Delegates left with renewed inspiration to raise the standard of journalism, support each other professionally, and push for reforms that promote inclusivity, justice, and national healing.
The NAWOJ Zone D conference not only underscored the indispensable role of female journalists in shaping Nigeria’s security narrative but also served as a powerful reminder of the strength and influence that comes when women unite to lead, report, and advocate for peace.
Highlights of the event was presentation of awards and group photographs.
