NAWOJ, RMRDC to Sign MoU on Women’s Economic Empowerment, Raw Materials Development

By Iyojo Ameh

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, is set to enter into a strategic partnership with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council to promote women’s economic empowerment and harness Nigeria’s industrial raw materials potential.

The collaboration will be formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in research, innovation, and inclusive economic participation, particularly for women.

The development was disclosed during a courtesy visit by NAWOJ FCT to the Director-General of RMRDC, Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, on Tuesday in Abuja.

In a press statement signed by the Secretary of NAWOJ FCT, Nkiruka Okeke, the partnership was described as a significant step towards creating sustainable opportunities for women, while aligning with the mandates and core values of both organisations.

The initiative is also expected to support RMRDC’s preparations for the maiden 2026 African Raw Materials Summit scheduled for June.

Speaking during the visit, the Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, Bassey Ita Ikpang, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to advocating for the rights of women and children, highlighting the media’s critical role in national development and social transformation.

She noted that the chapter comprises about 350 practising female journalists across print, electronic, and new media platforms within the FCT, and remains focused on promoting professionalism, visibility, and impactful advocacy.

Ikpang also highlighted recent activities, including a capacity-building initiative organised in collaboration with the German Embassy to mark this year’s International Women’s Day.

She further announced plans for a grassroots outreach programme tagged “Marketplace Advocacy,” scheduled for April 30. The initiative, she said, will focus on health, education, and democratic participation, particularly ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to her, the programme will also simplify government policies, encourage women’s participation in the electoral process, and promote awareness of women’s health needs at the grassroots.

The NAWOJ chairperson commended Prof. Ike-Muonso for his leadership, particularly his efforts in strengthening local raw materials development and promoting value addition to reduce import dependence.

“As media professionals, we are well positioned to amplify the initiatives and impact of your Council, ensuring that your programmes receive the visibility they deserve,” she said.

Ikpang also announced the appointment of the RMRDC Director-General as Patron of NAWOJ FCT, expressing confidence that his guidance would further strengthen the association’s programmes.

In his response, Prof. Ike-Muonso commended NAWOJ for its advocacy and reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to advancing industrial growth, promoting local resource utilisation, and fostering innovation for sustainable development.

He expressed optimism that the proposed MoU would enhance raw materials development and value addition in line with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The visit featured the decoration of the RMRDC Director-General as Patron of NAWOJ FCT in recognition of his leadership and commitment to inclusive development.