The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos State Chapter, has honoured the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), Motunrayo Alaka, as its Iconic Woman of the Month for June, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to investigative journalism, press freedom and women empowerment.
The recognition celebrates Alaka's years of dedication to strengthening investigative journalism in Nigeria and across Africa, while championing gender equality and creating opportunities for women to excel in the media profession.
Through her leadership at the WSCIJ, Alaka has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at promoting quality journalism, transparency and accountability. One of the centre's flagship programmes, Report Women!, has trained and supported hundreds of female journalists, encouraging gender-balanced reporting and preparing women for leadership roles in newsrooms.
Announcing the recognition, the Chairperson of NAWOJ Lagos, Jumoke Falayi Johnson, described Alaka as a transformational leader whose commitment to ethical journalism and capacity development continues to inspire a new generation of media professionals.
According to her, the award acknowledges women who are making significant contributions in their respective fields while serving as role models for others.
"Motunrayo Alaka is not just a leader; she is a builder of people and a beacon of integrity in the media landscape. Her dedication to fostering gender equity and mentoring the next generation of investigative journalists makes her a thoroughly deserving recipient of this honour for the month of June," Johnson said.
She explained that the NAWOJ Lagos Iconic Woman of the Month initiative was created to celebrate outstanding Nigerian women who continue to break barriers, inspire excellence and contribute meaningfully to national development through their professions and community service.
Alaka joins an impressive list of distinguished recipients, including Reverend Mother Esther Abimbola Ajayi, Dr. Abimbola Abosede Oyetunde, Mrs. Sola Salako-Ajulo, Professor Abigail Ogwezzy Ndisika, and the late Alhaja Kudirat Olayinka Abiola, who was honoured posthumously.
NAWOJ Lagos congratulated the WSCIJ Executive Director on the recognition and wished her continued success as she advances investigative journalism, promotes press freedom and empowers more women across the media industry.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to recognising women whose leadership, integrity and professional achievements continue to shape society and inspire future generations.
SEO Title: NAWOJ Lagos Honours WSCIJ CEO Motunrayo Alaka as June Iconic Woman