By Zainab Tanimu
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Kaduna State Chapter, has reaffirmed its dedication to promoting justice, compassion, and social change through advocacy and community service.
During a visit to the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kaduna, the Chairperson of NAWOJ Kaduna, Comrade Sahura Jibrin Maidoki, pledged the association’s commitment to advocating for the speedy trial of female inmates with minor offences. She explained that many of these women remain in custody due to prolonged legal processes, despite their offences being minor and bailable.
Comrade Maidoki emphasized that the visit was part of NAWOJ’s broader mission to amplify the voices of vulnerable women through impactful reportage and public advocacy. She appealed to government agencies, philanthropists, and civil society groups to support female inmates by facilitating access to legal aid and helping those with minor cases regain their freedom.
While receiving the journalists, the Assistant Controller of the Custodial Centre, Lawal Talle, commended NAWOJ for the thoughtful visit, noting that such gestures remind inmates that society still cares about their welfare. He added that the centre continues to uphold its mandate of reforming and rehabilitating offenders, with several inmates engaged in skill acquisition and others pursuing education through the National Open University of Nigeria.
As part of the visit, NAWOJ donated essential items such as slippers, bathing soap, toilet rolls, detergents, underwear, and baby diapers to support the female inmates.
The outreach formed part of NAWOJ Kaduna’s three-day program themed “Voices of Impact 2025: Women, Media & Social Change.”
In continuation of the activities, the association organized a free medical outreach for residents of Sabon Gero community in Chikun Local Government Area, benefiting more than 200 people, mostly women and children.
The medical mission provided free consultations, laboratory tests, and essential medications, including eye and ear check-ups, malaria and typhoid screenings, deworming treatments, and distribution of sanitary pads, vitamin supplements, and paracetamol. Drugs worth over ₦500,000 were distributed to residents at no cost.
Speaking at the event, Comrade Maidoki described the outreach as part of NAWOJ’s continuous effort to uplift underprivileged communities and promote public health.
“Our goal is to bring healthcare closer to those who cannot afford hospital visits or buy drugs,” she said. “Health is the foundation of life, and through this initiative, we hope to improve the well-being of our people.”
She expressed joy over the massive turnout, describing it as a testament to NAWOJ’s growing reputation for trust and impact. She also commended members and the executive council for their teamwork, which ensured the success of the program.
During the outreach, a child in urgent need of medical attention was identified, and Comrade Maidoki assured that NAWOJ would take up the case with the relevant authorities for swift intervention.
She further called on the Kaduna State Government to collaborate with NAWOJ on future health and social programs, emphasizing that media partnership can strengthen the impact of public health campaigns across communities.
Former NAWOJ Kaduna Chairperson, Mrs. Jummai Yarima, praised the current leadership for sustaining the association’s legacy of service and urged them to continue their life-changing interventions.
The Secretary of NAWOJ Kaduna, Comrade Hadiza Abdullahi Bello, appreciated the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, ENT specialists, Sight Savers, and iMac for their collaboration and support.
Community leaders in Sabon Gero, including the Ward Head and Youth Leader, expressed deep gratitude to NAWOJ for the outreach, describing it as a timely and life-saving intervention for many families. They called on other organizations to emulate the journalists’ humanitarian spirit.
Through its dual commitment to advocacy and social service, NAWOJ Kaduna continues to stand as a beacon of compassion—giving voice to the voiceless, empowering women, and promoting healthier, stronger communities across the state.
