NAWOJ FCT Champions Women’s Health, Security, and Gender Agenda at June Congress.
By Raymond Enoch
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, convened its June Congress in Abuja, spotlighting critical issues affecting women: cancer awareness, insecurity, and gender inequality.
The congress commenced with a poignant focus on cancer awareness. A collaborative effort with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) highlighted the increasing prevalence of cancer in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for early detection and preventive measures. Dame Judith Amaechi, Wife of the Minister of Transport and Founder of the Empowerment Support Initiative, underscored the urgency of addressing cancer, which is rapidly becoming a significant health challenge in the country. She commended NAWOJ for providing a platform to raise awareness and urged greater involvement from individuals and groups to combat the disease .
Insecurity: Urging Proactive Measures
Addressing the escalating security concerns in Nigeria, NAWOJ FCT called on the federal government to implement more proactive strategies to tackle insecurity. The association emphasized the importance of collective action from all sectors of society, including government, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and communities, to create a safer environment for all citizens .
Gender Inequality: Advocating for Equal Opportunities
The congress also focused on gender inequality, advocating for equal opportunities for women in all spheres of life. Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, led discussions on the importance of gender equality as a fundamental human right and a catalyst for sustainable development. She highlighted the need for policies that promote women’s empowerment and ensure their active participation in decision-making processes .
Collaborative Efforts for Empowerment
In a significant move towards empowering rural women, NAWOJ FCT partnered with traditional rulers in the FCT. This collaboration aims to address the unique challenges faced by rural women, including limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The partnership seeks to amplify the voices of rural women and ensure their inclusion in discussions and decisions that affect their lives .
The June Congress organized by NAWOJ FCT served as a platform to address pressing issues impacting women in Nigeria. Through discussions on cancer awareness, insecurity, and gender inequality, the association reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for women’s rights and creating a more equitable society. The collaborative efforts with various stakeholders signify a collective determination to bring about positive change and empower women across the nation.
