The 11th Triennial Delegates Conference of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) concluded in Abuja, culminating in the election of new executives to oversee its operations for the next three years.
Following a closely contested election, Aisha Bura secured the position of National President, defeating the incumbent, Ladi Bala. Mike Ikeogwu, the Chairman of the NAWOJ 2023 Electoral Committee, announced Aisha Bura’s victory on Sunday, November 26, 2023, emphasizing that NAWOJ members expressed their preferences through the ballot.
Other successful candidates include Lilian Ogabu Okonkwo as Deputy National President, Waslia Ladan as National Secretary, and Aisha Cole as Assistant Secretary.
Fatima Rasheed emerged as National Treasurer, Jemila Chinwe Abubakar as National Auditor, Ifeoma Aka as Financial Secretary, Adeola Adekunle as Vice President Zone B, Amaka Agbo as Vice President Zone C, Chizoba Ogbeche as Vice President Zone D, and Stella Macauley as Vice President Zone F.
During her acceptance speech, Aisha Bura, now addressed as National Chairperson, pledged to safeguard the interests of women journalists and implement reforms to elevate NAWOJ to new heights.
The electoral process underwent monitoring by members of the National Executive of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), including National President Chris Isiguzo, and other observer groups.
Mr. Chris Isiguzo, the National President of NUJ, urged the new leadership to usher in a new chapter marked by collective strength to sustain and advance NAWOJ in line with the expectations set since its establishment.
The 11th Triennial Conference witnessed the participation of NAWOJ delegates from all 36 states in Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, founded in the year 1989, functions as the overarching body for women journalists in Nigeria.
Its primary mission involves tackling issues related to gender inclusion within the field of journalism and promoting the professional growth and advancement of women in this domain.
This organization serves as a unifying force, bringing together women journalists across Nigeria, and is dedicated to creating a supportive environment that addresses the unique challenges faced by women in the journalism profession.
Through its various initiatives and programs, the association endeavors to empower women journalists, foster a sense of community, and contribute to the overall enhancement of gender equality within the journalistic landscape of Nigeria.
