June 09, (THEWILL) — The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Bayelsa State Chapter, has renewed its commitment to advancing the welfare of women, children and vulnerable groups following the inauguration of a new set of state executives to pilot its affairs for another three-year term.
The triennial conference and inauguration of state executives, which was held at the Ernest Ikoli Press Centre, Azikoro Road, Ekeki, Yenagoa, saw the re-election and inauguration of Mrs Grace Orumieyefa as chairperson, alongside other executive members who will serve for a second term.
Speaking at the event, the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) South South Zone F and Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Bayelsa State Council, Dr John Angese, commended the Bayelsa NAWOJ chapter for its resilience, professionalism and contributions to society.
Dr John praised the association’s various outreach programmes in schools and communities, describing them as efforts that complement the activities of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
He also applauded the peaceful and rancour-free election process that returned the leadership unopposed, noting that unity and transparency remain vital ingredients for the growth of professional bodies.
Inaugurating the executives, the Vice President of NAWOJ Zone F, Mrs Stella Macaulay, described Bayelsa NAWOJ as one of the most peaceful and united chapters in the zone, urged members to continue supporting one another and to amplify the voices of women in leadership and governance.
Macaulay emphasised the importance of solidarity among female journalists and encouraged members to remain committed to advancing the cause of women and society through responsible journalism.
A legal practitioner, Mrs Diseye Egberipou, administered the oath of office and charged the newly inaugurated executives to uphold integrity, accountability and dedication in the discharge of their duties.
In her acceptance speech, the re-elected Chairperson, Mrs Orumieyefa, expressed gratitude to members for the confidence reposed in her leadership, described her over fifteen-year journey in NAWOJ from Treasurer to Vice Chairperson and Chairperson as one shaped by mentorship, support and commitment to service.
Orumieyefa pledged to build on the achievements of past administrations by strengthening advocacy for women, children, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, and promised to prioritise capacity building, professional development and strategic partnerships to enhance the relevance and effectiveness of women journalists in the state.
The chairperson further called on members to embrace unity, cooperation and collective responsibility, stressing that the success of the association depends on the support and commitment of all members.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the chairman of the NUJ Bayelsa State Council, Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha, the Financial Secretary of the Council, Mr Theophilus Agidee, praised the peaceful transition and lauded female journalists in the state for their contributions to promoting issues affecting women and vulnerable members of society.
Also speaking, former NAWOJ Zone F Vice President, Mrs Timinepre Jombo-Idoko, congratulated the new executive and urged members to work as a team to support the Chairperson in achieving the association’s objectives.
Former Bayelsa NAWOJ Chairperson, Mrs Maria Olodi-Osumah, commended the unity within the association and encouraged members to sustain the spirit of cooperation, while former Zone F BOT member and Director in the Bayelsa State Newspaper Corporation (Newwave), Madam Peace Sinclair, called for continued support for the leadership to enable it to consolidate on its achievements.
The newly inaugurated executive members include Mrs Blessing Agadaga-Oti as Vice Chairperson, Mrs Eyel Ikisikpo-Banabo as Secretary, Mrs Deintei Otavie-Ugiri as Assistant Secretary, Mrs Patience Nicks-Osuoto as Treasurer and Mrs Peregborobofa Angese-Engonanabo as Financial Secretary.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
