By Joy Omagha Idam, Abuja
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has called for greater inclusion of women in Nigeria’s security architecture, describing women as indispensable partners in peacebuilding, conflict prevention and the promotion of national cohesion.
The association made the call in a goodwill message delivered at the National Security Summit organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), where stakeholders gathered to discuss strategies for addressing Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
NAWOJ commended the NUJ for convening the summit at a critical period when the country continues to face threats ranging from insurgency, banditry and kidnapping to communal clashes, cybercrime and other forms of insecurity affecting national stability.
The association noted that while security conversations often focus on military operations, intelligence gathering, law enforcement and technology-driven solutions, the role of women in fostering sustainable peace and security remains largely underappreciated.
According to NAWOJ, women occupy strategic positions within families and communities as mothers, caregivers, educators and community mobilisers, giving them significant influence in shaping values and behaviours that promote peace and stability.
The association stressed that women are uniquely positioned to instill values such as tolerance, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and responsible citizenship in young people, thereby helping to address some of the root causes of insecurity, including violent extremism, cultism, drug abuse and criminality.
NAWOJ further observed that women are often the first to detect signs of radicalisation, criminal tendencies and emerging social tensions within homes and communities, making them valuable contributors to community intelligence gathering and early warning systems.
The association argued that the active involvement of women in peacebuilding initiatives and conflict prevention mechanisms could significantly strengthen efforts to prevent disputes from escalating into major security crises.
Citing global evidence, NAWOJ stated that peace processes and security interventions that include women tend to be more effective, inclusive and sustainable, as women’s experiences and perspectives provide valuable insights into addressing the underlying causes of conflict.
To strengthen national security efforts, the association called for increased representation of women in security-related decision-making at national, state and community levels. It also advocated greater investment in women-led peacebuilding initiatives and deliberate engagement of women in community policing and early warning mechanisms.
NAWOJ further urged stakeholders to provide stronger support for women journalists reporting on security issues, noting that they play a vital role in promoting peace, countering misinformation and amplifying voices advocating reconciliation and national unity.
The association also stressed the need for policies that empower women economically and socially, warning that poverty, marginalisation and exclusion often create conditions that fuel insecurity.
Reaffirming its commitment to responsible journalism and peace advocacy, NAWOJ maintained that national security should not be viewed solely as the responsibility of security agencies, but as a collective obligation requiring the active participation of families, communities and institutions.
“Women, through their unique influence and leadership within society, remain indispensable partners in building a peaceful, secure and prosperous Nigeria,” the association stated.