Abuja: The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, has announced a collaboration with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) to foster inclusive economic empowerment of women and bolster national development. Mrs. Bassey Ita-Ikpang, Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, revealed this initiative during a courtesy visit to the Director-General of RMRDC, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ita-Ikpang highlighted the media’s pivotal role as a catalyst for national development and social transformation while advocating for the rights of women and children. She stated that the association, comprising approximately 350 practising female journalists from various media platforms in the FCT, is dedicated to promoting professionalism and advocating for women’s and children’s rights.
Ita-Ikpang pointed out that NAWOJ leverages media as a tool for national development, making significant impacts through advocacy, visibility, and capacity building. She recalled the association’s collaboration with the German Embassy during this year’s International Women’s Day for a capacity-building programme.
The chairperson disclosed plans for a grassroots outreach initiative, ‘Marketplace Advocacy,’ scheduled for April 30. This programme aims to raise awareness directly among women at the grassroots, focusing on health, education, and democratic participation in anticipation of the 2027 general elections. Ita-Ikpang explained that the initiative seeks to demystify government policies and encourage active female participation in the electoral process while promoting awareness of health needs.
Ita-Ikpang praised the RMRDC Director-General for his accomplishments, particularly his focus on strengthening local raw materials development and promoting value addition, which she said, has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s industrial growth and reduced import dependency. She noted that the council’s emphasis on research, innovation, and inclusive economic participation aligns with NAWOJ’s core values.
The NAWOJ chairperson announced Ike-Muonso’s selection as a Patron of NAWOJ FCT, citing his leadership and dedication to inclusive development. She expressed optimism that his support would enhance the association’s programmes. She also presented a detailed breakdown of NAWOJ FCT’s activities and budget for the council’s consideration, emphasizing the association’s commitment to a strong partnership with RMRDC.
In response, Ike-Muonso assured NAWOJ of RMRDC’s commitment to advancing industrial growth, promoting local resource utilization, and fostering innovation for sustainable development. He mentioned plans for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NAWOJ to highlight Nigeria’s industrial raw materials and support sustainable growth in the media space. The MoU aims to strengthen the partnership and assist RMRDC in achieving its mandates, especially with the upcoming 2026 African Raw Materials Summit.