Nigerian women in the Media industry have been advised to support one another in promoting programmes that will assist in showcasing their talents and capabilities in the country.
A lecturer at the Federal University of Technoligy (FUT), Minna, Dr. Valda Itunu Martins, gave the advice in a paper presented at the Niger Women in the Media Summit, which held at the IBB Pen House, Minna.
Valda, in a paper titled, ‘The Role of the Media in Promoting Gender Mainstreaming’, described as sad how some media organizations are biased particularly in promoting issues of mutual understanding amongst the male and female gender.
She said, “It is time for women to start encouraging one another and not to give up no matter the odds against us. Let us also strive to be role models to up coming practitioners.
“The situation in the world today has proved that females have proved their capability in playing complimentary roles and hence, should be given space to contribute to the growth and development of the country”.
Earlier, the Convener of the event, Ms Justina Asishana, said the Summit, with the theme, ‘Empowering Women Journalists for Inclusive Reporting and Leadership’, is targeted at encouraging women journalists to aspire for higher heights, while also exposing them to challenges in the discharge of their duties.
She stated, “The media industry, like many others, has often been male-dominated, with limited avenues for women to showcase their talents and capabilities.
“This Summit aims to address this disparity and create an empowering space for women journalists to thrive.
“Moreover, there is an undeniable gap in the mainstreaming of gender in media. Our stories, our perspectives, and our experiences often find themselves relegated to the sidelines.
” It is high time we change this narrative by ensuring that gender is not just a category but an integral part of every story. We can create a more balanced and representative media landscape.”
