NAWOJ Forges Partnership with Edo Ministry of Women Affairs for Advocacy and Development

NAWOJ Forges Partnership with Edo Ministry of Women Affairs for Advocacy and Development

Habiba Sam 

In a significant move towards strengthening advocacy for women and vulnerable groups, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Edo State Chapter, paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, on March 3, 2026. 

The delegation, led by the dynamic Chairperson, Comrade Habiba Aniekan Sam, sought to formally introduce the newly elected executive members and forge a robust partnership with the Ministry.

 The atmosphere was one of mutual respect and anticipation as Comrade Sam addressed the distinguished officials and her esteemed NAWOJ exco members.

Comrade Habiba Aniekan Sam opened her speech by expressing profound gratitude for the warm reception, which she hailed as a clear indicator of the Commissioner's dedication to collaboration and progress. 

She emphasized NAWOJ's unwavering commitment to professionalism, advocacy, and service, values that form the bedrock of the association. 

"We look forward to working closely with your office and other stakeholders to advance the cause of women and vulnerable groups in our society," 

Comrade Sam articulated, setting a collaborative tone for the visit. She then warmly congratulated Hon. Abdallah on her appointment, acknowledging her impactful work, particularly highlighting the commendable rescue and rehabilitation efforts concerning a mentally challenged woman's baby. 

This act of compassion, Sam noted, served as a shining example of the Commissioner's dedication to humanity and social justice, resonating deeply with NAWOJ's own advocacy.

 Comrade Sam detailed NAWOJ's mission, which includes promoting the welfare of women journalists, amplifying women's voices, and advancing gender-sensitive reporting, she underscored the association's goal to empower its members and contribute meaningfully to issues affecting women, children, and vulnerable groups.

 She pointed to the upcoming International Women's Day as a prime opportunity for joint programmes that would celebrate women's achievements and confront the challenges they face. 

The Chairperson concluded her address by reiterating the association's eagerness to build a productive relationship and work together for the greater good of women and society at large, expressing anticipation for continued collaboration.

In response, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Joy Irenosen Ihensekhien, who received the delegation on behalf of Commissioner Eugenia Abdallah, lauded NAWOJ for its supportive spirit and profound dedication to women-related causes. 

Mrs. Ihensekhien praised the women journalists for their critical role in societal development and acknowledged their efforts in highlighting issues pertinent to women and children. 

She assured the delegation of the Ministry’s readiness to actively collaborate with NAWOJ, emphasizing the importance of such partnerships in achieving their collective goals for women's empowerment and social development within Edo State. 

The Permanent Secretary conveyed the Commissioner's appreciation for NAWOJ's visit and commitment to fostering a strong alliance.

The visit concluded with both parties expressing optimism for a fruitful partnership. NAWOJ's proactive step in seeking collaboration aligns perfectly with the Ministry's mandate, paving the way for joint initiatives that promise to bring significant positive changes to the lives of women and vulnerable populations across Edo State.

 The exchange reaffirmed the power of synergy between professional bodies and government agencies in driving social progress.