Kwara First Lady Urges Muslim Women Journalists to Promote Positive Islam Representation

March 15, 025 – Nigeria – 

In March 2025, Amb. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, the First Lady of Kwara State, Nigeria, addressed Muslim women journalists during the inaugural Ramadan symposium organized by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in Ilorin. Represented by the state’s Commissioner for Environment, Hajiya Nafisat Buge, Mrs. Abdulrazaq emphasized the importance of positive media representation to counteract misconceptions about Islam.

The First Lady expressed concern over the commercialization of the media, which has led to the proliferation of fake news. She urged journalists to uphold the truth, balancing professional ethics with Islamic principles, as Islam is a way of life that should not be compromised by one’s profession.

Professor Saudat Abdulbaqi, a former head of the Department of Mass Communication at the University of Ilorin, delivered a lecture titled “The Future of Women in Journalism: How Ramadan Can Be a Time for Reflection and Growth.” She highlighted the dual challenges faced by Muslim women journalists—gender and religious stereotypes—and encouraged them to use their platforms to dispel these myths through factual reporting aligned with Islamic teachings.

Hajia Khadijah Abdulsalam Imam, another guest speaker, discussed the roles of Muslim women during Ramadan, advising against gossip and backbiting, which diminish the rewards of good deeds. She encouraged women to engage in supplications and praises of Allah to earn rewards.

The symposium also featured contributions from Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, Chief Press Secretary to Governor AbdulRahman Abdulrazaq, who commended Muslim women journalists for their roles at home, in the profession, and in supporting the government. He encouraged them to educate young couples on managing mental health.

The event underscored the pivotal role of Muslim women journalists in shaping perceptions of Islam and promoting societal harmony through responsible and ethical journalism.

Reference – 

https://leadership.ng/kwara-first-lady-tasks-women-journalists-to-project-islam-positively/

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