By Justina Auta
The National President, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim, has urged women to take decisive leadership steps ahead of the 2027 general elections to boost participation in governance.
Ibrahim made the call during a marketplace advocacy outreach in Wuse Market, Abuja organised by NAWOJ FCT emphasising the urgency of mobilising women at grassroots for political inclusion.
She emphasised the need to end women’s marginalisation in decision making, declaring they would no longer be “mere participants in politics” but would influence outcomes, lead actively, and win elective positions.
“We say no more silence on gender-based violence, no more ignorance about health and reproductive rights.
“No more exclusion from economic opportunities across the value chain.
“Certainly, no more absence of women in leadership, especially as we approach the 2027 elections,” she emphasised, reaffirming commitment to stronger female representation in Nigeria’s democratic processes nationwide going forward.
She assured that NAWOJ would sustain advocacy efforts to ensure women were informed, empowered, and fully represented, insisting that women were no longer asking for space but were ready to claim it.
“I call on every woman not to underestimate your voice. Do not surrender your rights. Do not sit out the process that determines your future. “Let’s organise, mobilise, participate and vote.
“This is because when women rise with purpose, the system cannot stand against them,” she said.
Mrs Bassey Ita-Ikpang, Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, said the initiative targeted grassroots empowerment directly for women nationwide.
“As women journalists, we go beyond reporting we advocate. We use our voices to bring attention to issues that affect women and society.
”That is why we are focusing on critical areas such as vaccine awareness, women’s rights and empowerment, reproductive health, and women’s participation in politics,” she said.
Ms. Grace Ike, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists FCT Council, also emphasised the need to educate electorate on civic rights and responsibilities while ensuring improved access to essential healthcare services.
Some women at the event commended organisers, noting the initiative improved their knowledge of reproductive health and benefits of participating in electoral processes, while encouraging transparent, inclusive, and fair elections nationwide.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Abiemwense Moru
