Every May 28 marks world menstrual hygiene day, it’s a day to raise awareness about the importance of good menstrual hygiene, ensure access to menstrual products for all, and break the stigmas associated with menstruation. But it’s quite unfortunate we are yet to achieve this, especially in Nigeria.
Photo Credit: Alexander Sergienko.
The protest, a testament to the power of unity and collective action, sent a clear message to the government: that the intimidation and harassment of journalists will no longer be tolerated. The arbitrary arrests, detentions, and harassment of journalists have become all too familiar in Nigeria, with many facing trumped-up charges and intimidation tactics for simply doing their job.
By Collins Odigie Ojiehanor
The #DontPoliceMySpeech protest at the Federal Ministry of Justice saw a remarkable turnout! We were thrilled to see a large number of young journalists, under 30, passionately advocating for press freedom. The significant representation of women, outnumbering men, was an encouraging sign of a brighter future for journalism an women’s advocacy within the media landscape. As we fight for the rights of journalists and citizens alike, it’s heartening to see the next generation of journalists stepping up to carry the baton. Together, we’ll ensure the power of the pen and voice never fades. #All4One&One4All” – ED, LightRay! Media.
Rethinking victimhood, Umukoro advocates for a culture of mental resilience and emotional empowerment.
Press freedom and literature are interconnected in several ways, and foremost of which, is Freedom of Expression. Press freedom is a fundamental right that allows journalists and writers to express themselves without censorship or fear of retribution. Literature, as a form of creative expression, also relies on this freedom to explore ideas, themes, and stories without restriction.
Press Freedom and literature also interconnects with regards to Access to Information. A free press ensures that citizens have access to accurate and unbiased information, which is essential for informed public discourse. Literature, in turn, can provide unique perspectives and insights into the human experience, fostering empathy and understanding.
Press Freedom and literature is about Holding Power Accountable. Press freedom enables journalists to hold those in power accountable for their actions as clearly directed by Section 22 of the Nigeria constitution as an important requirement of journalists.
Literature can also serve as a means of social commentary and critique, challenging societal norms and political systems.
Press Freedom and literature is also about Cultural Preservation and Promotion. Literature is a vital part of cultural heritage, and press freedom helps ensure that diverse voices and stories are represented and preserved. This allows literature to continue shaping culture, influencing public opinion, and inspiring future generations.
Journalism as Literature allows the creative mental space for some journalists and writers to blend the lines between reporting and storytelling, using literary techniques to convey complex issues and human experiences. This intersection highlights the importance of press freedom in enabling writers to craft compelling narratives that inform and engage the public.
It is this reason, we believe inspired the United States Agency for Global Media to commemorate the World Press Freedom Day focused on bringing journalists from across the continents to discuss the book, DISTORTION by Ejiro Umukoro.
Human rights lawyer, lecturer at Unilag, Converner of Womanifesto and Founder of WARDC, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi out of 140 applications, joins the top 17 others selected for the tasks ahead.
The Power of Literary Influences: The undeniable force of literary influences shapes writers in profound ways. From childhood stories to classic novels, these formative experiences leave indelible marks on an author’s creative journey. Whether it’s the whimsical worlds of Roald Dahl or the poignant prose of Toni Morrison, these early encounters with literature mold a writer’s voice, themes, and style.
Acculturation and Mask-Wearing — the process of adapting to a new culture—often leads to complex identities. As individuals navigate cultural shifts, they may don metaphorical masks to fit in or protect themselves. These masks, however, can seep into their storytelling.
Writers grapple with the tension between authenticity and assimilation, resulting in narratives that sometimes feel strained or inauthentic. The struggle of writers’ block: Imagine a writer staring at a blank page, grappling with self-doubt and creative paralysis.
The weight of cultural expectations, personal history, and literary influences can contribute to this dreaded phenomenon known as writer’s block. The struggle to find one’s authentic voice amid societal pressures can be both isolating and frustrating.
Misunderstood Identities in Fiction and Non-Fiction sees writers often wrestle with portraying identities accurately. Misunderstandings arise when cultural nuances are oversimplified or misrepresented. Whether crafting fictional characters or penning memoirs, authors must navigate the delicate balance between universal truths and individual experiences. Authenticity matters, especially when addressing complex issues like colonization and identity.
Unveiling the Masks: “I Am Not Colonized” powerfully expressed by Lady E Ejiro Umukoro in a powerful webinar tagged: The Power of Your Book featuring international authors and publishers, bears upon our minds a clear rallying cry: “I am not colonized.” This call-to-action encourages writers to shed the masks imposed by history, society, and literary norms. By unveiling their true selves, authors can create narratives that defy stereotypes, challenge misconceptions, and celebrate diverse voices.
At LightRay! Media, we believe that every writer’s journey is unique, shaped by personal experiences, literary influences, and the courage to reveal their unmasked truth. Enjoy this special Power of Your Book 2024 Webinar.
Cultism remains a pervasive issue in Nigerian secondary schools, affecting both male and female students. However, the aggressive drive to recruit more young female students in secondary schools across Nigeria has hit its tipping point as John Maxwell in his behavioural book, “The Tipping Point” would describe a critical human phenomenon that has turned into a vice or menace.
Benita Wabawonku, an ND Campus Reporter writes more on the interview at TV360 with Lady E Ejiro Umukoro, the investigative journalist who uncovered the aggressive recruitment of young female students into cultism and gansterism.
Challenges the over-dependence on AI generated stories while inspiring the next generation of young female journalists to take on the baton of media reporting and storytelling based on high ethics and practices of journalism.
In this special series on the Emerging Young Women in Media and PRAD Initiative by LightRay!, we share the story of Elizabeth Oluwaseyi Jimoh, whose journey into media, specifically print media, within a shrinking landscape in Nigeria, takes us on a journey of self introspection and the joys of a solitary journey in a post graduate course.
Sip some agbo drink and enjoy this feature (wink!)
For Ijeoma Okereke-Adagba, 2024 is a year she wants to engage with so much energy and passion. Her inner drive stems from being more intentional about her career and personal growth like never before – she’s a girl on fire!
But what’s her focus? She intends to grow partnerships, strengthen her networks and relationships while on the look out for opportunities that will continue to help her raise the bar for herself.
In this special LightRay! Young Women in Media Leadership Series of the African and Global Women in Media Leadership Initiative by LightRay!, Ijeoma Okereke-Adagba takes us on her journey as she talks about how very positive she is about more big wins for the year. Enjoy the insights she shares with a sip of your favourite juice.