In a call for collective action, the United Nations ,UN, has appealed to media organizations for collaborative support in promoting gender equality and putting an end to violence against women and girls.
The plea was made by Beatrice Eyong, UN Women Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, during the inaugural UN Nigeria Media Partners Conference 2023 held in Abuja.
Under the theme “Escalating Media Action for Women’s Empowerment, Ending Violence Against Women and Girls,” the conference aimed to foster increased media involvement in addressing gender-based issues. Eyong expressed concern about gender inequality and Gender-Based Violence ,GBV, emphasizing their detrimental impact on societal development.
Despite Nigeria’s wealth of intellectual resources, GBV remains prevalent, prompting the UN to emphasize the powerful role the media can play in accelerating efforts to combat these issues. Eyong challenged media professionals to actively contribute to changing negative gender perceptions and pushing for gender-responsive policies.
The National President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists ,NAWOJ, Aisha Ibrahim, highlighted the crucial role of the media in raising awareness about violence against women and girls. She emphasized the responsibility of media professionals to act as unbiased advocates, lending their voices to the voiceless.
Dr. Lawrence Agbubuzu, Chairman of the Southeast Traditional Rulers Council, commended the media for its role in disseminating information. However, he urged the media to do more to eradicate gender inequality and GBV, assuring them of the support of traditional rulers in their advocacy.
The conference facilitated discussions on the challenges and opportunities in advancing gender equality and ending violence against women and girls in Nigeria. As the UN continues its efforts to address these critical issues, media collaboration is seen as a vital component in driving positive change and reshaping societal perceptions.
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