NAWOJ, OHCSF Train 100 Female Journalists, Renew Call for Inclusive Newsrooms

NAWOJ, OHCSF Train 100 Female Journalists, Renew Call for Inclusive Newsrooms

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, in partnership with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), has trained 100 female journalists in Abuja, renewing calls for gender-inclusive newsroom policies, equitable leadership opportunities and continuous professional development.

The one-day capacity-building workshop, held at the NUJ FCT Secretariat, equipped participants with skills in newsroom diversification, editorial influence, leadership development and digital journalism, including mobile reporting, social media optimisation and the use of emerging AI tools.

National Chairperson of NAWOJ, Aisha Ibrahim, stressed that diversity in newsrooms is no longer optional but vital to ensuring media coverage reflects society accurately. She expressed worry that women remain underrepresented in editorial leadership and continue to encounter subtle workplace biases.

Similarly, FCT NAWOJ Chairperson, Bassey Ita Ikpang, said the initiative aims to strengthen and empower a more visible, confident and better-equipped network of female journalists who often balance newsroom pressure, limited recognition and heavy personal responsibilities.

Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, who delivered the keynote address, noted that inclusive media institutions make better decisions and enrich national narratives. She outlined ongoing government reforms promoting merit, digital competence and equitable representation across MDAs, while acknowledging persistent gaps in newsroom leadership.

Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike, described the training as a decisive step against longstanding discrimination, adding that many female journalists still face harassment, unfair assignments and restricted career growth despite their capacity and commitment.