The Lagos State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, has elected Mrs Jumoke Johnson of the Voice of Nigeria, VON, as its new Chairperson, marking a notable milestone in the leadership of the Association.
Mrs Johnson emerged winner following the expiration of the two-term tenure of the immediate past Chairperson, Dr. Adeola Ekine.
The election was held on Thursday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja, and was attended by past leaders of the association, media professionals, academics, and female journalists from various media organisations.
In her acceptance speech, Mrs. Johnson commended Dr. Ekine for her impactful leadership.
She said; “I want to thank Dr. Adeola Ekine for repositioning the union over the past six years. She has taken the association to an enviable height, and we will do all within our capacity to build on that foundation.”
She reaffirmed her commitment to promoting professionalism, unity, and the welfare of women journalists in the state
Mrs. Johnson assured members that her manifesto, titled “FAME,” was designed to reposition NAWOJ by opening doors of opportunity for all members.
“As our campaign spelt out, FAME, we will step out with focus that is trained on advocacy and advancement, mentorship, media innovation, and empowerment by tapping into welfare opportunities, for Lagos NAWOJIANS, but, all these great ideas, will only be possible through your support.
“This manifesto was crafted to ensure that no member is left behind. We believe it will bring meaningful progress as we hit the ground running, “ she explained.
The broadcaster expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the past leaders of NAWOJ, VON management staff, colleagues, Lagos NUJ Executive members, as well as her friends and family, for their unwavering support.
Representing the NUJ Chairman, Mr. Adeleye Ajayi, the Vice Chairman, Mr. Philip Nwosu, congratulated the new NAWOJ executives.
He said; “We congratulate the newly elected NAWOJ Exco, led by Mrs. Jumoke Johnson. We believe the union will advance under her leadership.
“We also urge the leadership to foster unity among members and initiate impactful programmes that will set the association on the right course. Challenges will come, but with unity, they can be overcome.”
Also speaking at the event, the immediate past Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Olumide Sogunle, commended Dr. Ekine for her dedication and contributions to NAWOJ.
“Her commitment and hard work drew my attention to the association. I urge the new executives to remain guided by their conscience.
“You can’t satisfy everyone, but do your best, there is plenty of work ahead,” he advised.
Other elected members of the NAWOJ Lagos Executive Council include; Ms. Anu Thomas of the Lagos Information Chapel as Secretary, Ms. Omolola Olamijulo of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) as Treasurer, and Ms. Abiola Adaramoye of Radio Lagos/Eko FM as Financial Secretary.
The newly elected officials pledged their commitment to the association, promising a more effective, inclusive, and well-coordinated administration.
The vacant positions on the Executive council would be filled within 90 days, in accordance with the Association’s guidelines.
The NAWOJ B-Zone Vice Chairperson, Mrs. Adeola Adekunle supervised the election and also administered the oath of office to the newly elected Executives.
Mercy Chukwudiebere