By Nkem Nnadozie
LAGOS/Nigeria: In a momentous stride toward fostering gender diversity and inclusivity in the Nigerian media industry, the National Guild of Radio Managers (Private), representing General Managers, Station Heads/Managers, and MDs of private Radio Broadcast Stations, has officially adopted the “100 Women in Leadership Virtual Summit Policy” (#LightRay!100WiMLPolicy), a groundbreaking initiative introduced by LightRay! Media.
The #LightRay!100WiMLPolicy, a pioneering document tailored for adoption by media professionals, media organization owners, and management, signifies a significant milestone in the pursuit of empowering women within the media landscape. This forward-thinking policy acknowledges the pivotal role women play in shaping narratives, perspectives, and voices in the media sector and is specifically designed to establish a more inclusive and equitable working environment.
In stark contrast to conventional guidelines, this policy stands as a dynamic response to the ever-evolving dynamics within the media landscape. It equips media organizations with the necessary tools and insights required to ensure gender mainstreaming and cultivate a gender-balanced media environment. By advocating for fairness, diversity, and equity in news reporting, the policy calls for inclusivity at all levels of media management.
The decision by the National Guild of Radio Managers (Private) to embrace the “100 Women in Leadership Virtual Summit Policy” underscores their steadfast commitment to advancing the welfare and progress of their members while simultaneously advocating for a more inclusive and equitable media landscape. Amb. Patrick Uzoyi-Peters JP, the National President of the Guild, praised the initiative, emphasizing the significance of providing equal opportunities for all practitioners in the industry, regardless of their gender, race, or background.
The adoption of this policy also signals the Guild’s intention to integrate its key provisions into its operational framework and bylaws, further solidifying its dedication to equality, equity, and fairness within the media industry.
This collaborative endeavour between the National Guild of Radio Managers (Private) and LightRay! Media has garnered positive feedback and is poised to have a profound impact on the media industry in Nigeria and the broader sub-Saharan region. It serves as a resounding testament to the industry’s unwavering commitment to creating a more inclusive, equitable, and gender-balanced media landscape.
About the National Guild of Radio Managers (Private):
The National Guild of Radio Managers (Private) represents the interests of General Managers, Station Heads/Managers, and MDs of private Radio Broadcast Stations in Nigeria. It is dedicated to advancing the welfare and progress of its members while promoting a more inclusive and equitable media landscape.
The Convener of the Summit, Executive Director of LightRay Media, is a Fellow of Report Women Leadership, African Women in Journalism, Code for Africa WanaData, Awardee of Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism REWON, and a Pulitzer Centre Recognized Investigative Journalist.
