BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Dr Mariya Mahmoud has praised female journalists' for their massive contributions in addressing insecurity.
This was even as she described female journalists as critical stakeholders in the fight against insecurity, adding that their work extends beyond reporting.
Mahmoud, stated this at the inaugural zonal conference of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) Zone D (North Central) on Thursday in Abuja, with the theme: "Curbing Insecurity: The Role of Female Journalists in National Security."
“This conference marks a significant milestone—not just in the advancement of female journalists–but in the broader push for inclusive, ethical, and impactful journalism in our country,” she said.
Mahmoud applauded the historic nature of the conference, adding that it was organised at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with multifaceted security challenges including terrorism, banditry, cyber threats, and misinformation.
“As women, professionals, and storytellers, you hold a unique position in shaping narratives, amplifying the voices of the vulnerable, and fostering national unity. You are often the voice for the voiceless and a beacon of hope in communities affected by violence,” she emphasised.
She highlighted the challenges faced by female journalists such as safety risks and gender-based harassment, as well as limited representation in decision-making platforms.
Mahmoud was optimistic that the confab would serve as a clarion call to address the challenges through policy reforms, training, advocacy, and a united front.
She listed several steps undertaken by Barrister Nyesom Wike-led FCT Administration to combat insecurity.
They are improved collaboration among security agencies, increased investment in surveillance technology, enhanced intelligence-sharing, and the establishment of joint task force operations for rapid threat response.
In addition, she cited infrastructure improvements such as the installation of street lights, road rehabilitation, and urban renewal projects—as part of a broader strategy to eliminate criminal hideouts and improve patrol access.
The Zonal Vice President of NAWOJ, zone D, Mrs. Chizoba Ogbeche noted that the role of female journalists in national security in Nigeria is significant, multifaceted, and evolving.
She maintained that the North-Central comprising– Kwara, Kogi, Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, and the FCT– is taunted by barrage of security challenges, which brings to fore the role of female journalists in mitigating the crisis.
Ogbeche disclosed that female journalists played a crucial role in uncovering and reporting on Boko Haram insurgency, banditry and kidnappings, military and police human rights abuses, among other social vices.
According to her: "Their storytelling brings balance and diversity to security coverage, ensuring more inclusive national conversations."
Ogbeche requested for collaboration with the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and academia to improve indepth reporting and accurate presentation of facts.
The conference attracted delegates across the North Central zone and served as a platform for engagement on the intersection of media, gender, and national security.
This was contained in a statement by the Special Adviser Media to FCT Minister of State, Austine Elemue on Thursday in Abuja.
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