By: Miracle Chidinma Amaechi
In order to remain relevant and sought after, female journalists must embrace change and adapt to new industry dynamics. This was the message that resonated at the just concluded two-day Rivers State female journalists conference.The two-day conference was held on the 21st and 22nd of August, 2025, at the NUJ complex , Rivers State . Themed “Career Advancement Amidst Evolving Dynamics” organized by Step-up for Women in Journalism Initiative (SWIJ) in collaboration with the Common Ground Journalism Forum ( River State) and in Partnership with the Nigeria Union of Journalists and Media Career Development Network brought together reporters, editors and broadcasters from across the state to deliberate on how women in the media can grow their careers while responding to changes.
Discussions at the event focused on digital transformation, self-confidence and improvements, mentorships, and collaborations. The need for networking, continuous learning and up skilling were emphasized by one of the key speakers , Lilian Okonkwo - Ogabu, Deputy National President of National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) , as they are skills for career advancement in the media industry.
The challenges faced by these women were also highlighted and solutions proffered by the speakers.
In the course of this event , participants also benefited from a pre- conference virtual session on making impacts with solution journalism and the use of social media for peace building in communities that had many panellists.Dame Ibim Semenitari, a former Commissioner for Information in Rivers state, highlighted the growing dependence on AI in journalism, particularly in the field of investigative reporting. She emphasized that while AI can be a valuable tool to enhance the work , it should not replace the critical process of brainstorming and original thinking that lies at the heart of the profession.
Elizabeth Aduku, a member of Common Ground Journalism Forum and Development Partner with Foundation for Partnership Initiative in Niger Delta (PIND) stressed the need for journalists to understand digital tools and their applications, in order to report with conflict sensitivity. She also called on journalists to develop strong fact-checking skills to verify pictures and videos to prevent the spread of false stories that could fuel conflict. Elizabeth went further to mention tools like verify, mapping, and messaging that could aid a journalist to perform optimally.
The team lead for Step- Up for Women in Journalism Initiative (SWIJ) , Ann Godwin explained that a thriving career is not built on just academic papers or experiences alone but also on emotional intelligence, maturity and ability to connect.
She said, “Intelligence is not proven by how much you know but by how well you use what you know to improve yourself, fulfil purpose, and impact the society.”
Mr Sunny Dada, Mass Media and Information Management Coordinator, SFCG told participants at the conference to always ensure that the citizenry were properly informed about government policies, as it has a way of giving them hope. “Tell them about the steps that the government has taken, it gives the public hope for solution,” Dada said.
Meanwhile, the Executive Director of MCDN, Lekan Otufodunrin, in his contribution highlighted the importance of finding a niche , upgrading qualifications, setting clear goals through a mission board and staying visible in order to stand out and be easily recognized among numerous journalists.
The conference concluded with a shared resolve among participants to continuously adapt and sharpen their skills to stay relevant in journalism.
By: Miracle Chidinma Amaechi
