NLNG empowers women journalists to take centre stage with digital storytelling workshop

Recognizing the need for greater diversity and excellence in Nigerian journalism, Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) launched a workshop focused on empowering women journalists.

The three-day program, titled “NLNGGenderActive,” equipped participants with the latest mobile and multimedia storytelling techniques, aiming to amplify female voices in the media landscape.

Building on the success of the ‘ChangeYour Story’ program initiated in 2015, NLNG partnered with the Journalism Clinic led by Taiwo Obe and renowned media trainer, Dan Mason, to deliver the training.

It brought together no fewer than 30 female journalists from diverse editorial backgrounds, including Shulammite Olowofoyeku, Editor of Maritime Today Online.

They learned how to leverage social media platforms effectively, utilize AI tools to enhance content creation, and prioritize balanced and unbiased reporting.

Esteemed media trainer and consultant, Dan Mason, while speaking at the end of the workshop in Lagos on Thursday emphasized the critical issue of gender disparity in media representation.

“There’s not enough women represented, not enough women role models and experts,” he stated.

He expressed his belief that the NLNG GenderActive participants have the potential to “start to put that right” and ensure women have their rightful place as experts and role models.

Mason further highlighted the program’s impact on both journalism and audiences, stating, “Inclusivity not only benefits communities but also strengthens media businesses.”

He urged editors and decision makers in the news room to consider the power of gender in journalism, stating, “If you want to truly put fairness at the heart of your journalism, then you need to think about gender… You’re actually going to improve your journalism, your business case, and your potential audience.”

Also speaking, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development at NLNG, Andy Odeh, emphasized NLNG’s commitment to diversity and capacity building.

“We saw an opportunity to focus on women, aligning with our values of diversity and inclusion,” he said.

Odeh noted the importance of female journalists embracing personal branding and creating positive and engaging content.

“In today’s information age, understanding how to make your content interesting and accessible is crucial,” said Odeh.

He encouraged participants to “report fairness, report from all sides, and most importantly, report without bias.”

Following the workshop, Maritime Today Online Editor, Shulammite Olowofoyeku described her experience as transformative.

“The skills I’ve learned will enable me to tell stories more effectively and reach a wider audience,” she said. “I am now more determined to use my platform to highlight the experiences and challenges faced by women, especially in the maritime sector, and to promote equal opportunities.”

The NLNG GenderActive program serves as a powerful example of empowering women journalists and fostering a more diverse and representative media landscape in Nigeria.

Its potential to drive positive change is undeniable, and its call for wider adoption should be echoed throughout the industry.

Photo caption:

Renowned media trainer, Dan Mason ( left) and General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development at NLNG, Andy Odeh, presenting the NLNG Gender Active Certificate of Achievement to the Editor, Maritime Today Online, Shulammite Olowofoyeku, at the just concluded training workshop in Lagos on Thursday.