Media organisations championing women’s representation honoured at ReportHer Awards 2025

The Women Radio 91.7 FM in collaboration with Ford Foundation and Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) on Friday recognised outstanding media organisations for demonstrating exceptional commitment to gender equity and women’s representation in journalism.

Penpushing reports that the award ceremony which earlier featured training of editors tagged,’ ReportHer Training, as well as presentation of certificates to the participating editors, with the competition  across four key categories reflecting crucial areas for improving women’s representation in Nigerian media was held in Lagos.

The Chief Executive Officer of Wole Soyinka centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) Motunrayo Alaka in her remarks explained that the centre has for 20 years championed courageous, inclusive journalism that empowers reporters

Penpushing further reports that she added that this was to strengthen media leadership and advances gender and social equity through collaborations, training, fellowships, mentorship, the Report Women programme and the Wole Soyinka Award for Investigative Reporting.

The Chief Executive Officer of Women Radio Toun Okewale Sonaiya in her speech pointed out that since 2015, the radio station which is Nigeria’s only female-centric radio station, has been a powerful tool for women’s development, rights and inclusive governance.

Penpushing also reports that she explained that through initiatives which include NimiAI, Nigeria’s first AI radio host supporting women with real-time tailored assistance; ReportHer trainings through the Women Radio Centre training female journalists in investigative reporting; media dialogues amplifying women’s stories; and the annual Voice of Women Conference and Awards, Nigeria’s largest inclusive convening advancing women’s leadership and grassroots influence

The organizer commended the media outlets for examining the social, cultural, legal and political drivers of gender-defined survival issues through ethical, accurate and solutions-driven reporting.

Penpushing reports that Premium Times won the Excellence in Gender Based Violence (GBV) Reporting category for its accountability-focused investigative reporting on gender-based violence, reproductive justice and gender-policy issues

The BONews Service clinched the Excellence in Inclusive Advocacy and Reportage award for its balanced, fair and nuanced media coverage promoting gender equality, disability inclusion and social justice.

Penpushing further reports that In the Excellence in Pro-Women Workplace Policy category, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) emerged winner for implementing supportive policies including six-month maternity leave, two-hour reduction in daily work hours for six months after resumption from maternity leave, 14 days of paternity leave, creche facilities in its Abuja headquarters and Lagos office, and light duty work options for nursing workers.

The Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRSCN) won the Excellence in Female Leadership Representation award, with 70 per cent of management leadership positions headed by women, 11 women serving as heads of department in the corporation committee of management, and six women occupying deputy director positions across station regional offices.

Penpushing also reports that the organisers stated that while one winner emerged per category, every media house committed to fair and balanced reporting was acknowledged and celebrated.

The Women Radio, Ford Foundation and Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) thanked editors, reporters, producers, digital storytellers and cartoonists whose dedication ensures that women’s voices are heard, respected and represented.

Penpushing reports that the organisers  emphasised that the initiative aims to strengthen media accountability and foster a sustained culture of gender-inclusive reporting across the country.

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