The First Lady of Nasarawa State, Hajiya Silifat Abdullahi Sule, has commended the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Nasarawa State Chapter, for its dedication to responsible journalism, women’s empowerment, and developmental advocacy.
Speaking in Lafia at an event marking the executive committee’s first year in office and the unveiling of the Compendium of Nasarawa Amazons, the First Lady urged female journalists to uphold professional ethics to drive growth and state development.
She was represented by the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nasarawa State Council, Comrade Juliana Ofoku.
Describing the theme “Celebrating Our Heritage, Honouring Excellence and Inspiring the Future” as timely and essential, Hajiya Sule noted that preserving cultural heritage and honoring excellence inspires younger generations to contribute meaningfully to society.
Upon receiving a recognition award at the event, she dedicated the honor to the women of Nasarawa State, reiterating her resolve to support women-focused causes and pledging her continued partnership as Patron of NAWOJ.
Meanwhile, the State Chairperson of NAWOJ, Comrade Mercy Tanze-Zabadi, welcomed guests and thanked the state government and the First Lady for their support.
She emphasised the duty of women journalists to give voice to the voiceless, defend human rights, expose community issues, and promote good governance.
Zabadi also appealed to stakeholders for assistance in upgrading office infrastructure, acquiring modern work tools, and expanding capacity-building programmes.
Delivering the keynote address on “The Role of Women Journalists in Strengthening Democracy and Sustainable Development,” former NAWOJ State Chairperson Mrs. Veronica Ogbole charged members to safeguard professional integrity, embrace digital tools, strengthen mentorship frameworks, and document women’s achievements.
Goodwill messages and remarks from the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Represented by Amina Wamba urged female journalists to use their platforms to champion girl-child education, promote vocational skills, and project development messages to rural areas.
Representing the Special Adviser to the Governor, Dr. Justina Anjide Kotso, Mrs. Tina Cyril called on journalists to highlight underreported grassroots initiatives and increase coverage of GBV cases to ensure justice serves as a deterrent.
NAWOJ National President Comrade Aisha Ibrahim, represented by the Vice President Zone D Comrade Chizoba Okonkwo-Ogbeche praised the chapter’s trailblazing initiatives and urged members to maintain unity.
The event concluded with the official presentation of the Compendium of Nasarawa Amazons and the presentation of recognition awards to distinguished personalities, partners, and former NAWOJ leaders for their contributions to society.
