International Women Day: GOMEP-NG Hails Nigeria’s Women Journalists, Calls for Greater Recognition of Women’s Rights
As Nigeria joins the rest of the world in celebrating International Women’s Month, the Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers Nigeria (GOMEP-NG), an umbrella body of over 75 registered online media publishers has paid glowing tributes to women journalists in the country for their resilience, professionalism, and dedication to truth and justice. The Guild also called for increased recognition and protection of women’s rights across Nigeria, emphasizing the need for more inclusion in leadership, workplace equality, and stronger legal protections against gender-based violence and discrimination.
In a statement, jointly signed by the group’s National President President, Dr. Dozie Nwankodu, and the National Secretary, Comrd. Akpovoke Otiti, and conveyed by the body’s Spokesman, Comrd. Edem Dominic, GOMEP-NG commended women journalists who, despite numerous challenges, continue to play a vital role in shaping public opinion, holding power to account, and amplifying the voices of the marginalized. The Guild acknowledged the unique hurdles faced by female media practitioners, including workplace bias, harassment, and societal stereotypes, and urged media organizations and government institutions to foster environments that empower women in journalism.
The statement reads:
“Women journalists in Nigeria have contributed immensely to nation-building, often at greater personal risks. Many have led ground-breaking investigative reports, exposed corruption, and championed social justice.
“Despite this, they remain under-represented in leadership positions within media and other organizations, and continue to face gender-based discrimination”.
GOMEP-NG stressed that while progress has been made, more work is needed to ensure women have equal opportunities to thrive in the media industry. The Guild called on media owners, government agencies, and civil society organizations to provide mentorship, leadership training, and legal protection for female journalists, ensuring they work in safe and enabling environments.
“Beyond the media sector, GOMEP-NG is reiterating the need for broader societal reforms that guarantee women’s rights in Nigeria. Therefore, as a media body, we urged the government to intensify efforts in tackling gender-based violence, ensuring equal political representation, and enforcing laws that protect women from discrimination and abuse.
“Furthermore, we are advocating for policies that promote gender-sensitive reporting, encouraging media outlets to highlight women’s issues, celebrate their achievements, and challenge harmful stereotypes”, the statement continued.
The Guild also called on journalists—both male and female—to use their platforms to push for gender justice and social inclusion, noting that as the world moves toward gender equality, GOMEP-NG remains committed to supporting women journalists and advocating for a Nigeria where women’s rights are fully recognized and protected.
The Guild calls on all stakeholders—government, media organizations, civil society, and the general public—to join hands in building a more inclusive and equitable society where women can reach their full potential without barriers.
In conclusion, GOMEP-NG saluted Nigeria’s women journalists and pledges to continue championing the cause of justice, fairness, and equal opportunities for all.
