Media stakeholders have emphasized the pivotal role of Media and Information Literacy (MIL) in empowering women and fostering a more equitable political landscape.

They made this known during a dialogue organized by the Media and Information Literacy and Intercultural Dialogue Foundation, MILID as part of activities to celebrate the International Women’s Day.

The Executive Director of MILID, Mrs Chiamaka Okafor, underscored the necessity for media outlets to reshape narratives and enhance the capacity of women and women’s groups, by utilizing the principles of media literacy to ensure inclusive reporting.

According to the Executive Director “The media plays a dominant role in defining the subordinate role that women play in politics and governance. The way the media construct the ability and capability of women. Which over time are expected as norms, including by women themselves, whose psycho is also defeated, determines the shape and level to which women can aspire”

Okafor emphasised “MILID Foundation believes that it is important to understand media messaging when it comes to inclusion, to reshape the narrative and build the capacity of women and women groups using the core principles of MIL, including critical thinking”

“The ability to access media and information, critical analysis and ability to produce media and information to create counter/ alternative narratives that gives women a chance and show in positive light their capacity and potential when included in politics and governance”, she said

The Publisher of the Premium Times, Mr. Dapo Olorunyomi stated that collaboration amongst media organizations, technology companies, government, and civil society organizations is crucial for the successfully implementation of Media and Information Literacy initiatives.

“Traditionally, Media and Information Literacy (MIL) plays a crucial role in public perceptions, influencing decision-making processes, and fostering civic engagement. When applied as a tool for women’s inclusion in politics and governance, MIL becomes instrumental in addressing gender disparities and promoting a more equitable and representative political landscape”

During a panel discussion, a member of the Kwara State House of Assembly representing Owode/Onire Constituency Rukayat Motunrayo and the Special Adviser to the President on Strategic Communication Linda Akihngbe, urged the media to be intentional in their portrayal of women in news coverage.

The Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Zissimosn Vergos, urged the national assembly to reconsider the five gender bills previously rejected by the previous assembly.

The theme of the dialogue is ” Media and Information Literacy as a tool for enhancing women’s inclusion in politics and governance”

Reporting by Hadiza Abdulrahman of Radio Nigeria; Editing by Daniel Adejo