By Omolara Akintoye
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Rivers State Chapter, today joined the global community in celebrating Mother’s Day, paying special tribute to the exceptional contributions of mothers, particularly women journalists who excel in both their professional and family roles.
In a statement jointly signed by the Chairperson, Susan Serekara-Nwikhana, and Secretary, Precious Ahiakwo-Ovie, NAWOJ Rivers State highlighted the dual roles played by female media professionals as caregivers and truth-bearers in society.
“Today, we celebrate the extraordinary women who daily demonstrate that journalism and motherhood are not mutually exclusive,” said Chairperson Serekara-Nwikhana. “Our members embody strength, juggling tight deadlines with school runs, press conferences with parent-teacher meetings, and investigative reporting with nurturing the next generation.”
The association noted the particular challenges faced by women in media, including : – Workplace discrimination and gender bias; Lack of adequate maternity policies in media organizations ; Safety concerns for female reporters in the field ; The mental health burden of balancing career and family, among others.
NAWOJ Rivers however used the occasion to renew its call for : Improved maternity benefits across media houses ; Gender-sensitive safety protocols for female journalists; Flexible work arrangements for nursing mothers; Stronger policies against workplace harassment.
The association specially acknowledges : Veteran women journalists who paved the way ; Young mothers breaking barriers in digital journalism ; Widows and single parents in the profession ; Women covering conflict and humanitarian issue.
The statement ended with a call to action:
“This Mother’s Day, we urge media owners, policymakers and the public to move beyond flowers and chocolates. What mothers need are policies that recognize our dual roles, workplaces that accommodate our needs, and a society that values our contributions.”
