Jumoke Johnson Emerges Lagos NAWOJ Chairperson, As Past Chairperson, Ekine Expresses Gratitude To Members For Their Support

The Lagos State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has elected Jumoke Johnson of Voice of Nigeria (VON) as its new Chairperson.

The election and inauguration, which took place on Thursday at the NUJ Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, brought together past leaders of the association, media scholars, guests, and female journalists from various media organizations.

In her acceptance speech, Mrs. Johnson praised the remarkable achievements of the immediate past Chairperson, Dr. Adeola Ekine.

“I want to thank Dr. Adeola Ekine for repositioning the union over the past six years.

She has taken the association to an enviable height, and we will do all within our capacity to build on that foundation,” she said.

Speaking further, Mrs. Johnson assured members that her manifesto, titled “FAME,” was designed to reposition NAWOJ by opening doors of opportunity for all members.

“As our campaign spelled out, FAME, we will step out with a focus that is trained on advocacy and advancement, mentorship, media innovation, and empowerment by tapping into welfare opportunities for Lagos NAWOJIANS, but all these great ideas will only be possible through your support.

“This manifesto was crafted to ensure that no member is left behind. We believe it will bring meaningful progress as we hit the ground running.”

The broadcaster further expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the past leaders of NAWOJ, VON management staff, colleagues, Lagos NUJ Executive members, as well as her friends and family, for their unwavering support.

Representing the NUJ Chairman, Mr. Adeleye Ajayi, the Vice Chairman, Mr. Philip Nwosu, congratulated the new NAWOJ executives.

“We congratulate the newly elected NAWOJ Exco, led by Mrs. Jumoke Johnson. We believe the union will advance under her leadership.

“We also urge the leadership to foster unity among members and initiate impactful programs that will set the association on the right course. Challenges will come, but with unity, they can be overcome.”

Also speaking at the event, the immediate past Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Olumide Sogunle, commended Dr. Ekine for her dedication and contributions to NAWOJ.

“Her commitment and hard work drew my attention to the association. I urge the new executives to remain guided by their conscience.

“You can’t satisfy everyone, but do your best—there is plenty of work ahead,” he advised.

Elected members of the NAWOJ executive include ;

• Olajumoke Johnson (Voice of Nigeria) – Chairperson
• Anu M. Thomas (Lagos Information) – Secretary
• Omolola Olamijulo (FRCN) – Treasurer
• Adaramoye Abiola (Radio Lagos/Eko FM) – Financial Secretary

The newly elected executives pledged their loyalty to the association and promised a more effective, inclusive, and well-coordinated administration, noting that they have ninety days to fill the vacant positions in the executive council.

The election was supervised by NAWOJ B ZONE Vice Chairperson, Mrs Adeola Adekunle, who also administered the oath of office.

Meanwhile, the outgoing Chairperson, Dr. Mrs. Adeola Ekein, expressed gratitude to members for their support during her tenure before officially dissolving the assembly to allow the electoral committee to take over proceedings.

In her address, she writes,

Today marks the end of a deeply fulfilling journey for me as I officially bow out as the Chairperson of NAWOJ Lagos State Chapter, after six impactful years and two remarkable tenures.

It has been a privilege and honour to serve with all humility, I am proud of how far we’ve come.

I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your unflinching support, belief, and solidarity. I appreciate you for walking this path with me.

As I pass the baton to the new leadership, I urge us all to extend the same love, support, and cooperation to them as we continue to move NAWOJ Lagos forward.

Leadership is a relay, not a destination, and the strength of our Association lies in our unity, resilience, and sisterhood.

I remain deeply committed to the ideals and growth of NAWOJ, I will always be here as a member, mentor, and advocate.

Thank you once again for trusting me with your mandate and for allowing me to serve you.

With love and solidarity,
Dr. (Mrs.) Adeola Akinwunmi Ekine
Immediate Past Chairperson,
NAWOJ Lagos State Chapter