…as Imo Chapter Sets Record as First South-East Host
By Onyinyechi Nwankwo
Women journalists from across the country converged in Owerri for the NEC meeting of NAWOJ, addressing critical issues like national insecurity and the welfare of women and children, even as the Imo State chapter marked a historic first by hosting the national council in the South-East.
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) held its statutory meeting from November 21 to 23, 2025, bringing together delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The three-day gathering focused on strategies to improve women’s welfare, strengthen ethical journalism, and address national security challenges.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the Council condemned the rising wave of killings, abductions, and violent attacks in several states, including Kwara and Kebbi, describing the incidents as serious threats to national stability.
Delegates also expressed deep concern over the kidnapping and sexual abuse of minors, including young boys, emphasizing that every Nigerian child deserves full protection and dignity.
The NEC further highlighted the deteriorating state of major highways, describing many as death traps that put commuters, especially women at risk of robbery, kidnapping, and fatal accidents.
The Council urged both Federal and State Governments to rehabilitate critical roads, deploy technology-based highway surveillance, and strengthen security patrols to ensure safer mobility.
Delegates reviewed the “Her Seat in Parliament” campaign, a collaborative initiative between NAWOJ and the League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV), aimed at increasing women’s representation in legislative positions nationwide.
They reaffirmed their commitment to expanding women’s leadership and amplifying their voices in governance.
Governor Hope Uzodimma, represented by Deputy Governor Lady Chinyere Ekomaro, acknowledged the role of journalists in promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability.
He encouraged members of NAWOJ to continue championing equity, inclusive leadership, and responsible reporting across the country.
The keynote lecture was delivered by Chinelo Emeghara Esq., Clerk and Head of Service of the Imo State House of Assembly, who urged women journalists to deepen their understanding of laws affecting women and children, noting that informed journalism strengthens policy advocacy and enhances implementation.
The NEC expressed gratitude to the Imo State Government for hosting the national gathering and commended ongoing infrastructural development in the state.
It also reaffirmed the association’s dedication to strengthening ethical journalism, safeguarding media practitioners, and advancing the welfare of women and children nationwide.
In recognition of contributions to the success of the meeting, awards were presented to Governor Hope Uzodimma (received on his behalf by Deputy Governor Ekomaro), Commissioner for Information and Strategy Hon. Declan Emelumba, Commissioner for Women Affairs Mrs. Nkechi Ugwu, NUJ National President Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, and League of Women Voters National President Mrs. Irene Awunah.
Additionally, the Imo State NAWOJ Chapter received a special award for making history as the first South-East host of the national council.
