By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Bayelsa State Chapter, has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the welfare of women, children, and other vulnerable groups following the inauguration of a new executive council for another three-year term.
The triennial conference and inauguration ceremony, held at the Ernest Ikoli Press Centre, Azikoro Road, Ekeki, Yenagoa, saw the re-election and swearing-in of Mrs. Grace Orumieyefa as Chairperson, alongside other executive members who will serve a second term.
In his remarks, 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 NAWOJ for its resilience, professionalism, and contributions to society.
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Dr. Angese praised the association’s outreach programmes in schools and communities, noting that they complement the efforts of the NUJ. He also applauded the peaceful and unopposed election process, describing it as a reflection of unity and transparency essential for the growth of professional bodies.
Inaugurating the new executive, the Vice President of NAWOJ Zone F, Mrs. Stella Macaulay, described the Bayelsa chapter as one of the most peaceful and united in the zone. She urged members to continue supporting one another and to amplify the voices of women in leadership and governance.
Mrs. Macaulay also emphasized the need for solidarity among female journalists, urging them to remain committed to promoting women’s rights and societal development through responsible journalism.
A legal practitioner, Mrs. Diseye Egberipou, administered the oath of office and charged the new executives to uphold integrity, accountability, and dedication in carrying out their responsibilities.
In her acceptance speech, Mrs. Orumieyefa expressed appreciation to members for re-electing her, describing her 15-year journey in NAWOJ—from Treasurer to Vice Chairperson and now Chairperson—as one built on mentorship, teamwork, and service.
She pledged to build on the achievements of past administrations by strengthening advocacy for women, children, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups. She also promised to prioritize capacity building, professional development, and strategic partnerships to enhance the impact of women journalists in the state.
Mrs. Orumieyefa further called for unity and collective responsibility among members, stressing that the success of the association depends on shared commitment.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the NUJ Bayelsa State Council Chairman, Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha, the Council’s Financial Secretary, Mr. Theophilus Agidee, praised the peaceful transition and commended NAWOJ members for their role in highlighting issues affecting women and vulnerable groups.
Former NAWOJ Zone F Vice President, Mrs. Timinepre Jombo-Idoko, congratulated the new executives and urged them to work in unity to achieve the association’s goals.
Similarly, former Bayelsa NAWOJ Chairperson, Mrs. Maria Olodi-Osumah, commended the prevailing unity within the association, while former Zone F BOT member and Director in the Bayelsa State Newspaper Corporation (Newwave), Madam Peace Sinclair, called for continued support for the new leadership to consolidate on its achievements.
The newly inaugurated executive members 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.
