By Sarah NEGEDU
Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has hailed Nigerian female journalists for their role in the ongoing fight against insecurity, noting that their influence extends beyond news reporting to shaping national narratives and fostering unity.
Speaking at the inaugural zonal conference of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Zone D (North Central), held in Abuja, Mahmoud underscored the importance of ethical, inclusive, and impactful journalism in addressing the country’s complex security challenges.
“This conference marks a significant milestone, not just in the advancement of female journalists, but in the broader push for inclusive, ethical, and impactful journalism in our country,” she said.
Themed “Curbing Insecurity: The Role of Female Journalists in National Security,” the conference convened female media professionals from across the North-Central states, including Kwara, Kogi, Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, and the FCT.
Mahmoud stressed that the conference was timely, as the nation continues to grapple with terrorism, banditry, cyber threats, and misinformation.
“As women, professionals, and storytellers, you hold a unique position in shaping narratives, amplifying the voices of the vulnerable, and fostering national unity. You are often the voice for the voiceless and a beacon of hope in communities affected by violence,” she emphasized.
She also acknowledged some of the challenges faced by women in journalism, ranging from safety risks and gender-based harassment to underrepresentation in leadership positions.
“Let this conference be a rallying call to address those challenges through policy reforms, training, advocacy, and a united front,” she urged.
Highlighting the FCT Administration’s security efforts under the leadership of Nyesom Wike, the Minister listed key initiatives such as strengthened inter-agency collaboration, increased investment in surveillance technology, improved intelligence sharing, and the formation of joint task forces for rapid response.
She also noted that infrastructural upgrades like the installation of street lights, road rehabilitation, and urban renewal projects, are part of broader efforts to deny criminals operational space and improve security presence.
Earlier, the Zonal Vice President of NAWOJ, Zone D, Mrs. Chizoba Ogbeche, emphasized the evolving and multifaceted role of female journalists in national security.
She said the challenges in the North-Central zone demand more proactive media engagement, especially from female journalists who have historically contributed to reporting insurgency, kidnappings, and human rights violations.
According to her, “Their storytelling brings balance and diversity to security coverage, ensuring more inclusive national conversations.”
Ogbeche called for stronger collaboration with civil society organisations and the academic community to enhance the depth and accuracy of security reporting.
The conference served as a platform for strategic engagement on media, gender, and national security, drawing delegates from across the region.
