Abuja, Nigeria – As the world marks International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council joins the global movement in celebrating the resilience, achievements, and contributions of women across all sectors.
This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” underscores the progress made in gender equality while emphasizing the need for continued efforts to break barriers and create more opportunities for women.
Women in journalism, governance, and various professions continue to defy limitations, proving that leadership is driven by competence, vision, and determination—not gender. The NUJ FCT Council acknowledges the increasing representation of women in decision-making roles and reaffirms its commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive environment for female professionals.
A testament to this commitment is the historic election of Grace Ike as the first female Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council in its 41-year history. Her emergence marks a significant milestone, reflecting the evolving role of women in journalism and leadership. Ike’s victory serves as an inspiration, reinforcing the message that leadership is about vision and ability, not gender.
Speaking on the significance of International Women’s Day, Grace Ike called for genuine solidarity among women, especially in politics.
“IWD should be more than just a symbolic occasion; it should be a time for women to truly support one another, both publicly and privately,” she said. “We must move beyond lip service and stop playing to the gallery. A woman who abandons her fellow women in an electoral contest, choosing instead to align with men for personal gain, is not embodying the true essence of womanhood—just as we witnessed in the NUJ FCT election.”
She emphasized the vital role of women in elections, not just as voters but as leaders, candidates, and agents of change.
“When women betray their own for political advantage, they undermine the solidarity and progress needed for true societal transformation,” she added.
“This is a moment for introspection—a time to purge ourselves of past wrongs, retrace our steps, and make amends. We must turn a new leaf and genuinely stand together, especially in politics, where women’s collective power is both needed and invaluable.”
Ike urged leaders, the federal government, and well-meaning Nigerians to invest in promoting women’s rights and gender equality.
“The importance of creating opportunities for more women to step into leadership positions cannot be overstated,” she said. “The barriers of the past no longer define us. This milestone is not just mine; it belongs to every woman who dares to challenge the norm.”
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The NUJ FCT Council also called on stakeholders to continue supporting and empowering women, ensuring they have access to platforms where they can contribute meaningfully to societal development.
“As more women take up leadership roles, their impact is evident across journalism, governance, and various fields, where they are shaping policies, narratives, and progress.”
On this International Women’s Day, the NUJ FCT Council stands in solidarity with women worldwide, celebrating their achievements and advocating for a future where leadership knows no gender.
