Lifestyle

NUJ Oyo Holds Nine Lessons, Carol Service

By Web News 302

By Jeffrey Ahonmisi

The newly elected executives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Oyo State Council, have marked their first major outing with a colourful Nine Lessons and Christmas Carol celebration in Ibadan.

The event, held at the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, featured the reading of nine biblical lessons interspersed with uplifting Christmas carols rendered by choirs from Molete Baptist Church, Christ Apostolic Church, CAC, Reformation Land, and Total Man Assembly.

Merry Christmas from all of us at Radio Nigeria Ibadan Zonal Station

Delivering the sermon, the General Overseer of Christ Apostolic Church, CAC, Reformation Land, Akaran Road, Ibadan, Prophet Timothy Arabambi, underscored the vital role of journalists in shaping society.

He admonished media practitioners to discharge their duties with the fear of God, maintain balance in reportage, and refrain from using the influence of their profession to intimidate others.

Prophet Arabambi also reminded the congregation that Christmas transcends festivity, describing it as a season of reflection, sacrifice, and compassion for the less privileged.

In his remarks, the Chairman, NUJ, Oyo State Council, Mr Akeem Abas, expressed appreciation to guests and members, assuring them that his administration would prioritise welfare, capacity building, and the restoration of professionalism in journalism.

Highlights of the service included scripture readings, special renditions of traditional Christmas hymns, and prayers offered for the success of the new NUJ executives.

Dignitaries at the event included past and present union leaders, among them Chairperson, National Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Oyo State, Mrs Omolola Alamu, former NAWOJ Chairperson, Mrs Adekitan Adeagbo; National Trustee of the NUJ, Mr Seye Ojo; chapel members; and the FRCN Ibadan News Management Team led by former Chairman, NUJ Oyo State Council, and Deputy Director, News and Current Affairs, Mr Adewumi Faniran.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Health

Depression: Medical Expert Advocates Policies to end Stigmatisation against Victims

By Web News 373

By Mojisola Oladele 

A Consultant Psychiatric, Osun State Specialist Hospital, Asubiaro, Osogbo, Doctor Folashade Dare says there is need for government to formulate policies and Laws to end stigmatisation against people with depression.

Dr Dare made the call during a programme organized by NAWOJ Osun State Chapter, held at the NUJ Press Center, Osogbo.

Theme of the event is ” Breaking the culture of silence on mental health, embracing life”

Dr Dare who was the supporting speaker of the event stressed the need for more enlightenment programmes to educate people on the need to speak out in the face of unpleasant situations.

The Consultant Psychiatrist who noted that treatment for those with mental health challenge is expensive advocated for free health services.

She emphasized the need to create a culture of open communication in order to give opportunity for people to speak out.

Earlier, the State Commissioner Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Social Welfare and Commissioner for Health, Represented by the Director Gender, Miss Lola Adewale and the Director Public Health, Doctor Hakeem Bello, respectively, lauded the State NAWOJ for organizing the impacting event and called on the union to promote stories that heal and not stories that impact negatively on people.

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News

Gov’s Aide, NAWOJ, Team Up to Amplify Women’s Voices

By Web News 66

By Olufisoye Adenitan

The Special Adviser on Women Affairs to Ondo state governor, Lucky Ayedatiwa, Dr Seun Osamaye has promised a collaboration with the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ to further amplify the voices of women in the state

Receiving the NAWOJ Team in her office, the Special Adviser eulogized the roles of women in nation-building hence the need for more collaborative efforts to champion the course of women in the state

Dr. Osamaye also charged NAWOJ to help give more visibility to women’s issues, improve advocacy to give women more information on activities of the Aiyedatiwa-led administration

She appreciated the NAWOJ team and assured them of productive engagements for women’s growth in the state

Responding, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Ondo state chapter, Tola Gbadamosi, appreciated the Special Adviser for the great work in empowering women, Persons with Disabilities, and other vulnerable groups in the state.

She further sought for support and collaboration for the special Adviser presence at the upcoming NAWOJ Week Dinner and Award Night, an event aimed at celebrating outstanding individuals and more partnerships in promoting women’s rights.

Human Angle

Lawmaker Seeks Collaborative Efforts at Addressing Plight of Women

By Web News 177

By Omolara Adasofunjo

“There is need for collaborative effort to tackle the challenges faced by women and girls in the society”.

This was the thought of the Deputy Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Mrs Bolanle Ajayi in a message to participants at a programme organized by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Ogun State Chapter.

The programme with the theme, “Accelerate Action: Rights Equality and Empowerment for all Women and Girls” was in collaboration with a Non-Governmental Organization, JESA Future Foundation.

Speaking on the theme “Accelerate Action: Rights Equality and Empowerment for all Women and Girls”, Mrs Ajayi who was represented by Mrs Omolara Salau said the House was committed to enacting laws that would help in protecting women and girls from all forms of discrimination and violence..

Also, wife of Olowu of Owu, Abeokuta Olori Aminat Matemilola advised women to acquire leadership training and always support one another through mentorship and empowerment, particularly for the young girls.

Similarly, the State Amirah, Federation of Muslim Women Association in Nigeria, FOMWAN, Alhaja Zainab Jinadu called on stakeholders to provide conducive environment and opportunities that would enable women to realize their potential.

In a remark, the State Chairman, Nigeria Union of journalists, Mr Wale Olanrewaju acknowledged the significant role of women, especially in the Media profession, urging the society to accord them the needed attention and support. 

Earlier, the Chairperson, NAWOJ, Ogun State, Hajia Sekinat Salam had called for measures towards tackling abuses against women and girls, while also advocating increased investment in education for the girl child. 

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Human Angle

Aiyedatiwa’s CPS Continues Support for Widows in Media

By Web News 209

By Bukola Bardi

The Chief Press Secretary, CPS, to the Governor of Ondo State, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Friday presented the third edition of educational support fund for children and widows of late journalists in the state.

While the first and second editions had ten and eleven beneficiaries respectively, a total of twelve beneficiaries in the third edition are to get N50,000 each as academic support for the second term of the current academic session.

Presenting a cheque of N600,000 to the Chairperson of the Ondo State Council of the National Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Tola Gbadamosi, Prince Adeniyan said the gesture was borne out of the love Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has for media practitioners in the state.

In her response, the NAWOJ Chairperson commended governor Aiyedatiwa and the CPS for the continous support for media organisations and practitioners in the state.

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Health

NAWOJ Joins Global Voices to Condemn FGM

By Web News 248

By Omolola Alamu

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Oyo State Chapter, joins the global community to commemorate the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), 

This year’s theme, “stepping up the pace “, emphasizes the need for collective action to eradicate this harmful practice that affects millions of girls and women worldwide.

In a statement, the chairperson OYO Nawoj, Mrs Omolola Alamu and the Secretary, Mrs Eniola Adeaga, the association condemns Female Genital Mutilation in all its forms and calls on governments, policymakers, and stakeholders to Strengthen laws and policies to prevent and respond to FGM

Nawoj urges the Government to Increase funding for initiatives addressing FGM support survivors and provide access to justice and reparations

The association also advises traditional and religious leaders to denounce FGM and promote alternative rites of passage that respect the rights and dignity of girls and women.

The Association call for unity to break the silence, challenge harmful traditions, and demand an end to FGM.

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Politics

NAWOJ, Action Aid Engage Women Ahead of Ondo Guber Poll

By Web News 343

 By Olufisoye Adenitan

National  Association of Women Journalists NAWOJ has called on women in Ondo State  to  show more interest in political participation to achieve adequate women’s representation 

NAWOJ in collaboration with Women Voice and Leadership Project (WVL) of ACTIONAID  Nigeria funded by Global Affairs, Canada made the call during a  town Hall meeting  with women on  participation in politics and  enlightenment ahead of the November 16th governorship election in the state.

The town hall meeting with the Theme: Engaging Grassroots Women for Robust Political Participation was held at Ondo NUJ Press Centre, Adegbemile, Akure.

 The National President, Nigerian Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Comrade Aisha Ibrahim represented by Vice Chairperson, Zone D, Chizoba Ogbeche Said that Nigeria was signed to many charters that recognised women’s rights and representation hence the need for women to show their capacity by engaging in political affairs .

Comrade Ibrahim said women roles are pivotal in societal development,expressing hope that when the gender and equality bill is passed into law its would safeguard women against barriers and stereotypes.

She pledged that NAWOJ would continue to work towards building the capacity of women through enlightenment and advocacy .

Also speaking ,The Vice President B Zone ,Comrade Adeola Adekunle appreciated the national president for the advocacy and engaging session.

Also ,the  Chairman ,Nigeria  Union of Journalist,NUJ Prince Leke Adegbite commended Nawoj National headquaters for the initiative and urged them to help empower female Journalists in the state through training ahead of the governorship election in  November 16th,2024.

In his own submission ,Representative in Ondo state ,Mrs Yemi Mahmood said women are strong pillars that should support themselves to have adequate representation in parliament to push forward bills that would benefit the women folks.

The Nigeria League of women Voters ,Mrs Olamiposi Omofunmilewa urged women to speak with one voice and showcase their capacity in their different spaces .

In her Address, the Ondo State Chairperson , NAWOJ ,Comrade Tola Gbadamosi expressed Happiness over the town hall meeting which she said had build capacity of women in Ondo state to know their roles in political participation for adequate representation.

Participants include Women Civil Societies, NGOs, FOMWAN, Female Transporters, Gender-based organizations, Market women, Artisans among others

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Lifestyle

Ogun NAWOJ Gets New Executives

By Web News 396

By Bolanle Adesida

The new executives of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Ogun State chapter have been sworn in with a call on them to keep the flag of the association flying. 

Speaking at the inauguration of the new executives held at Iwe Iroyin, Oke Ilewo Abeokuta, the vice president of NAWOJ, B Zone, Mrs. Omobola Akingbein urged the new executives to be united and implement programmes that would enhance the welfare of the members.

In her inaugural speech, the new state chairperson of NAWOJ in Ogun State, Mrs. Sekinot Salam-Opebiyi who promised to operate an open-door policy with integrity, passion, and dedication, described the inauguration as the beginning of a new era in the association.  

While promising that the new executives would facilitate training both internationally and locally, the new chairperson said Ogun NAWOJ would periodically organize vocational training programmes for young graduates.

She also urged women journalists to uphold the ethics of journalism and remain uncompromised stakeholders in sustaining democracy.  

Other members of the executives are the Vice Chairperson, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Adegoke of Radio Nigeria Paramount FM, Abeokuta, the Secretary, Mrs. Omobolaji Adekunle and Assistant Secretary, Mrs Adejoke Adeleye.

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News

Stakeholders Harp on Equal Opportunity for Girl-Child

By Web News 417

Ogun State Government has called for a level playing ground for the girl child in an effort to make them reach their potential as equal opportunity is healthy for their growth.

Commissioner of Education, Professor Abayomi Arigbabu made the call in Abeokuta at the commemoration of the international day of the girl child organized by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Ogun State Chapter. 

Professor Arigbabu who maintained that there was hardly anything a boy child could attain that a girl child could not if given equal opportunities pointed out that the persistent problem of gender stereotypes was consciously and subconsciously perpetrated by everyone.

The Commissioner revealed that the issue of gender stereotypes had been on for ages as a result of some myths in Yoruba culture and tradition which tend to position one gender over the other.

Commissioner for culture and tourism, Mrs Adijat Adeleye-Oladapo called on the young female gender in society to uphold their moral values and imbibe noble character to boost self-confidence, as well as shape the attitude that will determine their behaviour in the future.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the father of the day and founder, of pen-pushing media, prince Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji called on the students never to confuse infatuation for love as they continue in their studies and to dress decently to portray good moral upbringing.

Similarly, the mother of the day and the Ogun State President, Gospel Musicians Association of Nigeria, GOMAN, Evangelist Damola Omonijo encouraged all female children to be mindful of their youthful age, imbibe good character and be determined to succeed in the future regardless of their current challenges.

Speaking on the theme, ‘’Bibiire’’, the guest lecturer, Princess Adejoke  Shomoye, admonished the students to be focused, innovative and always be the best, as they are an important specie that the world was waiting for.

Earlier, the NAWOJ chairperson, noted that the association decided to draw girl children’s attention to the moral and cultural values of the society.

Modupeola Sobukonla

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Health

Validate Facts before Reporting, WHO tells Journalists

By Web News 518

Journalists have been admonished to ensure their health reports are validated by experts before publishing

Oyo State Coordinator, World Health Organisation,WHO, Dr Phillips Zorto gave the admonition in Ibadan in a remark at a day capacity building for journalists in the state organised by WHO in partnership with the State Ministry of Health and the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Oyo state chapter.

Dr Zorto explained that it was only when such reports were validated that a journalist could be sure of passing the right information to the public.

He noted that media personnel should be able to set the agenda on health reportage instead of creating panic for members of the public.

“Media have so much power that is the reason why I want to believe that Oyo State Government through the State Ministry of Health organised this training so that you can go and spread this information not only at the State capital but be disseminated at every nooks and crannies of Oyo state so that people can the magnitude of the problem we have at hand…”

Presenting the health situation report on epidemic diseases, the Oyo State Disease Notification Officer, Mrs Titilope Akinleye said that over eighty-five thousand samples were collected for COVID -19 testing, ten thousand, three hundred and eighteen were confirmed, ten thousand and sixty recovered while two hundred and two deaths were recorded.

In a lecture entitled,” The Role of Media in Diseases Emergencies, the Oyo State Chairperson of NAWOJ, Mrs Jadesola Ajibola hinted that reports must not be written to scare the public but to give accurate information.

Earlier, in a welcome address, Oyo State Director of Public Health, Dr Olubunmi Ayinde said the capacity training was an opportunity to enlighten journalists about epidemiology diseases in order to educate members of the public.

Other speakers who spoke on Monkey pox, Lassa fever, Yellow Fever, Meningitis and Neo-Natal Tetanus all appealed to the public not to overlook any sign but report such at the nearest hospital.

Morenike Tony-Esan.

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Education News

NAWOJ Holds Summer Programme for Teens

By Web News 498

Teenagers can carve a niche for themselves in any chosen profession if well guided.

 Chairperson, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Oyo State chapter, stated this at a summer programme organised in conjunction with a non-governmental organization,

Mrs Ajibola explained that the programme would afford the participants to meet professionals who would mentor them in their career aspiration

“To help the students or teenagers carve a niche in the areas of chosen career, for instance, some feel I want to be an engineer but on the programme,  they have been given an opportunity to meet who is a notable Engineer, Journalist, Doctor Lawyer to mention some”.

 Besides seminars on careers, the programme featured health education.

 Education Officer, Oyo state Ministry of Health, Mrs Rasheedah Ajao said the ministry was at the programme to create awareness on malaria precautions, tuberculosis, COVID-19 and to vaccinate the teenagers

 Some of the participants who spoke with Radio Nigeria expressed delight at being enlightened on healthy living.

The  programme also featured a special game in Yoruba called Egbeje ede, which taught the students how to spell Yoruba words

The five-day programme ends on Friday.

Funmilola Obagbayegun

Education

NAWOJ Frowns at Molestation of Girls

By Web News 385

Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Oyo State Chapter has condemned the rẹoccurence of girl child harassment and sexual molestation at the Federal Government Girls college Owinni in Oyo State.

Chairperson of Oyo NAWOJ, Mrs Jádesola Ajibola gave the Condemnation at a news conference held at NUJ press centre, Iyaganku Ibadan following an allegation of girl child molestation reported by a group of concerned parents of the school.

Mrs Ajibola explained that many girls had reportedly been abused by their male teachers and guardians in the school .
She noted that the management of the school had refused to swing into action regarding the issue.

She, however, urged Oyo State Police Command to speed up investigation and prosecute the accused person who is the teacher before a court of competent jurisdiction within the state without delay.

The Oyo NAWOJ Chairperson wanted the registrar of teachers Registration council of Nigeria, professor Segun Ajiboye to investigate the attitude of deregistered teachers in the country.

Chairman, Oyo State Ministry of women Affairs Rapid team on gender based violence, Mr Marcus Williams affirmed that justice would prevail on the perpetrators to serve as deterrent.

Two concerned parents , Mr Adebayo Adewale and Mrs Nancy Faniyan appealed to relavant authorities to help in putting a stop to this evil acts and demanded for proper justice on the perpetrators.

Fasilat Lawal

Politics

Alhaja Ladoja Advocates more Involvement of Women in Politics

By Web News 591

The wife of former Governor of Oyo State, Alhaja Mutiat Ladoja has appealed to members of the National Assembly to reconsider the request for the 35 Percent Affirmation Bill of Inclusion of Women into political positions.

          Alhaja Ladoja made this appeal at a program titled “Women Participation in politics organized by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Oyo state chapter on the occasion of International Women’s Day Celebration.

          The former wife of the governor who decried the low participation of women in politics noted that the call was not to wrest power from men but to use the opportunity to make a positive impact and make a developmental difference in nation-building.

Alhaja Ladoja urged women to collectively make a decision to negotiate for space in elective positions.

Delivering a lecture on “women participation in politics in Nigeria”, a guest lecturer, Professor of Community Development, University of Ibadan, Professor Olumide Olajide highlighted the factors responsible for the low participation of women in politics including culture, gender stereotypes, financial strains and unavailability of resources.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Chairperson, NAWOJ, Oyo state chapter, Mrs Jadesola Ajibola said the motive behind the Program was to encourage more female participation in electioneering appealed to the state governor to give the remaining two slots in National Assembly to women who are willing and capable to hold the office.

The program had in attendance prominent Nigerians including the only female lawmaker in Oyo state, Mrs Olawunmi Oladeji who was awarded the most Outstanding female lawmaker, Mrs Taye Soege who represented the Oba Lekan Balogun and former Governor Alhaja Mutiat Ladoja who was awarded the Grand Matron of NAWOJ.

Blessing Adesanya

Lifestyle

IWD 2022: Women Groups Want Adequate Inclusion in Politics

By Web News 478

Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, and other women group have embarked on a peaceful walk to advocate more women inclusion in the nation’s political process as a way of commemorating this year’s International Women’s Day in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

The peaceful walk began from the Governor’s office in Alagbaka, Akure and terminated at the Ondo state House of Assembly.

The women carried placards with various inscriptions such as “NAWOJ demands, total rights of women, NATO stands against women “HARASSMENT”, “FIDA demands 35% affirmative action to register their displeasure on the shutting down of gender bills” by the national assembly.

Leading the protest was NAWOJ chairperson in Ondo state, Mrs Doris Olumoko, who stressed the need for more elective positions for women in the country and the speedy passage of gender bills into law.

In her contribution, FIDA chairperson, Mrs Jumoke Ogunjebi said it was high time women were carried along in the scheme of things due to the roles they played in both the electoral and political processes.

Also speaking, special assistant to the Ondo state governor on gender matters, Mrs Olamide Falana noted that women needed to be duly compensated for their immeasurable contributions to nation building.

Receiving the women on behalf of the Ondo State House of Assembly speaker, Chairman, House Committee on Information, Mr Olugbenga Omole said their grievances would be presented to the assembly.

Women groups such as FIDA, FOMWAN, WOWICAN, NCWS and Association of medical women were part of the protest.

Tosin Aderibigbe

Lifestyle

NAWOJ Condemns Stigmatization, Molestation of Women

By Web News 663

As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to celebrate International women’s day, women have been admonished to exhibit good virtues in order to attain their desired goals.

This was the submission of respondents who spoke with Radio Nigeria on the occasion of the day which has the theme: gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow”.

International Women’s Day has become a date to celebrate how far women have come in society, politics and in economics across the World.

Speaking on status of the proposed 35per cent affirmative action for women in Politics bill, Member of the National Assembly, Representing Ede North, Egbedore and Ejigbo federal constituency, Osun State, Mr. Bamidele Salam explained that when the proposal failed to scale through, he moved for an amendment to 15per cent which was seconded by Representative Musa Bagos from Plateau state and with the hope that more members will support the bill.

Mr Salam restated his commitment to the principles of gender balancing, inclusive bills and support anytime the occasion arises.

He stressed that the role of women in nation building cannot be overemphasized, hence the need to give them required support and assistance.

Also in her remark, Chairman Osun state House of Assembly committee on women and children affairs, Alhaja Mulikat Abiola said Women are expected to be good Managers of the home and resources, hence the need to uphold their family.

Alhaja Abiola explained that women are the spies and salt of the world therefore they should respect their spouses as well as ensure they focus on proper upbringing of their children for a better society.

She commended Governor Adegboyega Oyetola led administration for his various Policies aimed at improving the lives of women and children in the state.

Responding, The Vice Chairperson, National Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Osun State Chapter, Mrs Abosede Egbedele decried the stigmatization and molestation of women and girls in the Nigerian society.

On the issues of molestation of minors, the NAWOJ Vice Chairperson Osun, said women should not allow their business or career affect their role of supervising the girl and boy child from fallen victims of societal ills.

Mrs Egbedele emphasized that women should rise to support their colleagues who have political ambition as women are noted for good leadership qualities.

Mojisola Oladele

Yoruba

Egbe NAWOJ kilo Fawon Obi Lati Mojuto Awon Omo Won

By Web News 1102

Egbe awon obinrin oniroyin  nile nigeria NAWOJ eka tipinle ogun ti gba awon obi niyanju pe ki won kilo fawon omo won lori gbigba ebun ofe to lee ko won siyonu laako ayeye ayajo ololufe.

Ipolongo ilaniloye naa lo gbe awon omo egbe NAWOJ lo sile ijosin lolokan ofokan pelu awon oja nilu Abeokuta.

Nigba to n bawon ontaja soro loja lafenwa alaga egbe NAWOJ nipinle ogun arabinrin Modupeopla Sobukola salaye wi pe eto ilaniloye  naa se pataki lati fi la awon  odo kuro ninu ewu didi oloro ojiji.

Arabinrin Sobukola tenumo idi to fi ye kawon obi naa topase irinsi awon omo won nigba gbogbo, ki won ma baa bo si  panpe awon apani setutu ola to gbode.

Ninu oro re, Babaloja Lafenwa, Oloye Mukaila Adeyinka dupe lowo egbe obinrin oniroyin fun igbiyanju won leyi ti yoo ta awon obi ji giri sojuse won.

Sobukonla / Salaudeen

Crime

Ondo NAWOJ Visits Brutalized Boy, Advocates End to Child Trafficking

By Web News 674

The Nigeria Association of women journalists NAWOJ wants relevant authorities to step up the fight against human trafficking and child Labour.

The chairperson of Nawoj, Ondo State, Mrs Doris Olumoko in the company of the National Financial Secretary of the Association, Adeola Adekunle and other members were at the police clinic Akure to check on Joel Sunday, the child allegedly brutalized with Razorblade by his Guardian in Adebowale Road, Akure.

The NAWOJ chairperson lamented that the inhumane cases of child abuse and brutality in Nigeria are on the increase and most trafficked children are victims. 

From the Narration of the ten-year-old brutalized boy, he and his seven-year-old sister were trafficked from Kaduna state to work in Ilorin, Kwara State as House help before they moved to Akure, Ondo State with the woman they are working with. 

The NAWOJ Chairperson expressed shock considering the ill-treatment melted on the boy and expressed optimism that justice would be served as the Ondo State police command has charged the culprit, Mrs Opeyemi Omoyeni to court. 

She is being arraigned on a five-count charge of attempted murder, child abuse, violence against a person’s prohibition among others.

During the visit, NAWOJ made a cash donation for the little boy’s medication.

Olufisoye Adenitan

Lifestyle

Hanifa’s Murder: A horrific evil act of wickedness – NAWOJ

By Web News 879

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, has described the kidnap and gruesome murder of five-year-old Hanifa Abubakar by her teacher after collecting a ransom of six million naira from her parents, as a horrific, barbaric and inhuman evil act of wickedness.

The killing of the innocent Nigerian child by the proprietor of her school, smacks of gross betrayal of trust which the little girl and her parents reposed in the institution and the proprietor.

A statement by the NAWOJ President, Mrs Ladi Bala notes the increase in cases of killings for money and ritual purposes has assumed a frightening dimension thus making life unsafe for Nigerians.

NAWOJ maintained that killings, kidnappings, sexual and gender-based violence are taking a severe toll on women and girls, who are the soft targets of evil perpetrators.

“As mothers, we always with pains that this is no longer the Nigeria we grew up to know where the care for the younger generation was the responsibility of all adults and the community as a whole.” Mrs Bala said

NAWOJ appealed to Nigerians to be more vigilant, security-conscious as well as report suspicious characters to security agencies.

Funmi Adekoya

Health

NAWOJ Task Women Group on Campaign against Gender-Based Violence

By Web News 830

Women groups and associations have been urged to intensify efforts in the fight to eliminate all forms of violence against women and children.

The Vice President of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, B Zone, Comrade Omobola Nowo-ola Akingbehin made the call in her message to commemorate the international day of elimination of violence against women and girls with the theme ‘Orange the world, end violence against women now’.

Comrade Akingbehin maintained that to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls, all hands must be on deck either through prevention which involves awareness and sensitization, or response which includes health care, security, legal and psychological intervention.

She posited that women hold a very critical position in the society which demands that they must be intentional in the campaign against Gender Based Violence.

Comrade Akingbehin highlighted sexual abuse, rape involving minors, underaged girls, wife battery, maltreatment of widows by step-children or other relatives, as some of violence against women and children.

She emphasised the need for female journalists to be at the forefront of enlightening citizens about rights and policies available to protect women rights as well as advocate on issues that affect citizens like the implementation of Violence against Persons Prohibition law.

The NAWOJ Vice President also stressed the need to promote unity and peace, among the women folk, speaking with one voice to fight against all forms of Violence Against Women and Girls, as she admonished against selfish interests.

Funmi Adekoya

Lifestyle

Oyo NAWOJ Hails Members For Applaudable Attendance At The Ongoing Oyo NUJ Press week – Congratulates Florence Ajimobi

By Web News 940

Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Oyo State Chapter has commended its members for coming out enmass to participate in the 2021 Oyo NUJ Press Week.

In a release jointly signed by its Chairperson, Comrade Omolola Alamu and the Secretary, Comrade Ramat Alade shortly after the programmes marking the second day of the NUJ Press Week held at the NUJ Press Center, Iyaganku, Ibadan.

NAWOj described the organisation of the events as commendable and a step above last year programmes.

The chairperson affirmed that the present NAWOJ in the state is an association where every member is involved hence the need to give active supports to the Demola Babalola led administration in moving OYO NUJ to a greater height.

She said “Oyo NUJ is highly commended for its unprecedented achievements in the last two years in office. NAWOJ appreciates the calibre of personalities the Union has bestowed with awards of Excellence among whom is the former First lady of Oyo state Chief Mrs Florence Abiola Ajimobi who was awarded with the most influencer woman of the year”.

She stressed that it is a well deserved honor on her Excellency considering her active involvement in the well being of women and children in Oyo state and Nigeria as a whole.

Oyo NAWOJ also congratulates her Excellency on the new achievement added to her cap and prayed God to bless her abundantly and give her the most required sound health to continue contributing positively to the life of the populace especially women and children.

Anthonia Akanji

Lifestyle News

Àlàmú, Others, Emerge New Oyo NAWOJ Executives

By Web News 868

Mrs Omolola Alamu of Federal Radio Corporation Of Nigeria, Ibadan Station has emerged as the New  Chairperson, Nigerian Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ.


Mrs Alamu was elected alongside other executive members by registered NAWOJ  members at an election held at the NUJ press Centre in Ibadan. While the election was going on at the Press centre as directed by NAWOJ secretariat, another faction led by Mrs Jadesola Ajibola was also conducting another election at a location in Ibadan.


In her acceptance speech, Mrs Alamu promised to reposition the Association and urged members to be up and doing to lift the association to an enviable heights.
She stressed that the welfare of members would be given utmost priority, saying it was one of the major plans of her team.


Alamu implored Nawojians in the state to give maximum support to her team so as to achieve remarkable success. 


The new chairperson emphasised that with the new team, every member would be involved.
Other newly elected officers are, Shade Oduola-Vice chairperson, Ramat Alade- Secretary, Temilola Akarah- Treasurer, Kehinde Igbari- Asst Secretary, and Temilola Oyewole- Financial Secretary.

The election was held under a conducive environment.


Rasheedat Makinde

Lifestyle

Remain focused on uplifting NAWOJ – Dr. Olatunbosun

By Web News 962

Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun has admonished a chairperson aspirant of Nigerian Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, in Oyo State, Mrs. Omolola Alamu and her team to remain focused on uplifting the association if elected.

Dr. Olatunbosun gave the admonition when the campaign train tagged, “The New Dawn Team” paid him a courtesy call at his office, Secretariat, Ibadan, after the team had visited the Information Chapel of the ministry to canvass the votes of women journalists.

The commissioner while stressing the need for the team to priortise the welfare of members if elected, equally solicited the support of the association for the present administration in the task of moving the state forward.

Earlier, the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mr. Rotimi Babalola had urged the New Dawn Team led by Mrs Omolola Alamu of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Ibadan to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship for the election and shun acts that could bring the name of NAWOJ into disrepute.

The chairperson aspirant, Mrs. Omolola Alamu while canvassing for votes of NAWOJ members, pledged her team’s readiness to run an all-inclusive executive.

The campaign team later proceeded to Nigeria Television Authority, NTA, Ibadan.

Addressing the team at NTA, an Assistant Director News, Mrs. Aduniade Alao asked the team not to derail from the mission that NAWOJ stood for, in uplifting the women and children.

On the New Dawn Team are Shade Oduola vying for the post of Vice-Chairperson, Alhaja Ramat Alade for the office of the Secretary, Kehinde Igbari as Assistant Secretary, Temilola Akarah, Treasurer, and Temitope Oyewole as secretary. 

Iyabo Adebisi

Lifestyle

My administration will reposition Oyo NAWOJ – Omolola Alamu

By Web News 933

Former Chairperson of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Oyo State Chapter, Mrs Folusho Lala has called on the candidate for the position of first woman journalist in the state to desist from a campaign of bitterness. 

She stated this at the flag-off of the campaign of Mrs. Omolola Alamu of Radio Nigeria and her team codenamed “The New Dawn” at NUJ Press Center, Iyaganku Ibadan.

Mrs. Lala stated further that the New Dawn Team campaign should be devoid of hate speech and propaganda that could destroy the peaceful atmosphere in the association. 

Also speaking, the former chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ in Oyo State, Mr. Gbenga Ayoade called on the New Dawn Team to shun do-or-die actions, and be friendly in their approach during their campaign. 

On his part, the chairman of FRCN NUJ Chapel, Alhaji Nafiu Busari expressed optimism that the team would emerge victoriously. 

In a remark, the New Dawn NAWOJ Chairperson candidate, Mrs. Omolola Alamu of Radio Nigeria, Ibadan National Station promised that the long quest for the better repositioning of Oyo NAWOJ would become a reality if she emerges victorious.

Other team members include Shakirat Oduoka vying for the position of vice-chairperson, Ramat Alade as secretary, Temilola Akarah as treasurer, Kehinde Igbari as assistant secretary and Temitope Oyewoke as financial secretary. 

Rasheedah Makinde

Health

NAWOJ Makes Case For Overall Well- Being Of Girl Child

By Web News 584

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has made a case for the rights, safety and education of the girl child in Nigeria, as governments and organizations around the world come together to mark the 2021 International Day of the Girl Child, which is observed annually on October 11.

In Nigeria as in other countries, girls face distinct disadvantages for being both young and female. United Nations statistics show that about 129 million girls around the world are out of school with less than 40 per cent of countries providing girls and boys with equal access to education. 

The International Day of the Girl Child is dedicated to the growth of girls around the world and promotes awareness about gender equality as well as focuses on the issues faced by girls worldwide because of their gender. It is an occasion to raise awareness on the obstacles that girls all over the world face and to celebrate and reinforce their achievements.

Over the years, major issues faced by girls include lack of or low level of education, nutrition, legal rights, medical care and protection from discrimination.

They suffer sexual and gender based violence, gender biases, discrimination, subjection to harmful circumstances and forced child marriage, that impede their health, safety, stability, education and other opportunities. 

These reflect the inequality they face in the society.

 In Nigeria, factors like ethnicity, religion and disability heighten the existing disadvantages that girls face. From being denied access to education to being forced into child marriage, our girls face a myriad of obstacles that prevent them from realising their full potential.

For millions of girls in conflict and crisis areas, these challenges are especially formidable and when women and girls lack power in their homes and communities, they are inevitably affected more than others in situations as armed conflict, drought, flood or COVID-19.

The 2021 theme of the International Day of the Girl Child, “Digital generation, Our generation,” focuses on promoting equal opportunity for girls in accessing technologies and bridging the digital divide as it can also widen gender gap.

 According to the United Nations, girls are more likely to be cut off, pointing to a gender divide within the digital divide. The UN also stated that girls are less likely than boys to “use and own devices.”

This affects the number of girls in technology-related skills and jobs as the percentage of females among Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) graduates is below 15 per cent in over two-thirds of countries, which is a serious point that needs to be looked into.

Therefore, on this International Day of the Girl Child, NAWOJ calls on governments at all levels to commit to ensuring opportunities and equality for girls and urges everyone to tackle those persistent barriers against equal opportunities for our girls as well as those that are inimical to the advancement of girls in Nigeria.

NAWOJ urges governments to ensure every girl child has access to the educational opportunities she requires to build a better life for herself in addition to keeping girls in school, since education is essential to women’s futures.

We particularly seek targeted investments to facilitate opportunities for girls to safely and meaningfully access, use, lead and design technology even as we advocate for girls’ digital access and inclusion across technology and innovation.

We urge actions towards the elimination of all forms of discrimination against girls, and an end to those practices that hinder the chances of our girls at education, technology inclusion, healthcare, economic empowerment, rights to inheritance, as well as all forms of sexual and other forms of violence against girls, while survivors of violence should be provided with safe spaces, prompt and free medical attention, counselling and legal assistance.

NAWOJ strongly believes that providing protection equal opportunities for the girl child, besides being a fundamental human right, is essential to achieving peaceful societies, with full human potential and sustainable development. Moreover, it has been shown that empowering women spurs productivity and economic growth. So, ensuring that girls can reach their full potential is not just a moral imperative, but a strategic one as well.

Investing in the girl child education not only equips girls with skills and knowledge to grow and prosper, it also helps their siblings, family, and the wider community to thrive as well, while they are more likely to support themselves, look after their health, avoid early marriage and pregnancy and contribute to societal growth.

Finally, there is need to educate the girl child about their rights, help them make healthy choices, protect them from violence, and teach them to be leaders and able to build a brighter future.

There is no gainsaying that when our government and the private sector invest in the education of girls, our communities would be healthier and our economies stronger.

Ladi Bala

National President

Helen Udofa

National Secretary

Security

Insecurity Threatening Girl-Child Education In Nigeria – NAWOJ

By Web News 663

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, has raised the alarm that the disturbing insecurity in the country was already affecting the disposition of young people, especially girls, towards education.

The association noted that education, health and general welfare of girls are being threatened by incessant abductions and other security challenges in the country.

It made this known at a conference with the theme: “Insecurity: The Girl-Child Endangered Specie” in Lagos.

According to the association, insecurity has compounded age-long barriers to formal education of the Nigerian girl-child which include early and forced marriage, systemic gender biases and inadequate infrastructure.

NAWOJ further noted that sexual harassment by teachers, cultism, economic constraints and limiting culture also stood against formal education of girls.

It, however, warned that incessant abductions of schoolgirls might make them unprepared tomorrow’s mothers, adding that the abductions would have negative impact on the future of the country.

The association, therefore, suggested that “all tiers of governments should urgently keep every schools safe, to stop attacks on education of girls and boys and protect their future and the nation’s. Governments should also ensure deployment of security agents in all schools as well as fencing of all schools”.

“Civil society organisations and all citizens of the country should support governments in protecting girl-child education.”

“Traditional rulers should rise to the occasion of ensuring security in their communities by further promoting societal values and reporting questionable characters to appropriate authorities”.

“There should be constitutional roles and allocations for traditional rulers to enable them to meet security needs of their communities. When they are not empowered, it is a challenge”.

“Children’s right to education must be protected in spite of security challenges”.

“Nigerian authorities need to live up to their commitments and double efforts towards providing a safe learning environment for children”.

“Creation of more awareness for the girl-child on dangers around her”.

“Adequate implementation of the laws against attacks, including sexual violence against the girl-child”.

“Traditional method of punishing child, such as abuse, shaming”.

“Relatives of girls and other children should report abuse on them to appropriate quarters for possible prosecution”.

”Nigerians should deliberately eschew wickedness and embrace love and kindness as a strategy to promote national development.”

Funmi Adekoya