BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has sealed a deal with Plan International to empower women, girl-child and promote gender equality in Nigeria.
Part of the deal will be attained through advocacy, capacity-building initiatives, and quality journalism, aimed at promoting children's rights.
At the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Plan International in Abuja, the National President of NAWOJ, Aisha Ibrahim informed that the partnership will uphold children's rights, and support vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities.
"Today, we gather at a pivotal moment in our journey towards empowering women and children, a moment that underscores our commitment to advocate for gender equality and the rights of every child.
"As an organisation, NAWOJ actively engages in advocacy on societal and humanitarian issues, particularly focusing on Persons of Concern (POCs), including Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVCs), victims of Sexual and Gender-based Violence (GBV), and polio eradication awareness campaign.
"This partnership is not merely a formality; it is a declaration of our united vision—a vision that seeks to create a world where children and girls can thrive, where their voices are heard, and where their rights are upheld," she said.
The president noted that Plan International had been at the forefront of advancing children's rights and equality for girls, even as NAWOJ commits to applying the important mission.
She added: "Through this collaborative framework on the ASPIRE project, we will implement strategic capacity-building initiatives designed to empower local women rights and youth-led organisations and enhance their skills.
"We also recognise that the media plays a crucial role in shaping narratives and influencing public perception. By leveraging our media platforms and professional networks, we will elevate the voices of these organisations by ensuring that their messages resonate far and wide."
Ibrahim assured that NAWOJ and Plan International will join forces to dismantle the barriers that prevent women and girls from realising their full potential.
The Country Director of Plan International, Charles Usie was delighted over the partnership, which he believed would lead to greater achievement on gender equality.
Usie, who was represented by the Director of Program Quality and Influencing, Helen Idiong commended NAWOJ for its commitment over the years at amplifying the voices of women and girls and strengthening children's rights' issues.
"We are child rights organisations and we are very particular about getting equality for girls, women’s rights organisations and youth-led organisations, to women journalists. No one can tell a woman's story better than women themselves."
The national president was accompanied by national officers from Zone D and NAWOJ FCT executive members.
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