The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has intensified its grassroots advocacy with an outreach to market women in Abuja, focusing on health awareness, economic empowerment and political participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The programme, held at Wuse Market, was organised by the NAWOJ Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter in collaboration with partners. It brought together health experts, development advocates and traders.
Speaking at the event, NAWOJ National Chairperson, Hajia Aisha Ibrahim Bura, commended the FCT chapter for extending advocacy efforts beyond formal platforms to engage women at the community level.
She urged women to prioritise their health and take active roles in governance, stressing the need for increased female representation in elective positions.
Bura also called for greater awareness of gender-based violence, reproductive health rights and economic inclusion, noting that women must move beyond passive roles to influence decision-making processes.
In her remarks, NAWOJ FCT Chairperson, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, said the initiative was designed to deliver critical information directly to women in the informal sector.
She explained that the outreach addressed issues such as immunisation, reproductive health, women’s rights and civic engagement, while encouraging women to speak out against abuse and seek support when necessary.
Health professionals at the event highlighted key concerns affecting women and families. The Executive Director of Vaccine Network, Dr. Chika Offor, emphasised the importance of vaccines, particularly the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, and called for increased uptake.
Dr. Ejike Oji, in his presentation, underscored the role of digital platforms in expanding access to healthcare and economic opportunities, referencing the “5 Million Women Database” initiative.
A keynote address delivered on behalf of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) stressed the need to integrate women into Nigeria’s raw material value chains, noting that many remain concentrated in low-income segments despite the country’s vast resource potential.
Some of the participating market women said the outreach improved their understanding of health issues and civic responsibilities. They also called for credible electoral processes and pledged to support candidates based on merit.
