The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has called for deeper institutional collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to strengthen civic education, combat misinformation and promote inclusive democratic participation in Nigeria.
The NAWOJ National Chairperson, Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim Kwaya-Bura, made the call during a courtesy visit by a delegation of the association to the Director-General of NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu.
Speaking during the visit, she said the engagement was also an opportunity to present a strategic partnership proposal aimed at improving citizen engagement, particularly around elections.
She noted that elections must go beyond routine democratic exercises to processes that are widely understood, trusted and actively owned by citizens, stressing that orientation, education and citizen engagement are essential to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic culture.
The NAWOJ Chairperson proposed a joint NOA–NAWOJ initiative to focus on capacity building and training for journalists and community mobilisers, civic and voter education, combating misinformation and disinformation, and promoting peaceful electoral participation.
Other areas include the development of simplified civic education materials in local languages, as well as nationwide media campaigns to promote unity, inclusivity and informed voting.
She added that the initiative is expected to serve as a pilot programme ahead of upcoming electoral cycles, with measurable impact across states.
The NAWOJ Chairperson emphasised the need for inclusive governance, stating that women, youths and marginalised groups must be encouraged not only to vote but also to contest elective positions.
She advocated sustained national dialogue on greater female representation in governance, including special legislative seats for women, describing representation as a fundamental right.
In his remarks, the NOA Director-General, Issa-Onilu, commended NAWOJ for its contributions to responsible journalism, civic awareness and democratic accountability over the years.
He described the association as a critical partner in national development and noted that its role in civic education, gender advocacy and ethical media practice has strengthened Nigeria’s democratic space.
Issa-Onilu said the proposed collaboration is timely, especially as efforts continue to deepen democratic participation and address challenges of misinformation and civic disengagement.
He reiterated the Agency’s commitment to value reorientation, civic education and national identity building, adding that NOA is ready to work with NAWOJ https://www.cfga.gov.mn/ in developing sustainable programmes that promote national unity, responsible communication and informed citizen participation.
Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening public understanding of governance processes and expanding civic education outreach across the country.
They expressed confidence that the partnership would help build a more informed citizenry and strengthen trust in democratic institutions while promoting inclusive and participatory democracy in Nigeria.http://exam.iau.edu.bd/