By Justina Auta, NAN
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, has sought partnership with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) to advance inclusive economic empowerment of women and promote national development.
Mrs Bassey Ita-Ikpang, Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, made this known during a courtesy visit to the Director-General, RMRDC, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Ita-Ikpang, while advocating for the rights of women and children, emphasised the role of media as a tool for national development and social transformation
Ita-Ikpang said the association, which comprises about 350 practising female journalists across print, electronic and new media platforms in the FCT, was committed to promoting professionalism and advocating for the rights of women and children.
She noted that NAWOJ also leverages the media as a tool for national development and social transformation, adding that the association has continued to make meaningful impact through advocacy, visibility and capacity building.
She recalled that as part of activities marking this year’s International Women’s Day, NAWOJ FCT organised a capacity-building programme in collaboration with the German Embassy.
The chairperson further disclosed that the association would hold a grassroots outreach programme on April 30, tagged “Marketplace Advocacy,” aimed at taking awareness directly to women at the grassroots.
She explained that the initiative would focus on health, education and democratic participation, particularly in the build-up to the 2027 general elections.
“It also seeks to simplify government policies and encourage women to actively participate in the electoral process, while promoting awareness of their health needs,” she said.
Ita-Ikpang commended the RMRDC boss for his achievements since assuming office, particularly his commitment to strengthening local raw materials development and promoting value addition.
She said such efforts had contributed significantly to Nigeria’s industrial growth and reducing dependence on imports.
The NAWOJ chairperson added that the council’s emphasis on research, innovation and inclusive economic participation, especially in creating opportunities that empower women, aligned with the association’s core values.
“It is in this regard that we see this visit as a mutually beneficial engagement.
“As media professionals, we are well positioned to amplify the initiatives and impact of your council, ensuring that your programmes receive the visibility they deserve,” she said.
Ita-Ikpang also announced that the association had selected Ike-Muonso as a Patron of NAWOJ FCT, citing his leadership, experience and commitment to inclusive development.
She expressed optimism that his support and guidance would strengthen the association and enhance the success of its upcoming programmes.
The chairperson said NAWOJ FCT had prepared a detailed breakdown of its activities and budget for the council’s consideration, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to collaborate.
She reiterated the association’s commitment to building a strong and impactful partnership with RMRDC for the benefit of women and national development.
Responding, Ike-Muonso, assured the association of the council’s commitment towards advancing industrial growth, promote local resource utilisation and fostering innovation that promote resource efficiency and sustainable development.
He added that the council would sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NAWOJ to amplify Nigeria’s vast industrial raw materials and foster sustainable industrial growth in the media space.
According to him, the MoU would strengthen the partnership and enable RMRDC achieve it’s mandates, especially as it prepares to host the 2026 African Raw Materials Summit in June. (NAN)
