By Sharon Akuboh
The National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has commenced its 2026 National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, with discussions focusing on the development of the association, unity among members, peace and the proposed permanent national secretariat in Abuja.
Declaring the meeting open at the Presidential Banquet Hall in Birnin Kebbi, Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Senator Abubakar Umar Tafida, expressed the state government’s readiness to support NAWOJ in its efforts to complete its proposed national secretariat.
Tafida said the government would continue to work with journalists, particularly women journalists, in recognition of their contributions to national development, peacebuilding and public enlightenment.
He described the NEC meeting as an important platform for women journalists to assess the activities of the association, deliberate on issues affecting members and the media profession, and develop strategies that would advance the interests of women journalists and contribute to society.
According to him, the Kebbi State Government recognises the role of journalists in promoting good governance, accountability, development and peaceful coexistence.
The Deputy Governor also acknowledged the contributions of women journalists to the media industry, noting that they continue to play significant roles despite the professional and personal challenges associated with the journalism profession.
Speaking at the occasion, NAWOJ National Chairperson, Aishatu Ibrahim, described the NEC meeting as more than a routine gathering, stressing that it provided an opportunity for members to reflect on the association’s journey, deliberate on key issues and take decisions aimed at strengthening the organisation.
Ibrahim expressed appreciation to the Kebbi State Government and people for hosting the NEC meeting, saying the gesture demonstrated recognition of the contributions of women journalists to development, peace, accountability and good governance.
She also drew attention to NAWOJ’s plan to establish a permanent national secretariat in Abuja, seeking the support of the Kebbi State Government and other stakeholders towards the realisation of the project.
The National Chairperson disclosed that the association had acquired land for the proposed secretariat and had commenced efforts to mobilise financial support for its construction.
Also speaking, NAWOJ National Secretary, Wasila Ladan, said the promotion of peace, stability and harmony within the association had remained one of the priorities of the current administration.
Ladan explained that the leadership had adopted dialogue, consultation and an open-door approach in addressing differences within the association, with the objective of ensuring that members remained part of the decision-making process.
She added that the NEC meeting was also being used to strengthen collaboration among the National Secretariat, the association’s zones and state chapters.
According to her, another important item on the agenda is the inauguration of an electoral committee ahead of the association’s forthcoming general election.
The Kebbi NEC meeting therefore provides NAWOJ with an opportunity to review its activities, strengthen internal collaboration and consider initiatives aimed at advancing the professional interests and welfare of women journalists across Nigeria.