NAWOJ Chairperson advocates special support for Female Journalists covering Hajj

The Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Aisha Ibrahim, has called for special provisions to be made for female journalists assigned to cover the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

In a statement released from Saudi Arabia, Comrade Ibrahim described covering the Hajj as a rewarding yet highly demanding assignment. She noted that beyond being a spiritual obligation for Muslims, it also serves as an opportunity to render humanitarian service.

However, she emphasized that the coverage of the exercise remains one of the toughest reporting duties due to the physical and mental strain it places on journalists over a period of 35 to 40 days.

Currently on official duty covering the Hajj for Borno State, where she serves as the Director of Information at the Borno State Hajj Commission, Comrade Ibrahim pointed out that many incidents involving women during the pilgrimage are better handled by female journalists. She explained that Hajj is a congregation of people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, many of whom face unique challenges during the spiritual exercise.

She therefore appealed to the National Hajj Commission and State Hajj boards to give this consideration priority in future arrangements. Comrade Ibrahim further recommended that other states adopt the Borno State model, which ensures both male and female journalists participate in covering the annual pilgrimage.

Highlighting the significance of Hajj, she noted it continues to offer millions of Muslim faithful the platform to meet, build international relationships, and expand their knowledge of diverse cultures.

The call by the NAWOJ president seeks to address gender-sensitive issues effectively during the Hajj while ensuring equal opportunities and support for women in journalism.