On March 8, 2026, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Federal Capital Territory Council, launched a public advocacy campaign with a clear, singular demand: Nigeria must invest more in its women. The union's statement, titled 'Give To Gain,' positions the issue not as a matter of social welfare but as a foundational economic and developmental strategy. This call from a key professional body representing media workers in the nation's capital signals a shift in how gender equity is being framed in public discourse.
The Economic Rationale Behind 'Give To Gain'
The NUJ FCT Council's argument hinges on a direct correlation between investment and return. The union contends that allocating resources to women's education, healthcare, and economic empowerment yields disproportionate dividends for society at large. This perspective moves beyond moral appeals to present a pragmatic case built on evidence of improved outcomes in communities where women have greater access to capital and opportunity.
Journalists as Witnesses and Advocates
Journalists in Abuja are uniquely positioned to observe the consequences of underinvestment. Through their reporting on health, education, and business, NUJ FCT members witness firsthand the systemic barriers women face and the potential that remains untapped. Their professional mandate to inform the public now includes an explicit call to action, suggesting the media sees itself as a catalyst for this policy shift.
Targeting Policy and Perception
The timing of the statement, issued on International Women's Day, is designed to leverage global attention on gender issues. However, the primary audience is domestic: policymakers and business leaders who prioritize measurable outcomes. The 'Give To Gain' formulation reframes the conversation around mutual benefit, arguing that society gains a more robust workforce, healthier families, and more resilient local economies.
The union's stance implies that current levels of funding and support for women's initiatives are insufficient to drive the transformation Nigeria seeks. By presenting the case through an economic lens, the NUJ FCT aims to shift the debate from obligation to opportunity.
