Council Commends MBNCWD Director-General’s Commitment to Women in Media, Disability Inclusion and Empowerment
Chioma Vivian James
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has congratulated the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development (MBNCWD), Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, on the occasion of her birthday, commending her commitment to advancing women’s leadership in the media and promoting inclusive development.
In a congratulatory statement signed by the NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, the Council praised Benjamins-Laniyi’s leadership, describing her tenure as one characterised by strategic vision, courage and a strong commitment to equity and social inclusion.
Ike noted that the MBNCWD Director-General has consistently championed initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for women, particularly in the media, where she has supported efforts to increase women’s representation in leadership positions.
According to her, Benjamins-Laniyi’s advocacy extends beyond promoting women’s advancement to mentoring aspiring female leaders and creating opportunities for women to contribute meaningfully to public discourse, policymaking and national development.
The NUJ FCT Chairman also highlighted her commitment to the inclusion of persons with disabilities, noting that her advocacy has encouraged greater institutional attention to accessibility, representation and equal opportunities.
Beyond her policy initiatives and advocacy, Ike said Benjamins-Laniyi is admired for her integrity, warmth and collaborative approach to leadership.
She added that the Director-General combines conviction with compassion, engaging stakeholders across different sectors while pursuing initiatives designed to empower communities, strengthen institutions and promote sustainable development.
As the 16th Director-General of the Centre, Benjamins-Laniyi has continued to advance its mandate in gender-responsive leadership, capacity development and advocacy for women’s empowerment.
The NUJ FCT Council commended her dedication to the professional growth of women in journalism, describing her efforts to promote female representation in media leadership as an important contribution to building a more inclusive and equitable media industry.
The Council further noted that her work has opened doors for women journalists and inspired a new generation of female professionals to aspire to leadership positions.
On the occasion of her birthday, the Council wished the Director-General good health, renewed strength and greater accomplishments in her personal and professional endeavours.
Ike reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to sustained collaboration with Benjamins-Laniyi in advancing gender equality, strengthening women’s leadership in the media and promoting empowerment and inclusion across Nigerian society.
The Council expressed optimism that continued partnerships among media organisations, government institutions and development stakeholders would further expand opportunities for women and other underrepresented groups.
