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By Abdullahi Ahmed
A communication expert and General Manager of Radio Nigeria – Harmony FM, Idofian, Kwara State, Hajia Binta Abubakar Mora, has stressed the importance of strategic media engagement for women in politics, describing it as a powerful tool for visibility, credibility, and influence in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Presenting a paper titled “Media Engagement for Women Candidates in Politics” at a three-day training for female political party members in Ilorin, Kwara State Capital, Hajia Binta Mora noted that politics in Nigeria remains shaped by ethnicity, religion, party competition, and personality politics, but emphasized that effective use of media could help women overcome barriers and reposition themselves as credible front runners.
She explained that political communication, whether through rallies, campaigns, or digital platforms, has become central to mobilizing voters and shaping public opinion, with social media now overtaking traditional methods.
However, she cautioned against the dangers of misinformation, fake news, and hate speech, which could derail democratic engagement.
Mora underscored the watchdog role of the media in exposing corruption and electoral malpractices, noting that radio, television, print, and online platforms remain critical for civic education, accountability, and mobilization.
“The media not only sets the agenda but also informs, educates, and holds leaders accountable,” she said.
Highlighting the concept of constituent media engagement, she urged female politicians to embrace two-way communication with the electorate by using both traditional and digital channels.
“Women leaders must not only inform their constituents but also listen, respond, and build trust. That is how credibility is sustained,” Mora added.
On practical communication tools, she advised participants to adopt press releases, opinion pieces, interviews, and social media campaigns as means of influencing narratives and reaching wider audiences.
She also emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers.
Hajia Binta Abubakar Mora also urged women politicians to develop structured media engagement strategies that define clear objectives, identify target audiences, and deliver consistent messages.
According to her, this approach would not only enhance visibility but also strengthen democratic accountability and citizen participation.
The three-day training, themed “From Foot Soldiers to Front Runners,” brought together female party members from across Kwara State to equip them with the skills needed to transition from grassroots mobilizers to frontline political contenders.
