Women Journalists in Enugu state, Nigeria have been advised to upscale themselves and acquire digital skills that will enable them perform their jobs smoothly and efficiently, connect to the world and earn additional income through online businesses..
Menkiti explained that, on a daily basis, in Nigeria, almost every adult, young people too connect to the internet and social media through a digital device. This is the case in most countries of the world.
The former senior management staff of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (Radio Nigeria) and member, The Nigerian Guild of Editors, defined Digital skills as ” the ability to use digital devices, such as computers and smartphones, to find, evaluate, create, share, and use content.
“Using email, social media, or other tools like Zoom and Team, Creating content: Writing emails, creating original content, or using programs like Photoshop and Illustrator for graphic design. Analysing data: Using data analytics or data visualization tools. Securing information: using cybersecurity technologies to protect data, networks, and devices from cyber attacks “,she said
Menkiti noted that Digital skills empower journalists to grow by enabling them to access and verify information more effectively, reach wider audiences through online platforms, create engaging multimedia content, analyze data for deeper insights, report news in real-time, and interact directly with their readers, ultimately enhancing their storytelling capabilities and career prospects in the modern media landscape.
Pix: Dr. Ngene, Chairman,Science Technical Vocational School Management Board
The Guest Lecturer noted that digital skill is convenient, and news content can be accessed from anywhere at any time. It is also engaging. “Digital media deepens storytelling by integrating writing, visuals and sound. It enhances the audience’s experience with”, she said..
She highlighted key ways digital skills help a journalist grow. These included,
Information gathering and verification,
Utilizing search engine techniques and filters to find reliable and relevant data.
Fact-checking information through digital tools and cross-referencing sources. Audience Engagement and Reach: Publishing content on multiple digital platforms like websites, social media, and podcasts.
Pix: Udoye
In her goodwill message the Commissioner for Gender Affairs,Mrs Ngozi Enih represented by Mrs Chisom Udoye of the Department of Psychology in the Ministry,, urged women Journalists to upscale their capacity by acquiring digital skill to enhance their productivity.
In her remarks, the Chairman,Science Technical Vocational School Management Board ,Dr Amaka Ngene, advised women Journalists to build their capacity , empower one another.and key into the digital space for efficiency.
She described the theme of the workshop as not only timely but also critical to the future of journalism:.
Pix: Dr. Ngene
Her words, “Equipping Women Journalists with Digital Skills for a Successful Career.” In a world where technology evolves faster than a breaking news headline, staying ahead of the curve is no longer optional; it is a necessity.
Dr. Ngene noted that ,”in today’s rapidly evolving media landscape, digital skills are no longer optional—they are essential.” The advent of technology, she said, has transformed the way we gather, process, and disseminate information.
She noted that “For women journalists, who often balance multiple roles in their personal and professional lives, acquiring these skills is not just about staying relevant; it is about thriving in a competitive and dynamic industry.”
On the fear expressed by some people that AI, Digital skills were another plot to replace human beings with robots, Dr. Ngene assured that “no robot can match the wit, intuition, and storytelling prowess of a woman journalist, saying, “f anything, AI is here to make your jobs easier, not to take them. Think of it as your new intern—one that doesn’t need coffee breaks but can process data faster than you can say “Enugu State.”
She went further to say that, “Knowledge is power, but digital knowledge is superpower.” The Guest Speaker noted that “In a world where information travels at the speed of light, women journalists must be equipped to harness the power of digital tools to tell stories that matter, stories that inspire, and stories that drive change.
“This seminar is a testament to the commitment of NAWOJ Enugu State to empower its members with the tools needed to excel in the digital age. Equipping NAWOJ with these skills, we are not only enhancing their careers but also ensuring that their voices are amplified in shaping narratives and driving change in our society.,” she said.
Pix: Dr. Ngene
The Chairman of STVSMB, commended NAWOJ for the initiative and urged all participants to seize the opportunity to learn, grow, and network.
“Let us remember that when we empower women, we empower communities, and when we equip women journalists with digital skills, we strengthen the entire media industry.
“Today, by investing in your digital skills, you are not only standing up for yourselves but also paving the way for future generations of women journalists”, Dr. Ngene said.
She commended NAWOJ for organizing the program, saying it was apt
Pix: : Atuonwu, Zonal Manager ,NAN
In her lecture on the roles of Women Journalists in combating Gender Based Violence in the South East zone,Nigeria, the :the Zonal Manager ,News Agency of Nigeria, NAN Mrs Maureen Atuonwu
pointed out that female journalists have a critical role to play in shaping narratives, raising awareness, and demanding accountability.
The Resources person noted that the South East region of Nigeria was not immune to the scourge of GBV.
Pix: Atuonwu
According to her, cases abound in the five South Eastern States of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo states. From domestic violence to sexual harassment, harmful widowhood practices, trafficking, and workplace discrimination.
“Women face numerous challenges that are often underreported or normalized. Cultural silence and societal stigma make it difficult for survivors to seek justice. Many cases go unreported due to fear, lack of legal support, or weak institutional response,” she said .
Atuonwu recalled that towards the end of 2024, a man identified as Sunday beat his wife, Habibat Bakare, to death in the Ipaja area of Lagos State (Punch Newspaper, 2024). At the beginning of this year, in Niger State, a housewife, Fatima Dzuma, killed her husband with a pestle while he slept, claiming that the husband had beaten her first (Daily Trust Newspaper, 2025).
“Pix: Aninweagwa
Furthermore, in Enugu State, a man chopped off his wife’s arms over suspicions of infidelity, rendering the woman permanently maimed (Vanguard Newspaper, 2025).
“Last January, in Abagana Community, Anambra state, a devastating incident occurred where a man set his wife ablaze over allegations of infidelity, leaving their five children motherless. Again in Anambra, three children were killed and squeezed in a freezer.
“Other cases of children molestation abound in the country particularly in the South East. Just few days ago, a couple killed each other in Ekiti State over alleged report of infidelity. (This Day Newspaper, 2025).”, she said.
Pix: Atuonwu
The Zonal manager hinted that the media play a powerful role in shaping perceptions, influencing policies, and driving social change. Female journalists, in particular, bring unique perspectives, empathy, and lived experiences that make them crucial in covering GBV issues effectively.
The roles as she listed were, “. Amplifying the Voices of Survivors, investigative and Holding Institutions Accountable,: By reporting on justice denied or delayed, they can push for stronger laws and better enforcement of existing policies.
. Education and Awareness through Media
Using radio, television, print, and sociale to sensitize members of the public about GBV, legal rights, and available support services, special programs focused on women’s rights, self-defense, and economic empowerment can contribute to changing societal attitudes., shaping Gender-Sensitive Reporting
She listed Challenges Faced by Female Journalists in Covering GBV, to j
Despite their vital role, female journalists face numerous challenges:
Threats and harassment, m when covering powerful perpetrators.
Limited access to resources for invesative journalism.
Workplace discrimination that prevents them from rising to influential editorial positions.
She however made some recommendations which included, “Strengthening Capacity Building ,
Protection and Support for Journalists , Collaboration with Civil Society, Inclusion in Policy Making ”
Atuonwu noted that the fight against GBV is a collective responsibility, saying, “as female journalists, we must continue to speak truth to power, challenge injustice, and use our platforms to drive change. Our voices matter, our stories matter, and our commitment to a just society matters. By reporting courageously and ethically, we can help break the silence around GBV and create a safer South East Nigeria for women and girls.”, she said.
Pix: Aninwagwa
In her remarks, the former Chairperson of NAWOJ,Enugu state chapter and Former Vice President NAWOJ, South East zone, Chieso Aninwagwa, frowned at various forms of violence against the female gender. She encouraged women Journalists to report such cases and ensure culprits were brought to book.
She urged women Journalists to build their capacity and utilize every opportunity they had to empower themselves. She also them to be responsible, approach things peacefully , learn skills and build a legacy for themselves
Pix: Sam Udekwe , NUJ chairman
Chairman , Nigeria Union of Journalists,Enugu state Council, Sam Udekwe, commended NAWOJ for organizing the workshop. He assured the continuous support of the State council . He urged women Journalists to always build their capacity to enhance efficiency in the in jobs
Earlier in her welcome address, the Chairperson of NAWOJ, Enugu state Chapter, Ngozi Ngene said the workshop was aimed at enhancing the women Journalists’ storytelling capabilities, amplify their voice, and advance their careers.
“As women journalists, we recognize the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest digital trends to excel in our careers. Our organization has been committed to supporting women’s empowerment, education, and well-being through various programs, including our Pregnancy Journey Education and Support initiative, which provides vital resources and community support to expectant mothers.
She noted that the event marked an important milestone in NAWOJ ‘s efforts to support women journalists.
“We believe that by providing you with the right tools and training, you will be better equipped to tell the stories that need to be told and make your voices heard”, she said..She thanked members of the committee for organising the program and Governor Peter Mbah for his support .
Author: Maureen Ikpeama