NAWOJ Bayelsa Re-Elects Orumieyefa, Renews Commitment to Women, Children’s Welfare
By Ebis Freeman, YENAGOA – The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Bayelsa State Chapter, has reaffirmed its commitment to championing the welfare of women, children and vulnerable groups following the inauguration of a new executive council to steer the affairs of the association for another three-year term.
The resolution was reinforced during the NAWOJ Triennial Conference and Inauguration of State Executives held at the Ernest Ikoli Press Centre, Azikoro Road, Ekeki, Yenagoa, where Mrs. Grace Orumieyefa was re-elected and inaugurated as Chairperson alongside other members of the executive council for a second term.
Speaking at the event, the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) South-South Zone F and Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Bayelsa State Council, Dr. John Angese, commended the Bayelsa NAWOJ chapter for its resilience, professionalism and impactful contributions to society.
Dr. Angese particularly praised the association’s outreach programmes in schools and communities, describing them as initiatives that complement the efforts of the NUJ in promoting social development and public enlightenment.
He also lauded the peaceful and rancour-free election process that returned the executive members unopposed, stressing that unity, transparency and mutual respect remain essential for the growth and sustainability of professional organisations.
Inaugurating the newly elected executives, NAWOJ Zone F Vice President, Mrs. Stella Macaulay, described the Bayelsa chapter as one of the most peaceful and united in the zone. She urged members to sustain the spirit of cooperation and continue amplifying the voices of women in leadership and governance.
Mrs. Macaulay emphasized the need for solidarity among female journalists and encouraged members to remain committed to advancing the cause of women and promoting societal development through responsible and ethical journalism.
Administering the oath of office, legal practitioner Mrs. Diseye Egberipou charged the executives to uphold integrity, accountability and dedication in the discharge of their responsibilities.
In her acceptance speech, the re-elected Chairperson, Mrs. Grace Orumieyefa, expressed appreciation to members for the confidence reposed in her leadership. She reflected on her more than 15-year journey in the association, rising from Treasurer to Vice Chairperson and eventually Chairperson, describing the experience as one shaped by mentorship, support and selfless service.
She pledged to build on the achievements of previous administrations by strengthening advocacy for women, children, persons living with disabilities and other vulnerable groups across the state.
Mrs. Orumieyefa also promised to prioritise capacity building, professional development and strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing the relevance and effectiveness of women journalists in Bayelsa State.
Calling for greater unity among members, she stressed that the success of the association would depend on collective responsibility, cooperation and unwavering support from all members.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Chairman of the NUJ Bayelsa State Council, Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha, the Council’s Financial Secretary, Mr. Theophilus Agidee, commended the peaceful transition and praised female journalists for their role in highlighting issues affecting women and vulnerable groups in society.
Also speaking, former NAWOJ Zone F Vice President, Mrs. Timinepre Jombo-Idoko, congratulated the newly inaugurated executives and urged members to work collectively in supporting the Chairperson to achieve the association’s goals.
Former Bayelsa NAWOJ Chairperson, Mrs. Maria Olodi-Osumah, commended the unity within the association and encouraged members to sustain the prevailing spirit of cooperation. Similarly, former Zone F Board of Trustees member and Director at the Bayelsa State Newspaper Corporation (Newwave), Madam Peace Sinclair, called on members to continue supporting the leadership to consolidate on its achievements.
Other members of the newly inaugurated executive council include Mrs. Blessing Agadaga-Oti as Vice Chairperson, Mrs. Eyel Ikisikpo-Banabo as Secretary, Mrs. Deintei Otavie-Ugiri as Assistant Secretary, Mrs. Patience Nicks-Osuoto as Treasurer and Mrs. Peregborobofa Angese-Engonanabo as Financial Secretary.
The event attracted journalists, labour leaders, legal practitioners, former NAWOJ executives and stakeholders who applauded the association’s continued commitment to advocacy, professional excellence and social development.
