A Professor of Mass Communication at the University of Ilorin, Prof. Saudat Abdulbaqi, has called on women journalists to harmonise their professional roles with Islamic principles.

This appeal was made during the inaugural Ramadan Symposium organised by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Kwara State Chapter, held on Saturday in Ilorin. Speaking on the topic "The Future of Women in Journalism: How Ramadan Can Be a Time for Reflection and Growth," she emphasised the importance of challenging stereotypes surrounding Muslim women in the media.

Prof. Abdulbaqi encouraged female journalists to adhere to Islamic teachings that advocate for the truthful pursuit and dissemination of knowledge, while maintaining high standards of professionalism in their work. She highlighted the potential of Ramadan as a period for introspection and personal development, urging participants to use the holy month to enhance their careers and align them with religious values.

“There are already stereotypes about women in journalism, and as Muslim women, we face double challenges.

“Many believe women are unfit for competitive roles or important responsibilities due to perceived limitations,” she said.

She noted that such biases hinder career growth and reduce trust in women’s ability to execute their duties effectively.

“We must dispel these misconceptions by maintaining professionalism while adhering to Islamic teachings,” she said.

She emphasised the role of Muslim women journalists in promoting peace by embodying the values prescribed in the Hadith and the Quran.

“Journalism demands strategic planning, and as women with multiple responsibilities, we must organise ourselves to excel in both personal and professional roles,” she advised.

She urged women to carry themselves with humility, allowing their actions to reflect Islamic values rather than verbalising their worth.

Abdulbaqi also encouraged them to engage in global discussions on issues affecting women in journalism, as collective efforts yield quicker results.

She further advised women journalists never to compromise their faith for worldly gains, urging them to uphold integrity and justice.

The second guest speaker, Hajia Khadijah Imam, speaking on Roles of Muslim Women during Ramadan, warned against gossip and backbiting, which diminish spiritual rewards.

She encouraged women to engage in supplication and praises of Allah rather than indulging in conversations that incur divine displeasure.

The Chief Press Secretary to Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, urged journalists to educate young couples on mental health management.

Represented by the SSA to the Governor on Communications, Mr Abdul-lateef Ibrahim, Ajakaye commended their contributions at home, in journalism, and towards governance.

The Chairman of the National League of Veteran Journalists (NALVEJ), Alhaji Tunde Akanbi, called for a campaign against the rising divorce rate.

He emphasised the need for women to be more tolerant, describing them as the pillars of the home.

The wife of Kwara Governor, Mrs Olufolake AbdulRazaq, urged Muslim journalists to reshape negative perceptions of Islam through their reporting.

Represented by the Commissioner for Environment, Mrs Nafisat Buge, she highlighted the challenges of fake news and the need for truth in journalism.

“We must balance professional ethics with Islamic principles, as Islam is a way of life that should not be compromised,” she said.