Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, has initiated a strategic partnership with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) aimed at promoting women’s economic empowerment through Nigeria’s industrial raw materials sector.
The collaboration, which will be formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is expected to strengthen joint efforts in research, innovation, and inclusive economic participation, while creating sustainable opportunities for women.
The development was disclosed during a courtesy visit by the NAWOJ FCT leadership to the Director-General of RMRDC, Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, in Abuja.
Speaking during the visit, the NAWOJ FCT Chairperson, Bassey Ita Ikpang, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of women and children. She emphasised the critical role of the media in promoting national development and social transformation.
Ikpang noted that the chapter comprises about 350 practising female journalists across print, electronic, and digital media platforms within the FCT, all committed to professionalism, visibility, and impactful advocacy.
She highlighted some of the association’s recent initiatives, including a capacity-building programme organised in collaboration with the German Embassy Abuja to commemorate International Women’s Day.
The chairperson also announced plans for a grassroots outreach programme titled “Marketplace Advocacy,” scheduled for April 30. The initiative aims to engage women at the grassroots level on issues such as health, education, and democratic participation, particularly ahead of the 2027 Nigerian general elections.
According to her, the programme will simplify government policies, encourage greater female participation in the electoral process, and promote awareness of women’s health needs.
Ikpang commended the leadership of RMRDC and praised Prof. Ike-Muonso for strengthening local raw materials development and promoting value addition, noting that such initiatives are crucial to Nigeria’s industrial growth and reducing reliance on imports.
“As media professionals, we are strategically positioned to amplify the council’s initiatives and ensure wider visibility for its programmes,” she said.
She also announced the appointment of Prof. Ike-Muonso as Patron of NAWOJ FCT, citing his leadership and commitment to inclusive development.
In his response, Ike-Muonso commended NAWOJ for its advocacy efforts and reaffirmed the council’s dedication to promoting industrial growth, local resource utilisation, and innovation for sustainable development.
He expressed confidence that the proposed MoU would strengthen raw materials development and value addition in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The RMRDC Director-General also pledged full support for the implementation of the partnership and NAWOJ’s upcoming Marketplace Advocacy initiative.
The visit concluded with the formal decoration of Ike-Muonso as Patron of NAWOJ FCT in recognition of his leadership and contributions to inclusive national development.
