German Embassy, NAWOJ Collaborate to Empower Women Journalists in Nigeria
A one-day capacity-building workshop for selected women journalists in Abuja has been hailed as a crucial step towards strengthening democracy and promoting social change in Nigeria. The event, themed "Empowering Women Journalists for Democratic Governance and Social Change," was organised by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) FCT Chapter in partnership with the German Embassy. The workshop aimed to equip female journalists with skills in investigative reporting, ethical journalism, and leadership, enabling them to shape public discourse and drive social change.
Experts say that empowering women journalists is essential for building an inclusive and resilient democracy. The German Embassy's spokesperson, Felix Haala, commended Nigeria's relatively free media environment, stating that democracy and development cannot thrive without press freedom. Haala noted that when women are empowered and their voices amplified, society benefits significantly. He also highlighted the challenges faced by women in parliament, describing it as a concern.
The workshop formed part of activities marking the 2026 International Women's Day, aimed at strengthening the capacity of women journalists for democratic governance and social change. NAWOJ National President, Hajia Aisha Ibrahim, called for greater inclusivity by ensuring women's access to leadership positions, addressing safety concerns in the line of duty, and eliminating gender bias in newsrooms across the country.
The event has sparked renewed calls for action to promote professionalism, inclusivity, and continuous capacity development for women journalists. The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting professionalism and amplifying women's voices in the media.
The German Embassy's partnership with NAWOJ is a significant step towards promoting women's empowerment and social change in Nigeria. By equipping women journalists with the necessary skills and knowledge, this collaboration has the potential to drive meaningful change in the country's media landscape. However, more needs to be done to address the persistent challenges faced by women in the media, including gender bias and limited leadership opportunities.
