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BREAKING BARRIERS: NAWOJ FCT AND TRADITIONAL RULERS UNITE TO EMPOWER RURAL WOMEN

In a groundbreaking move ahead of the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, has partnered with traditional rulers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to champion the rights of rural women. The partnership aims to amplify the voices of rural women, who often face barriers such as limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. According to NAWOJ FCT Chairperson, Comrade Bassey Ita-Ikpang, “We must take deliberate action to ensure rural women are not left behind in the fight for gender equality, economic empowerment, and social justice.” This year’s theme, “Accelerating Action for Gender Equality: The Voice of Rural Women,” emphasizes the urgent need for action. The Wife of the Ona of Abaji and President of the Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers Association, HRM Hajiya Hauwa Ibrahim, reaffirmed the traditional rulers’ commitment to the cause. She highlighted the prevalence of gender-based violence in rural communities, saying, “The collaboration with NAWOJ FCT will drive positive change for women and children.” The Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers Association was established in 2019, following the advice of former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, to create a unified front for advancing women’s causes. With this landmark collaboration, NAWOJ FCT and traditional rulers are set to break barriers, amplify rural women’s voices, and drive lasting change across communities in the FCT.