Amplifying Voices: Key Reflections from the Mata Media Foundation Roundtable in Kano
On Saturday, April 11, 2026, the Mata Media Foundation, in collaboration with the Mata Media Organization, convened a timely and thought-provoking roundtable at the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) Office in Kano. The gathering brought together 20 female journalists, alongside virtual participants and observers from HumAngle and CITAD, to examine a critical issue: *the realities facing female journalists in Northern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 elections*.
As Nigeria approaches another pivotal electoral cycle, the roundtable created a safe and engaging space for women journalists to share their lived experiences, challenges, and aspirations. The discussions were rich, candid, and underscored both the urgency and the opportunity for meaningful intervention.
A Space for Honest Conversations
Participants spoke openly about the security risks they encounter in the line of duty—ranging from harassment and intimidation to the dangers of reporting in conflict-prone areas. Many highlighted that these risks often intensify during election periods, when tensions are high, and misinformation spreads rapidly.
Beyond physical safety, the conversation also explored digital threats, including online harassment and targeted attacks, which disproportionately affect women journalists.
Navigating Professional and Cultural Barriers
The roundtable shed light on persistent gender inequalities within media organisations, including limited leadership opportunities and unequal access to assignments. Several participants noted that female journalists are often sidelined from high-profile political reporting, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
Equally significant were the socio-cultural challenges discussed. Deeply rooted norms and expectations continue to shape women’s experiences in journalism, sometimes restricting mobility, access, and professional growth. Balancing family expectations with the demands of the profession remains a recurring concern.
Building Capacity for the 2027 Elections
A strong consensus emerged around the need for targeted capacity building. Participants emphasized the importance of training in areas such as conflict-sensitive reporting, fact-checking, and election coverage. There was also a call for improved access to resources, including safety equipment and reporting tools.
Observers from HumAngle and the Centre for Information Technology and Development contributed valuable insights, reinforcing the need for collaborative efforts between media organisations, civil society, and international partners.
Towards Action: Recommendations and Opportunities
The roundtable concluded with a set of forward-looking recommendations. These included establishing safety support systems for female journalists, mentorship and leadership development programs, and stronger advocacy for gender-inclusive policies within media institutions.
Participants also highlighted the importance of building networks and coalitions to amplify women’s voices and strengthen collective action ahead of the elections.
Looking Ahead
The Mata Media Foundation Roundtable marks an important step toward addressing the systemic challenges faced by female journalists in Northern Nigeria. As the 2027 elections draw closer, the insights and recommendations from this engagement offer a clear roadmap for stakeholders—including donors, policymakers, and media leaders—to take meaningful action.
By investing in the safety, capacity, and leadership of women journalists, we not only support gender equality but also strengthen the integrity and inclusiveness of Nigeria’s democratic process.
The conversation has begun—what remains now is sustained commitment and action.
