The Bauchi State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has emphasized the need for increased investment in women and girls, stating that such efforts will reduce gender-based violence, promote social and political participation, and foster a more equitable society.
Speaking at a two-day training organized by the Bauchi State Government, NAWOJ Chairperson Rashida Yusuf highlighted the critical role female journalists play in raising awareness about these issues. The event focused on systematic reporting on social investment, self-reliance, and entrepreneurship.
Yusuf noted that female journalists face unique challenges, often balancing their demanding careers with family responsibilities. NAWOJ, she said, was established to give women journalists a stronger voice in a male-dominated profession and to advocate for gender equality in the media.
NAWOJ also plays a significant role in mainstreaming gender issues in news reporting, aiming to increase awareness of the need to protect women and girls from violence and abuse. The association has become a recognized advocate for women’s rights across Nigeria.
Gender Equality and Sustainable Development
Yusuf stressed the importance of Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality), which calls for eliminating gender disparities and violence against women. She explained that achieving gender equality is essential for human rights, economic growth, and national development.
The chairperson discussed the challenges women face globally, including lack of access to education, economic opportunities, and healthcare. These issues are compounded by cultural practices, early marriages, and a lack of political representation. Yusuf emphasized that gender equality helps prevent violence against women and that equality is a fundamental human right.
Underrepresentation in Politics
Yusuf also addressed the underrepresentation of women in political leadership. Citing data, she noted that women hold only a fraction of political offices at the state and federal levels. She urged for greater efforts to include women in decision-making roles to improve their social and economic standing.
In Bauchi, she pointed out that out of the 19 state commissioners, only four are women, and there are no female members in the State House of Assembly. Nationally, the numbers are equally concerning, with women occupying just 17 out of 360 seats in the House of Representatives and only three out of 109 seats in the Senate.
Call for Action: Investing in Women and Girls
Yusuf concluded by calling for more targeted investments in women and girls, particularly in education, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. She emphasized that empowering women economically and politically will have lasting benefits for the entire society. She also called for policies that go beyond short-term solutions, encouraging more partnerships that promote sustained progress.
Investing in women and girls, according to Yusuf, will improve their well-being, increase their participation in decision-making, and accelerate the achievement of gender equality in Nigeria.
