By Gabriel Ameh
The Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, has received a unanimous vote of confidence and endorsement for a second term from members of the association.
The endorsement was announced at the chapter’s congress held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, in Abuja, where approximately 130 members gathered to review the association’s activities, achievements and future direction.
The motion for the vote of confidence and second-term endorsement was moved by a former NAWOJ FCT Chairperson, Comrade Joy Idam, and seconded by the Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCTA Chapel, Comrade Ngozi Ufomba.
Members unanimously adopted the motion through a voice vote, expressing confidence in Ikpang’s leadership and her efforts to strengthen the association’s visibility, unity and professional development.
Ikpang assumed office on February 10, 2024, and her current tenure is expected to end in February 2027.
Partnerships and Professional Development
Among the key achievements highlighted by the administration is a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC).
The partnership is aimed at promoting media development, research, innovation and national development, while providing opportunities for members to access specialised training and capacity-building programmes.
It is also expected to strengthen female journalists’ understanding and reporting of science, technology, entrepreneurship and Nigeria’s industrial development.
Cancer Screening Initiative for Women Journalists
The administration also partnered with the Federal Ministry of Health and Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, to organise a cancer screening initiative targeting approximately 200 female journalists.
The programme focused on preventive healthcare, early detection and improved access to essential health services for women journalists.
Expanding Women’s Participation and Leadership
On women’s empowerment and gender inclusion, the chapter has sustained engagements aimed at promoting women’s rights, professional advancement and participation in leadership.
In collaboration with the German Embassy and NUJ Utako, NAWOJ FCT organised activities to mark International Women’s Day, providing platforms for discussions on inclusion, equality and women’s advancement.
In 2024, the association extended its International Women’s Day activities to Garki Village, Abuja, where rural women participated in conversations on empowerment, development and their rights.
The chapter also engaged wives of traditional rulers in the Abuja traditional kingdom during its 2025 International Women’s Day activities, focusing on community development, women’s health and family welfare.
In 2026, the association took its advocacy to Utako Market, where it organised a public awareness programme on vaccine acceptance, addressing misconceptions and encouraging informed health decisions among market women.
Maternal Health and Child Nutrition Advocacy
The Ikpang-led administration also undertook advocacy programmes on exclusive breastfeeding, maternal health, nutrition and appropriate infant and young child feeding practices.
Through engagements with relevant agencies and development partners, the chapter worked to improve access to reliable health information, particularly among women and families in underserved communities.
School Outreach on Menstrual Hygiene and Safety
Another area of intervention was the partnership with Little Angels to organise hygiene and menstrual health awareness campaigns in junior secondary schools.
The programme educated students on personal hygiene, menstrual health and gender-based violence (GBV). Sanitary pads were also distributed to support the students.
The initiative was designed to promote dignity, safety, health awareness and informed decision-making among young girls.
Focus on Continuity and Members’ Welfare
Following the unanimous endorsement, the Ikpang-led administration is expected to sustain its focus on members’ welfare, professional development, strategic partnerships, women’s empowerment and community service.
The November 14 congress has provided a significant show of support for the current leadership as it approaches the end of its tenure in February 2027.
However, the endorsement represents members’ support for a second term and should be distinguished from a formal electoral victory or confirmation of re-election.
For NAWOJ FCT, the congress highlighted the importance members place on leadership continuity, unity and service to the journalism profession and wider society.
Source: Sharon Akuboh.
