Muslim Women Journalists Urged to Challenge Stereotypes, Uphold Media Ethics
Muslim women journalists in Nigeria have been advised to maintain ethical journalism while balancing their professional responsibilities with Islamic values to counter negative stereotypes in the media industry.
This charge was given by a Professor of Mass Communication at the University of Ilorin, Prof. Saudat Salah Abdulbaqi, at the maiden Ramadan symposium organized 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 noted that Muslim women in journalism often face gender-based discrimination and religious bias, which limits their career progression.
“Women in journalism already face stereotypes, but for Muslim women, it’s even tougher. Many believe we are incapable of handling competitive roles, and this perception has slowed our career growth,” she stated.
She urged female Muslim journalists to counter these misconceptions by demonstrating professionalism and strong work ethics rather than merely arguing against bias.
“Our work should speak for us. Through ethical journalism, humility, and commitment to truth, we can reshape how people perceive Muslim women in the media,” she added.
Guest lecturer Hajia Khadijah Abdulsalam Imam, who spoke on “Roles of Muslim Women During Ramadan,” warned against gossip and urged women to focus on acts that yield divine rewards.
The Chief Press Secretary to Kwara State Governor, Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, represented by the SSA on Communications, Abdullateef Ibrahim, called on Muslim women journalists to educate young couples on mental health issues.
Similarly, the Chairman of the National League of Veteran Journalists (NALVEJ), Alhaji Tunde Akanbi, stressed the need for NAWOJ to lead awareness campaigns on the rising divorce rate, urging women to embrace tolerance as home builders.
The wife of the Kwara State Governor, Mrs. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, represented by the Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Buge, encouraged Muslim women journalists to use their platforms to reshape misconceptions about Islam.
“We are in an era where fake news thrives, and the media is highly commercialized. As Muslim women journalists, we must stand for truth and ensure our reports uphold both journalistic ethics and Islamic teachings,” she said.
The symposium provided a platform for media professionals to reflect on their roles and reaffirm their commitment to ethical journalism rooted in Islamic principles.
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