News Editor
From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi
As the world mark the 2025 International Women’s Day, National Association of Women Journalists NAWOJ, Benue State chapter had joined in celebrating the resilience of the Nigerian and Benue woman in particular, her strength and commitment to family, career and dedication to a peaceful, united and sustainable society .
The Chairperson, NAWOJ Benue, Elizabeth Achagh said this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action”, calls for collective action from individuals, organizations and governments all over the world to ensure equality and fairness in every sphere of life.
She said “As we reflect on the challenges of women and children, let us not forget to acknowledge the gains and the achievements of women.
“Benue women have made tremendous contributions to the development of our society, breaking barriers and making history as ‘First’, with the likes of Mrs Margaret Icheen, the first and so far only female Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, and very recently, Mrs Deborah Abeh, the first female SSG.
“These remarkable achievements, among others can not be overemphasized.”
Achagh thanked Governor Hyacinth Alia for appointing the first woman to occupy the all-important position of SSG and also the appointment of other women into key positions in his cabinet.
She, however, called for more appointment of women to ensure that they are adequately represented at decision-making levels.
The NAWOJ Chairperson further expressed worry that despite the gains, the third tier of government, there is no single woman as Chairperson in the 23 Local Government Areas of the state.
She urged political parties to brace up to close the gap just as she called on women to have unity of purpose and support one another to be the best that they can be.
She urged women Journalists to continue to amplify voices in advocating a just, fair, and equitable society devoid of oppression, discrimination and violence, where all women will be given the opportunity to reach their full potential and ensure that their rights and those of children are protected.
She said “An end to discrimination, gender bias, sexual and gender based violence is possible if we all work together to say enough is enough.”
