NAWOJ, NCWS Partner to advance women’s skill acquisition programs

On Tuesday , Aisha Ibrahim, National Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to renewing its collaboration with the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS).

She pledged to support the Council’s leadership and work together on initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s skills development and entrepreneurial empowerment.

During a courtesy visit to the NCWS national Secretariat in Abuja, Ibrahim stressed the importance of women-led organizations joining forces to create a stronger, unified voice for Nigerian women.

The gender advocate commended the NCWS leadership for its dedicated guidance and assured that NAWOJ would take a proactive stance on national issues affecting women going forward.

For some years now, NAWOJ hasn’t played an active role in NCWS affairs, but that ends now,” she said “We are back—not just to observe, but to support, contribute, and collaborate fully.”

Hajia Aisha used the occasion to propose a series of joint workshops and training programs to empower women with skills in advocacy, and leadership.

She stressed the need for mentorship network among women journalists and civil society actors. 

“Paying our dues goes beyond money,” she said. “It’s about standing by each other, sharing knowledge, and lifting each other up.”

She stressed the need for NAWOJ to reclaim its historical position in the NCWS leadership, noting that the role of Public Relations Officer was once solely reserved for the journalists’ body.

“We are ready to earn that seat again—through service, support, and solidarity,” she said.

She further called for the creation of a regular dialogue forum between both organizations to share ideas, address challenges, and track collective progress.

While congratulating the newly elected leadership of NCWS, the NAWOJ boss described their emergence as “a breath of fresh air” and encouraged them to work closely with media women across the country.

“Our mission is bigger than us. It’s about the millions of girls and women whose stories are yet to be heard. We have a duty to amplify those voices.”

In her response, Princess Edna Azura, National President of the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), emphasized that collaboration is at the core of the Council’s values. She stated, “No one can achieve progress alone, especially women.

It is only when we come together, as you suggested, that we can truly make significant strides.

That unity is what will make our voices heard and show even the men that women have awakened from their long slumber.”
She continued, “By joining forces—bringing your ideas and ours to the table and working together—we create the strongest impact.

This is the most effective way forward. We are very open to collaboration, particularly with your organization.”

Princess Azura concluded by expressing gratitude and encouraging NAWOJ to fulfill its earlier commitments, noting, “We appreciate your willingness to engage again after some time away from this joint effort.”