. . .Hails Kaduna Government?s strides on education

By HAUWA YAKUBU IBRAHIM, Kaduna

The National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Kaduna State Chapter, has condemned the recent exclusion of journalists from covering the Northern Governors? meeting held in Kaduna, describing the action as a violation of press freedom and a threat to transparency and accountability.

This condemnation was part of a communiqu? issued at the end of NAWOJ's monthly congress meeting held on Monday, May 12, 2025, at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat, Kaduna.

The association called for an immediate review of such policies, emphasizing the need for journalists, including women reporters, to have unrestricted access to cover public events of regional and national importance.

While acknowledging government efforts in education and empowerment, NAWOJ urged the state government to intensify its focus on job creation for graduates, recommending a strategic plan to promote youth employment and entrepreneurship.

NAWOJ, however, commended the Kaduna State Government for its efforts in the education sector, including the provision of scholarships for indigent students and the clearance of tuition fees for foreign students.

The association praised the state government?s inclusive governance initiatives, particularly its empowerment programs for people with disabilities, noting that such actions reflect a commitment to social equity.

NAWOJ also lauded the government for the improved security situation in the state and its growing focus on women?s empowerment, which it described as impactful. NAWOJ, however, urged the government to sustain and expand these initiatives to benefit more women and vulnerable groups.

In a related development, NAWOJ expressed concern over the continuous exclusion of women journalists from state-sponsored pilgrimage slots for Hajj and Jerusalem, a privilege reportedly extended to other professional groups.

The association called on the Kaduna State Government to ensure that women journalists, including those under NAWOJ and NUJ, are given equal access to pilgrimage opportunities, just like their counterparts in other professions.

The communiqu? was signed by the Communiqu? Drafting Committee, comprising Hadiza Bello Abdullahi (Chairperson), Ruth Barnabas (Secretary), and Rakiya Saminu Daura (Member). Maureen Sheyin, NAWOJ Kaduna Secretary, also endorsed the document.