The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D, has lauded the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, for her commitment to advancing women’s political empowerment and inclusive representation in Nigeria.
The association gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the minister at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Friday, where it presented her with the “Trailblazer in Women Political Representation” award.
Presenting the award, NAWOJ Vice President, Zone D, Mrs Chizoba Ogbeche, said the honour was in recognition of the minister’s efforts in promoting women’s leadership and expanding opportunities for women in politics and governance.
She noted that the minister’s appointment was welcomed with high expectations by ministry staff and women groups across the country, particularly in the areas of economic and socio-political empowerment.
Ogbeche also commended the minister for her handling of the case involving Walida Abdullahi, a young woman at the centre of controversy, and for prioritising the safety and well-being of the young mother and her baby.
She assured the minister of NAWOJ’s commitment to responsible journalism, especially in reporting sensitive issues affecting women and girls.
“On behalf of women journalists, we apologise for any development that may have portrayed the media in a bad light. Every girl-child has the right to life, education and protection, as the Honourable Minister has consistently emphasised,” she said.
Ogbeche explained that the award was earlier announced during the Zone’s 65th Independence celebration in Lafia, Nasarawa State, but members resolved to present it to the minister in person.
Responding, Suleiman-Ibrahim thanked the association for the recognition and reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening collaboration with women journalists in advancing national development goals.
She urged the media to exercise restraint in covering sensitive cases, particularly by avoiding undue exposure of vulnerable individuals, including the publication of photographs.
The minister also called on NAWOJ to amplify the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, including the declaration of 2026 as the “Year of Family and Social Development,” which she described as a milestone for women and families across Nigeria.
She said the engagement underscored the ministry’s readiness to partner with women journalists as strategic allies in promoting women’s rights, political participation and family development nationwide.