Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), through its NLNGChangeYourStory series, has equipped Nigerian female journalists with cutting-edge digital communication and social media skills for reporting gender-based issues.
The annual capacity-building workshop, which took place from January 30 to February 1, 2024, convened women journalists from diverse editorial sections and members of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in Lagos.
Sponsored by NLNG, the workshop focused on mobile and multimedia journalism, providing participants with a comprehensive learning experience.
NLNG’s General Manager of External Relations and Sustainable Development, Mr. Andy Odeh, in his opening remarks, emphasized that the focus on gender-related journalism aligns with NLNG’s commitment to Diversity, Equality, and Inclusiveness, both within and outside the organization.
Odeh said the crucial role of women journalists in shaping narratives and influencing public opinion for a better Nigeria, adding, “Our dedication to capacity building stems from the belief in the immense potential of women journalists. Recognizing their pivotal role in shaping narratives, influencing public opinion, and contributing to sustainable development goals, we empower them with essential skills to reshape their stories and, consequently, mold the stories of our nation.”
He emphasized the workshop’s significance in empowering women journalists with essential skills in the dynamic landscape of digital communication and social media, stating that the #NLNGChangeYourStory workshop, initiated in 2015, reflects NLNG’s vision of embracing new technologies and platforms to articulate narratives that resonate in the fast-paced digital age.
Odeh added that the workshop manifested NLNG’s belief that stakeholders are integral contributors to the company’s journey towards greater heights.
The National Chairperson of NAWOJ, Aisha Bura Ibrahim, represented by the association’s National Deputy Chairperson, Lilian Okokwo Ogabu, stated that women journalists need to be positioned for the future in reporting the realities of women and children, especially the girl-child, in Nigeria. She commended NLNG for supporting the women with digital communication skills that will bring them to par with contemporaries around the world.
The workshop, delivered by seasoned journalist Mr. Dan Mason in collaboration with The Journalism Clinic, led by Mr. Taiwo Obe, proved to be a transformative experience for the participating journalists. Leveraging their wealth of knowledge and experience, these experts adeptly guided participants through the nuances of digital communication and social media, empowering them to take control of their narratives and shape the nation’s stories.