The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has praised female journalists for their vital contributions to national security, describing them as powerful agents of change in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.
Dr. Mahmoud made the remarks in Abuja at the inaugural Zonal Conference of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D (North Central). The event, which drew participants from across the zone, focused on the theme “Curbing Insecurity: The Role of Female Journalists in National Security.”
Commending the historic nature of the gathering, the Minister noted that the conference arrived at a critical juncture for Nigeria, which continues to confront serious security issues, including terrorism, banditry, cybercrime, and the spread of fake news.
“As women, journalists, and professionals, you occupy a special place in our national life. You shape public opinion, give voice to the voiceless, and contribute to healing fractured communities,” Dr. Mahmoud said.
She emphasized that female journalists are not only reporters but also community builders and peace advocates, especially in vulnerable and conflict-prone regions.
In acknowledging the challenges female media professionals face, Dr. Mahmoud called for collective action to address safety concerns, gender discrimination, and limited representation in editorial and policy-making spaces.
“This conference should serve as a platform for advocacy, training, and solidarity to confront the unique obstacles you face,” she stated.
On current efforts by the FCT Administration, Dr. Mahmoud highlighted several initiatives aimed at strengthening security under the leadership of FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike. These include, Strengthened synergy among security agencies, Deployment of modern surveillance systems, Upgraded intelligence-sharing protocols, Establishment of rapid-response task forces and Urban development efforts like road rehabilitation and installation of street lighting to discourage criminal activity
In her remarks, Mrs. Chizoba Ogbeche, Zonal Vice President of NAWOJ Zone D, underlined the critical role female journalists continue to play in Nigeria’s security architecture.
Ogbeche noted that journalists in the North Central—covering Kwara, Kogi, Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, and the FCT—have exposed acts of terrorism, banditry, human rights abuses, and more, often at great personal risk.
“Our stories humanize the crisis, bring balance to national discourse, and offer hope. We must continue to pursue truth while advocating for safer and more inclusive working environments,” she said.
She also called for increased collaboration between the media, civil society organisations, and academia to enrich public understanding and improve the quality of security reporting.
The conference served as a powerful forum to deepen dialogue at the intersection of journalism, gender equity, and national security.