FIC Report (Benue State) – The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), in collaboration with the Norwegian Union of Journalists, organized a two-day training workshop for female journalists in Benue State, which commenced on Monday, 24th February 2025.
Themed “Gender Equity and Safety for Women Journalists,” the workshop was officially declared open by the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, who was represented by the NUJ Secretary, Oryiman Gwaza. In his remarks, he acknowledged the vital role women journalists play in information dissemination and encouraged them to speak up against marginalization. The event took place at the NUJ House, Makurdi, Benue State.
In her welcome address, Comrade Elizabeth Achagh expressed gratitude to the National Chairperson of NAWOJ, Comrade Aisha Ibrahim, for approving the hosting of this significant workshop in Makurdi.
She also commended the efforts of the former Vice President, Zone D, Comrade Veronica Ogbole, for facilitating the partnership that enabled this valuable training from Norway, offering Benue NAWOJIANS an opportunity to enhance their skills and improve their professional output.
Achagh emphasized the importance of inclusivity and safety in the workplace, highlighting these elements as essential for empowering female journalists to perform at their best. She noted that when individuals operate in an environment that prioritizes fairness and safety, efficiency and productivity naturally improve.
She also appealed to media executives in Benue State to create gender-friendly environments and provide safe spaces for all staff, regardless of gender, to foster development and growth within the industry.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Bridget Tikyaa, Personal Assistant to the Governor on Media, Publicity, and Communication Strategy, emphasized the significance of the workshop in reinforcing the responsibility of women journalists in gender-sensitive reporting. She stressed the importance of understanding gender-based violence, avoiding stereotypes and biases, and amplifying women’s voices in their reports and programs.
She further encouraged increased coverage of gender-related issues, including violence against women and girls (VAWG), girls’ education, and women’s economic empowerment. Hon. Tikyaa also urged participants to highlight initiatives and organizations working towards a safer, just, and equitable society for all in the state, assuring women journalists of the government’s unwavering support.
In conclusion, Comrade Elizabeth Achagh urged all participants to take the training seriously, recognizing it as a valuable opportunity for professional growth and advancement.
Signed
Bridget Tarker
Head of Centre
Federal Information Centre, Makurdi
