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NAWOJ Summit: Oba Elegushi Joins Female Journalists To Call For Women’s Empowerment And Inclusion In Governance

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and Oba Saheed Elegushi, who was represented by Alhaji Olanrewaju Bakare have called on the government for empowerment and inclusion of women in governance to promote economic growth.
This was gathered during NAWOJ South-West Zonal Summit held in Lagos on Thursday, 29th August, 2024.
The summit tagged ‘Empowering Women: Driving Good Governance And Economic Growth’, witnessed presence of seasoned journalists from different media houses and a traditional ruler, Oba Saheed Elegushi who was represented by Alhaji Olanrewaju Bakare.
Speaking at the summit, Lagos NAWOJ Chairperson, Mrs Adeola Ekine said the purpose of the summit is aimed at a future where women leadership would be the driving force for good governance and economic prosperity.
Ekine said empowering women is a crucial step towards achieving sustainable development.
NAWOJ Summit: Oba Elegushi Joins Female Journalists To Call For Women’s Empowerment And Inclusion In Governance
She noted that: “Women’s empowerment is not only a matter of equity and fairness but also a key driver of economic progress and good governance.
“When women are empowered, the entire communities thrive, and nations prosper. This is because women bring unique perspectives, innovative solutions, and an inclusive approach to leadership and decision-making“.
Also speaking at the event, National Vice President, NAWOJ South West B Zone, Mrs. Adeola Adekunle said: “Imagine a world where Women’s ideas, talents, and perspectives are valued and utilized to their full potential”. “That is the world we are striving to achieve“.
She said: “When women have access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, they don’t only improve their own lives, but also lift their families and communities“.
She therefore calls on women to work together so they can unlock their potential.
Alhaji Olanrewaju Bakare, who represented Oba Saheed Elegushi said: “ Empowerment is now more than just providing opportunities, it is about creating an environment where women can thrive, lead, and contribute to their community without fear or limitation“.
He concluded that when women are empowered, society will be enriched, and the economy strengthened.
Mrs. Bola Okolie, CEO of BONIX Drinks in her speech said the role of women journalists in shaping public opinion and driving social change cannot be overstated.
She said: “You stand as the vanguard of truth, illuminating issues that others may shy away from, and providing a voice to the voiceless. Yet, while we celebrate your achievements, we must also recognize the challenges that persist.
Barriers to equality in journalism, societal expectations, and the ever-present specter of gender-based violence are hurdles we must collectively overcome”.
“In conclusion, let us continue to champion the cause of women’s empowerment, striving for a future where every woman can realize her full potential and contribute to the growth and development of our society”.
Finally, Former General Secretary Of The Nigerian Guild of Editors, Victoria Ibanga said women’s empowerment is not just about individual success, but about building a collective momentum that drives societal change. By standing up for ourselves, women inadvertently contribute to a larger movement towards equality, good governance, and economic growth.
She said: ” The idea that empowering women is not just a matter of fairness, but a necessary condition for the overall success and advancement of society. By advocating for those without a voice, leaders can help create a more just and equitable world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
