The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has hailed the role of female journalists in curbing insecurity in the country, describing them as critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s battle against insecurity.
Highlighting the unique role of women journalists, Mahmoud noted that their work extends beyond reportage.
The minister made this assertion at the inaugural zonal conference of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D, held in Abuja, just as she applauded the historic nature of the gathering.
“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.
While commending the conference theme: “Curbing insecurity: The role of female journalists in national security,” Mahmoud stressed that the conference came at a time when Nigeria is grappling 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.
Also, Mahmoud addressed the challenges that female journalists face, ranging from safety risks and gender-based harassment to limited representation in decision-making platforms.
“Let this conference be a rallying call to address those challenges through policy reforms, training, advocacy, and a united front,” she urged.
The minister outlined several strategic initiatives by the FCT administration to combat insecurity, to include 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.
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In addition, she cited infrastructural 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.
Earlier, the zonal Vice President, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D, Mrs. Chizoba Ogbeche, noted that the role of female journalists in national security in Nigeria is significant, multifaceted, and evolving
She emphasised that the North-Central comprising Kwara, Kogi, Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau States, and the FCT, have serious security challenges, and it brings to the fore what role the female journalists could play in mitigating the situation and contribute to de-escalating the situation.
Mrs. Ogbeche further noted that female journalists have played a crucial role in uncovering and reporting on the Boko Haram insurgency, banditry and kidnappings, military and police human rights abuses, amongst other social vices.
“Their storytelling brings balance and diversity to security coverage, ensuring more inclusive national conversations,” she said.
Mrs. Ogbeche, therefore, called for collaboration with civil society organisations and the academia in fostering partnerships to improve indepth reportage and accuracy.
The conference drew delegates from across the North Central zone and served as a platform for engagement on the intersection of media, gender, and national security.
