 has organised its maiden Women Security Summit and Award Ceremony at Transcorp Hilton){kind=link}
By: Muhammad Jalal
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has organised its maiden Women Security Summit and Award Ceremony at Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja with the theme, “Strategic Role of Women in Strengthening National Security through Leadership, Innovation and Collaborative Partnership.”
Addressing participants, the National Chairperson of NAWOJ, Hajia Aishatu Ibrahim, said the event was not merely the beginning of another conference but marked the birth of a national platform dedicated to celebrating excellence, promoting dialogue, strengthening partnerships, and advancing the role of women in peace, security, and national development.
She said the participants’ presence reflected a shared belief that sustainable peace and security could only be achieved when women are recognised, empowered, and given a seat at the decision-making table.
Ibrahim noted that for nearly four decades, NAWOJ had remained steadfast in promoting professionalism, defending democracy, amplifying the voices of women and vulnerable groups, and using journalism as a tool for national development.
According to her, since assuming office, her administration has focused on restoring unity, strengthening the association, and building strategic partnerships that continue to create opportunities for women journalists across Nigeria.
“We firmly believe that collaboration is the key to sustainable development, and this summit is a reflection of that conviction,” she said.
The NAWOJ president also disclosed that one of the greatest achievements of her administration was securing a permanent home for the association.
She recalled that after almost 38 years, NAWOJ now owns land and has obtained its Certificate of Occupancy.
According to her, the achievement represents more than acquiring property, describing it as a symbol of institutional stability and a lasting legacy for future generations of women journalists.
She said the association’s next goal is to construct a befitting national secretariat that will serve as a centre for journalism excellence, leadership development, research, innovation, mentorship, and professional training.
“We therefore invite governments, development partners, corporate organisations, and friends of the media to join us in bringing this vision to reality,” she added.
Ibrahim further explained that women across Nigeria continue to serve with distinction as military personnel, police officers, intelligence operatives, correctional officers, journalists, humanitarian workers, community leaders, and peace advocates, yet many of their remarkable contributions often go unnoticed.
She appreciated the association’s partners, sponsors, development organisations, planning committee members, volunteers, and everyone who contributed to the success of the historic event.
In her remarks, the First Lady of Jigawa State, Hadiza Umar Namadi, who was among the award recipients, said she accepted the honour with a deep sense of gratitude and humility.
She urged women to join hands in strengthening awareness within their communities, supporting survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, restoring their dignity and hope, and helping them rebuild their lives.
Namadi also called on parents to build stronger relationships with their children and guide them properly. She further urged state governments to prioritise the implementation of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) (VAPP) Act in their respective states and communities.
Also speaking, the Security Adviser to the Yobe State Governor, retired General Dahiru Abdulsalam, attributed the country’s security challenges largely to moral decadence and indiscipline.
He said the summit had highlighted the vital role women play in addressing insecurity, noting that women have continued to contribute significantly to national security efforts.
He encouraged them to continue supporting their families, especially while their spouses are on the frontlines.
The retired general also encouraged more women to enlist in the nation’s security agencies, particularly in the uniformed services.
The high point of the event was the presentation of awards to women who have distinguished themselves through exceptional service, leadership, and contributions to security and national development in Nigeria.
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