The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D, has raised the alarm over the recurring violence and mass displacement in Benue State, lamenting the growing impact on women and children in affected communities.
In a press statement signed by the Zonal Secretary, Juliana Ose Ofoku, and made available to journalists in Lokoja, NAWOJ called on security agencies and all tiers of government to step up their response and prevent further loss of lives and livelihoods, especially in North Central Nigeria.
“Women and children continue to bear the brunt of these violent attacks. We urge security agencies to be more proactive in addressing the insecurity ravaging Benue and neighboring states,” said Chizoba Ogbeche, Vice President of NAWOJ, Zone D.
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Call for Justice in Benue Killings
The association also urged the Department of State Security (DSS) to ensure diligent prosecution of suspects arrested in connection with the Benue killings.
“Such action will serve as a deterrent to others and restore public confidence in the justice system,” NAWOJ emphasized.
Humanitarian Crisis Worsening in North Central
NAWOJ Zone D—which covers Benue, Nasarawa, Niger, Kogi, Kwara, Plateau, and the FCT—highlighted the dire humanitarian conditions in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, particularly for women who are now sole providers for their families.
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Minister of Women Affairs Commended for Timely Intervention
Meanwhile, NAWOJ commended the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, for her recent intervention in Benue State, describing it as “timely and impactful.”
In alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to economically empower women and vulnerable groups, the Minister delivered Cash grants, 400 bags of rice, 20 bales of Ankara fabrics, fairly used clothes, grinding and sewing machines. These packages were distributed alongside messages of compassion from the President and First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
Support for Women Farmers and GBV Survivors
“Twenty women farmers received ₦1 million each, with an advance payment of ₦500,000 already disbursed and the balance scheduled for later in the year. Cash support was also extended to women’s groups and survivors of gender-based violence (GBV),” the statement disclosed.
NAWOJ applauded the efforts as critical steps in cushioning the impact of insecurity and economic hardship on vulnerable households.
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Call for Sustained Government Action
NAWOJ reiterated its call for sustained government intervention in conflict-ridden zones across North Central Nigeria. They emphasized that women and children must remain central to peacebuilding and national development strategies.
The association also congratulated Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim on her conferment with the traditional title of ‘Dooshima of Benue’, meaning “Love of Benue People.”
“The title reflects her tireless commitment to the empowerment and protection of Nigerian women and girls. From economic empowerment schemes to GBV shelters and support for widows and orphans, her work is impacting lives across the country,” NAWOJ said.
