The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council and the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) FCT Chapter have called on media professionals to spotlight the struggles and successes of women farmers in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Speaking at the first anniversary of SheFarmer and the national launch of the SheFarmers Livestock Project in Abuja, NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, emphasized the media’s role in advocating for women in agriculture. She urged journalists to amplify their voices, bringing attention to both their achievements and the systemic barriers they face.
“Women farmers are key players in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, yet their contributions often go unrecognized. It is our duty as journalists to tell their stories and push for their rights,” Ike stated.
Echoing this sentiment, NAWOJ FCT Chairperson, Comrade Bassey Ita-Ikpang, highlighted the challenges women farmers encounter, including restricted access to credit, land, and markets. She noted that shedding light on these issues can drive policy changes that support food security and economic empowerment.
Speaking on the theme “Women Overcoming Challenges of Entrepreneurship and Food Security in Nigeria,” Ita-Ikpang commended the resilience of female entrepreneurs who continue to thrive despite economic and social obstacles. She emphasized that limited access to finance, technology, and markets remains a major hindrance to women in agribusiness.
“Beyond financial constraints, cultural norms often limit women’s participation in entrepreneurship. However, their determination and innovation continue to drive progress,” she added.
She further applauded the SheFarmer Project for its efforts in training, financial support, and market access, which have empowered thousands of women in agriculture. NAWOJ FCT reaffirmed its commitment to promoting gender equality, social justice, and sustainable agricultural development through media advocacy.
In her keynote address, the Mandate Secretary of the FCTA Women and Children Secretariat, Hon. Dayo Benjamin, outlined the administration’s initiatives under FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to support women in agriculture. She assured women farmers of continued government backing in their endeavors.
Other dignitaries at the event, including the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, the Ona of Abaji, ECOWAS representatives, and the FCT Mandate Secretary on Agriculture, lauded the SheFarmer initiative and pledged their support.
Earlier, FCT Chairperson of SheFarmer, Dr. Maimuna Abdullahi Habib, highlighted the organization’s achievements, reiterating its mission to empower women farmers through skills development and financial inclusion.
With media advocacy playing a crucial role in shaping public perception and policy, NUJ and NAWOJ’s call to action underscores the need for journalists to elevate the voices of women farmers, ensuring their contributions to Nigeria’s food security and economy are recognized and supported.
