The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), South-South Zone, has called for bold and decisive actions to address persistent challenges confronting women and girls as the world marks International Women’s Day 2026.
In a statement jointly signed on Sunday February 8, 2026, by the Zonal Vice Chairperson, Stella Macaulay, and the Zonal Secretary, Eunice Emeyazia, the association urged governments, institutions, and stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric and implement practical measures that guarantee the rights, equality, and empowerment of women.
This year’s celebration, themed “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”, was described by NAWOJ South-South as a powerful reminder that the struggle for gender justice remains far from over.
According to the association, women across the South-South region and Nigeria at large continue to play critical roles in nation-building by reporting the truth, shaping public narratives, defending democratic ideals, and contributing to community development.
However, NAWOJ lamented that despite these contributions, women still face numerous barriers, including unequal opportunities, gender-based violence, economic marginalization, and systemic discrimination that limit their ability to reach their full potential.
“The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day must go beyond a symbolic message. It must inspire collective action to dismantle structures that deny women and girls their rights and opportunities,” the statement said.
The association therefore called on governments at all levels, policymakers, media organizations, civil society groups, and community leaders to take measurable steps toward promoting gender justice.
Among other demands, NAWOJ urged authorities to strengthen and enforce laws that protect the dignity and rights of women and girls, ensure greater representation of women in governance and decision-making, and intensify efforts to end gender-based violence through stronger enforcement mechanisms and improved support systems for survivors.
The group also emphasized the need for sustained investment in education, digital inclusion, and economic empowerment programmes for women and girls across the South-South region.
Particular attention was also drawn to the media sector, where NAWOJ called for safer and more inclusive newsroom environments that allow women journalists to work and thrive without discrimination, intimidation, or harassment.
Reaffirming the commitment of women journalists to social progress, the association noted that members of NAWOJ would continue to amplify the voices of marginalized communities, hold institutions accountable, and promote conversations that lead to meaningful societal change.
NAWOJ further stressed that International Women’s Day should not merely be viewed as a moment of celebration but as a call to confront the unfinished work of achieving gender equality.
“Progress will not happen by chance; it will come through courage, advocacy, solidarity, and sustained action,” the statement added.
The association reaffirmed its resolve to continue championing gender equality, defending the rights of women journalists, and promoting a society where every woman and girl can live, lead, and succeed without limitations.
“The future must be equal, and the time to build that future is now,” NAWOJ declared.
