IWD 2026: NUJ FCT raises alarm over online harassment of female journalists

By Oguadimma Chisom 

As the world marks International Women’s Day 2026, the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) has spotlighted the growing challenge of online harassment faced by female journalists, calling for stronger protections and awareness around digital safety.

According to UNESCO, 73% of women journalists globally report experiencing online violence, including harassment, threats, and digital security attacks. In Nigeria, 45% of women have experienced cyberstalking, while 10.6% have faced doxing attacks often targeting women in public-facing roles such as journalists

In a video interview with CJID Project Officer, Osaruonamen Ibizugbe and Grace Ike, Chairperson of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council to coincide with International Women’s Day, Ike revealed that many women in media remain ill-prepared to respond to digital threats.

“Most of our female journalists do not really know what to do or how to address issues when they face harassment or intimidation online,” she said.

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Ike described the emotional and psychological toll of such attacks, citing her own experience during the NUJ FCT elections.

“Even after blocking hostile individuals, I still received threats through my email. Some even said they would help me ‘kiss my ambition goodbye’ if I did not step down,” she said, adding that she had to seek assistance from security agencies.

Ike emphasized the need for gender-responsive policies, digital risk assessment training, and psychological support for journalists facing harassment.

She also urged media organizations to provide stronger institutional backing to protect women in the industry. “There should be clear frameworks and guidelines on how these issues are reported and addressed. Organizations must let female journalists know that they are protected,” Ike said.

She highlighted the power of storytelling, explaining that sharing experiences helps educate and empower other journalists encountering similar challenges.

Ibizugbe commended initiatives by CJID and Journalists for Human Rights (JHR) that strengthen journalists’ capacity to handle digital threats. She stressed the need for more resources and sustained funding for these  programs.