From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin.
Muslim women journalists, have been encouraged to uphold ethical journalism, while balancing their professional duties with Islamic teachings to dispel negative stereotypes in the media industry.
This call was made by a Professor of Mass Communication at the University of Ilorin, Professor Saudat Abdulbaqi, during the maiden Ramadan symposium, organised by the Kwara Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), in Ilorin.
Speaking on “The Future of Women in Journalism: How Ramadan Can Be a Time for Reflection and Growth,” Prof. Abdulbaqi, highlighted the unique challenges faced by Muslim women in journalism, noting that they often contend with gender-based stereotypes and religious biases.
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“Already, there are stereotypes about women in journalism, and for Muslim women, it is like facing double jeopardy. People assume we have limitations and cannot handle competitive roles. This perception has hindered our career growth and the trust reposed in us,” she stated.
She urged female Muslim journalists to uphold professionalism while aligning their work with Islamic values.
“Our duty is to dispel these misconceptions through ethical journalism. We must present ourselves with humility and let our work showcase our worth rather than verbalising it. Let our attitude and work ethics preach Islam,” she added.
Prof. Abdulbaqi also encouraged them to engage in global discussions about the challenges facing women in the profession, emphasising that collective action yields faster results than individual struggles.
Another guest lecturer, Hajia Khadijah Imam, who spoke on “Roles of Muslim Women During Ramadan,” cautioned against gossip and backbiting, urging women to focus on acts that bring divine rewards.
In his remarks, the Chief Press Secretary to Kwara State Governor, Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, represented by the Senior Special Assistant (SSA), to the Governor on Communications, Abdullateef Ibrahim, charged Muslim women journalists with the responsibility of educating young couples on mental health management.
Similarly, the Chairman of the National League of Veteran Journalists (NALVEJ), Alhaji Tunde Akanbi, called on NAWOJ to initiate awareness campaigns on the rising rate of divorce, stating the need for tolerance among women as key builders of homes.
The wife of the Kwara State Governor, Mrs. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, represented by the Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Buge, urged Muslim women journalists to use their platforms to change negative perceptions about Islam.
“We live in an era where the media has been commercialised, and fake news is rampant. As Muslim women journalists, we must stand for the truth and ensure our reports reflect both the ethics of the profession and the teachings of Islam,” she said.
The symposium provided a platform for media professionals to reflect on their roles and reaffirm their commitment to ethical journalism in line with Islamic principles.
