By Gloria Ikibah
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, has urged stakeholders to take decisive steps toward gender equality and empowerment of rural women.
Chairman of NAWOJ-FCT, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, made this call in a statement marking the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD), with the heme “Accelerate Action.”
Ikpang eemphasised the critical role women play in shaping the nation, from leadership in politics and business to innovation in health and technology.
While acknowledging the progress made in advancing women’s rights, she highlighted the persistent challenges, particularly for women in rural areas, who continue to face limited access to education, economic opportunities, healthcare, and political representation.
“This year, with our sub-theme, ‘Amplifying the Voice of Rural Women,’ we underscore the urgent need to bridge gender gaps, uplift rural women, and create a society where all women have equal opportunities to thrive,” Ikpang said.
The NAWOJ-FCT Chairperson who called on government agencies to implement and enforce policies that promote gender equality, urging them to provide sustainable support for rural women, also appealed to traditional and community leaders to eliminate harmful cultural practices that hinder women’s progress.
Ikpang further urged corporate organisations and development partners to invest in skill acquisition, entrepreneurship programmes, and healthcare services for women in underserved communities.
She further encouraged the media to continue amplifying women’s voices and advocating for social justice.
As journalists and advocates for women’s rights, NAWOJ FCT reaffirmed its commitment to using media platforms to highlight gender issues, push for policies that empower women, and hold stakeholders accountable.
“NAWOJ FCT remains steadfast in ensuring that women’s issues remain a priority. Through strategic partnerships, media advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives, we will continue to push for the empowerment of women across all sectors,” Ikpang stated.
As the world marks International Women’s Day 2025, she urged all stakeholders to move beyond conversations and take concrete steps toward achieving gender equality.
“Together, let’s accelerate action and amplify the voices of rural women,” she added.
