NAWOJ, RMRDC Forge Strategic Alliance To Unlock Women’s Economic Power Through Nigeria’s Raw Materials
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
In a country where untapped natural resources and underutilised female potential remain twin challenges, a new partnership is seeking to bridge both gaps, by placing women at the centre of Nigeria’s industrial future.
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) to drive inclusive economic empowerment and promote Nigeria’s vast industrial raw materials potential.
The collaboration, unveiled during a courtesy visit to the RMRDC Director-General, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso in Abuja, will focus on strengthening research, innovation, and women’s participation in the industrial value chain.
Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, said the initiative aligns with the association’s commitment to advancing the rights of women and children, while leveraging the media as a tool for national development and social transformation.
She revealed that the chapter, comprising about 350 female journalists across print, electronic and digital platforms, is intensifying its advocacy through targeted programmes, including its upcoming grassroots campaign, “Marketplace Advocacy,” scheduled for April 30.
According to her, the initiative will promote health awareness, education, and democratic participation, particularly as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, while also simplifying government policies for women at the grassroots.
Ikpang also highlighted NAWOJ’s recent capacity-building programme held in collaboration with the German Embassy to mark International Women’s Day, reaffirming the association’s drive for impactful engagement.
Commending Prof. Ike-Muonso’s leadership, she noted that his commitment to local raw materials development and value addition is critical to reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imports and accelerating industrial growth.
In response, Prof. Ike-Muonso applauded NAWOJ’s advocacy efforts and expressed confidence that the proposed MoU would enhance raw materials development in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He further pledged the Council’s support for the successful implementation of the partnership, as well as NAWOJ’s Marketplace Advocacy initiative.
A major highlight of the visit was the decoration of the RMRDC Director-General as Patron of NAWOJ FCT, recognising his contributions to inclusive development and institutional growth.
The partnership is also expected to support preparations for the maiden 2026 African Raw Materials Summit scheduled for June.
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