The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Women Broadcasters’ Forum (Nigeria and Diaspora), a body of female broadcasters advocating for the rights and welfare of women in society.
The Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, gave the assurance while receiving members of the forum during a courtesy visit to the Ministry.
Dr. Olatubosun commended the move to formally inaugurate the forum, describing it as a platform that will give women and other vulnerable groups a stronger voice in society.
He, however, advised the forum to put the right structures in place that will stand the test of time, and to work closely with other women journalists’ associations to sustain its vision and programmes.
The Commissioner also pledged the support of the Oyo State Government for the forum’s activities and future plans.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, commended the courage of the women broadcasters for championing the cause of women in the profession and the female gender as a whole.
Similarly, the General Manager of the Oyo State Council for Arts and Culture, Mr. Kunle Agboola, expressed delight at the development and encouraged the group to expand its membership across other media professional bodies, including the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU)
Responding, the President of the forum, Mrs. Tolani Aladelaja, explained that the group had been in existence for some time but felt it was important to formally introduce its activities to a wider audience of media professionals.
According to her, the forum serves as a voice for women, the vulnerable, and victims of domestic violence in both rural and urban communities.
“Our mission is to be the voice of the voiceless and the vulnerable, while advocating against all forms of violence affecting women and other disadvantaged groups,” she said.
Mrs. Aladelaja noted that the purpose of the visit was to formally introduce the forum to the Oyo State Government and to invite the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, to its inauguration scheduled for June 20, 2026.
She further disclosed that the forum currently has about 85 members drawn from various media houses across Oyo State.
She added that, after the inauguration, plans are underway to expand its presence by establishing chapters in other states of the federation
In solidarity with the families of the abductees in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, the forum also announced plans to hold a three-day prayer and fasting session for their safe return.
