By Gloria Josiah
The Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, has commended the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter, for its contributions to the journalism profession, particularly in amplifying the voices of women, in the FCT.
During NAWOJ FCT’s courtesy visit to NAN headquarters in Abuja, Ali acknowledged the vital role of female journalists in shaping the narratives and strengthening media professionalism. “NAWOJ has amplified the voices of professional women in journalism, which we apparently never had in the past. So once again, congratulations,” he said.
Ali emphasized the media’s crucial role in national development and expressed NAN’s readiness to collaborate with NAWOJ FCT. “Certainly, the media plays a very vital role, and we look forward to collaborating with you at the National Women’s Day,” he added.
Speaking on workplace conditions, Ali reaffirmed NAN’s commitment to fostering a supportive work environment for journalists. “We try as much as possible to make our workplace very conducive. We provide the right work environment, in addition to giving training and re-training,” he noted.
Earlier, Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, Bassey Ita Ikpang, acknowledged NAN’s role in promoting inclusivity in media and providing a platform for women journalists. “Since I assumed office as the Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, one of my primary objectives has been to ensure that the voices of women journalists in the FCT are heard, acknowledged, and celebrated. NAN has played a key role in making that possible,” she declared.
The visit aimed to strengthen NAWOJ FCT’s partnership with NAN ahead of the upcoming International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 celebration on March 26. The theme for this year is “Accelerate Action”, with a sub-theme, “Amplifying the Voices of Rural Women.”
Ikpang expressed her hope that NAN will join hands with NAWOJ FCT in making this year’s IWD a memorable and impactful occasion. “Together, we can help amplify the voices of rural women, giving them the platform they deserve in the media,” she added.
She reaffirmed NAWOJ FCT’s commitment to deepening its collaboration with NAN and promoting women in journalism. Ikpang also expressed appreciation for NAN’s support during and after the association’s 2024 election. “This visit is an opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to NAN for its unwavering support, particularly during our election period. Your commitment to providing a platform for NAWOJ’s work has not gone unnoticed, and we deeply appreciate the visibility and voice you have helped amplify,” she said.