NAWOJ Zone D urges FG to equip security agencies, protect vulnerable communities

Nigerians Online News Desk August 5, 2025

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The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D, has called on the Federal Government to urgently equip security agencies with modern tools and surveillance technology to combat insurgency and increasing insecurity across the country.

This appeal was contained in a communiqué issued after the association’s bi-monthly virtual zonal meeting held on Tuesday.

According to the communiqué, signed by members of the drafting committee — Mwuese Adem (Plateau), Phoebe Atetan (Benue), and Mariam Abdulkadir-Yusuf (Kwara) — the association stressed that well-equipped security forces were essential to curbing the recurring violence, especially in Benue and Plateau States, which have left women and children disproportionately affected.

Leadership and attendance

The meeting was chaired by NAWOJ Zone D Vice President, Mrs. Chizoba Ogbeche, with support from Zonal Secretary Juliana Ofoku and Board of Trustees representative Annah Daniel. Other participants included Ex-officio member Anne Olurinde, as well as Chairpersons and Secretaries from all six state chapters within the zone and the FCT.

Key Resolutions and Appeals

1. Boosting security infrastructure

NAWOJ urged the Federal Government and the six state governments in Zone D, including the FCT administration, to prioritise equipping security operatives with the tools necessary for intelligence gathering, surveillance, and rapid response.
The group called for the timely arrest and prosecution of perpetrators of violent attacks to serve as a deterrent.

2. Protecting vulnerable populations

The association raised alarms about the devastating impact of insecurity on women and children, especially in internally displaced communities.
It stressed the need for proactive and collaborative strategies to safeguard lives and restore stability.

3. Commending the First Lady’s support

NAWOJ Zone D appreciated First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her financial support and empathy towards victims of violence in Benue and Plateau States.
The group urged state authorities to ensure transparency in the disbursement of relief funds so that aid reaches the actual victims and communities in need.

4. Tackling disruption in education

Concern was expressed over the interruption of schooling for displaced children.
The association appealed to the First Lady and wives of state governors to empower affected women and ensure school reintegration for displaced children to prevent long-term educational setbacks.

5. Supporting women in politics

NAWOJ applauded the sustained advocacy for the “Special Seats for Women in Parliament” Bill, encouraging women’s groups and civil society to continue lobbying legislators until the bill is passed into law.

6. Responding to flood warnings

The group praised the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) for its early warning alerts on potential flooding in high-risk areas.
It called on the Federal Government to implement both structural solutions (dams and drainage systems) and non-structural measures, such as adherence to early warnings and public awareness campaigns.
Residents in riverine and flood-prone zones were advised to relocate to safer areas, while NEMA was urged to step up community sensitisation on flood preparedness.

NAWOJ Zone D reaffirmed its commitment to amplifying women’s voices, advocating for safer communities, and pushing for inclusive governance across the country.