Abia NAWOJ Marks 34th Anniversary with Road Walk, Humanitarian Outreach, Awards
The Abia State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has commemorated its 34th anniversary with a week-long celebration filled with advocacy campaigns, sports, charity visits, and recognition of individuals who have impacted lives across the state.
The celebration, which kicked off on Monday, May 5th, began with a symbolic road walk across the major streets of Umuahia, drawing attention to key issues affecting women, children, and the vulnerable. Members of NAWOJ, led by Chairperson Comrade Josephine Ogwo engaged the public in messages of justice, empowerment, and inclusion.
At major junctions such as the Ochendo Motor Park, Aba Park, and Isi-Gate, Mrs. Gloria Ify Abiakam addressed traders and commuters, emphasizing that NAWOJ’s mission extends beyond journalism.
“We are not only journalists. We are advocates—fighting against injustice, gender-based violence, rape, and harmful cultural practices. We give voice to the voiceless,” she asserted.
As part of its humanitarian efforts, NAWOJ visited the St. Vincent De Paul Home in Umuafai, Umuahia North, and Agape Charity Home in Ubakala, Umuahia South, donating food items, toiletries, and household essentials.
Sister Gertrude Ukanwoke of St. Vincent’s expressed gratitude but raised concerns over poor feeding,depleted infrastructure, overcrowding, and the growing number of children with special needs.
At Agape Home, NAWOJ encouraged caregivers to remain dedicated despite economic challenges. Mrs. Okonkwo Nnalu Oyibo, speaking for the home, appreciated the association’s consistent support.
On Wednesday, a novelty football match between NAWOJ Angels and the Catholic Women Organization (CWO) of Christ the King Parish, World Bank Housing Estate, brought fun and excitement to the celebration. NAWOJ Angels clinched victory with a 1-0 win.
Grand Finale: A Celebration of Impact and Excellence
The celebration climaxed on Thursday, May 8th, with a colourful ceremony at the Police Officers’ Mess, Umuahia, featuring speeches, awards, and the cutting of the anniversary cake.
Governor Alex Otti, represented by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, congratulated NAWOJ for its tireless advocacy for women’s rights and social justice. He commended the media’s role in disseminating accurate information and pledged support for the association’s future activities, including assistance with logistics.
“Our administration is committed to eliminating gender discrimination and harmful cultural practices. Today, more women occupy key positions in governance under my leadership,” he said.
Chairman of the occasion and Rector of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic,
Dr. C.K. Okoro, applauded the association’s fearless advocacy,
while Deputy Majority Leader of the Abia State House of Assembly,
Hon. Mathias Ume assured of 
continued legislative backing for pro-women policies.
In her welcome address, Comrade Josephine Ogwo praised Governor Otti’s infrastructural strides and First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Otti’s commitment to girl-child and women’s burdens.
She appealed for a bus and office space for NAWOJ to enhance their outreach and counseling services.
The event also featured a powerful lecture titled “Eliminating Obnoxious Cultural Practices Against Women” delivered by Mrs. Becky Oguama, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs.
NAWOJ honoured several individuals for their contributions to humanity and the media profession. Among them were:
Chief Obioma Okorie, CEO, Obioma Enterprises
Hon. Justice Benson Anya
Hon. Mathias Ume, Deputy Majority Leader, Abia State House of Assembly
Mrs. Ngozi Queen, immediate past Head of Service
Nne Johnson Chukwu,a renowned business woman
Past NAWOJ Chairpersons: Mrs. Nwaka Amauwa, Lady Tina Ikwugbu, Pastor Mrs. Lozie Irozuru, and Mrs. Beatrice Okezie Odoemelem
Former Zone C Vice President, Southeast: Lady Nkasi Akomah
Lady Gloria Ify Abiakam, immediate past Treasurer and current Chairman of the Association of Federal Establishments in Abia State.
Pastor Uzoma Isiakpu, retired Permanent Secretary
Sir Ukpabi Otuama Samuel, a renowned timber merchant instrumental to the realization of classroom blocks during the days of NAWOJ Standard School.
Reflecting on the anniversary, Comrade Nwaka Amauwa said, “This is not just a celebration,it is a declaration of intent. We reaffirm our vision of a just, equitable society where women’s voices are heard and the vulnerable are cared for.”
Another Awardee,the Chairman, Association of Heads of Federal Establishments, Abiakam Gloria hirariously opined that the 34th Anniversary was a grand celebration of impact ,pomp,peageantry and excellence
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