The Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Mrs. Jumoke Johnson, has urged women journalists across the country to consistently pursue knowledge and continuous learning, stressing that professionalism in journalism requires broad understanding and constant skills upgrade.
Mrs. Johnson made the call in Lagos while addressing members at the first NAWOJ Congress for the year 2026.
She emphasised that journalists must “know something about everything” in order to remain relevant and credible, especially in today’s fast-evolving digital environment.
Commending the prevailing peace and unity within NAWOJ, particularly in Lagos State, the Chairperson said harmony within the association has been instrumental to its recent achievements.
She encouraged members to sustain the culture of understanding, listening to all sides, fact-checking, and objective reporting, noting that knowledge remains a journalist’s strongest asset.
According to her, the digital era demands that journalists constantly update their skills to avoid misinformation that could mislead the public.
“I am grateful for the unity, peace and stability among women journalists in Lagos State, and I hope it continues. Knowledge is power and the key thing that will distinguish you. As journalists, you must know something about everything and move with the pace of this digital era,” she said.
Mrs. Johnson highlighted several milestones recorded by NAWOJ Lagos, attributing them to teamwork and collective commitment.
Among these achievements are the launch of the NAWOJ Lagos website, which she described as a platform to showcase the association’s activities and identity, and the introduction of the Chapel Champions initiative.
She explained that the initiative has improved coordination and member mobilisation across chapels, contributing to the high turnout at the congress.
She also announced the launch of the NAWOJ Iconic Woman of the Month, an initiative designed to celebrate women making significant impact in Lagos State and beyond.
According to her, honourees will be recognised monthly, with a grand celebration scheduled for the end-of-year gala.
Growth Activities
Looking ahead, the Chairperson disclosed that the association has developed a comprehensive calendar of activities for the year, including NAWOJ Lagos and Breastfeeding Week, Cancer Awareness Month programmes, International Women’s Day celebrations, and other advocacy-driven engagements.
She called on members to remain committed and actively participate in all planned activities.
Mrs. Johnson further appealed to the government, corporate organizations, and well-meaning Nigerians to partner and support NAWOJ in executing its programmes.
“We are looking forward to strong partnerships and sponsorship opportunities to enable us execute these programmes, share value and create meaningful impact,” she said.
In her remarks, the immediate past Chairperson of NAWOJ Lagos State, Dr. Adeola Ekine, appealed to the government to consider establishing a housing scheme for journalists, particularly women, with flexible installment payment options in view of the rising cost of accommodation in Nigeria.
She noted that many journalists are facing economic hardship, as their monthly earnings can no longer adequately meet basic needs.
“Journalists need a conducive environment to live in order to do their work effectively. Providing affordable housing for women journalists will significantly reduce their burden and positively affect their families,” she said, urging government intervention.
A guest speaker at the congress, Mr. Olalekan Otu, spoke on the importance of financial literacy for women journalists, describing economic independence as a critical pillar of empowerment.
He encouraged NAWOJ members to develop a strong savings culture to reduce financial vulnerability, particularly as they approach retirement.
Highlights of the congress included lectures and interactive sessions by seasoned women journalists, as well as the celebration of the birthday of the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council.