Abuja came alive on Tuesday, 26th May 2026, as a coalition of women organisations hosted a grand reception for veteran broadcaster and former NAWOJ president, Chief Mrs Moji Makanjuola, to celebrate her 70th birthday.
The event brought together dignitaries, journalists, women leaders, and advocacy groups such as Women of Worth Global, INWOAD, NAWOJ, NUJ, Commonwealth Business Women Africa, Ego Beke Foundation, Maryam Babangida Centre for Women Development, and the National Council for Women Societies, alongside other women bodies.
Former Minister of Women Affairs Pauline Tallen commended Makanjuola’s expertise in health journalism, saying her depth of knowledge once made her think the celebrant was a medical doctor.
Dr. Betty Olutunde, founder of Betnely Charity Foundation and chief organiser, flew in from London to honour Makanjuola, describing her as “an exceptional woman with a heart of gold who is always willing to support others.”
Representing the Maryam Babangida Centre for Women Development, Dr. Ebi Emezue praised the celebrant’s dedication to social justice and women’s advancement. NAWOJ National Chairperson Hajia Aisha Ibrahim, represented by FCT Chairperson Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, highlighted Makanjuola’s role as a mentor who spots and guides young leaders, and offered prayers for her continued strength.
Pastor Comfort Adesoye, founder of Women of Worth Global, asked for God’s grace and protection upon the media veteran, noting that her years of service and mentorship have touched many lives. Ngozi Oyewole, president of Commonwealth Business Women Africa and convener of Business Women of Influence for Renewed Hope Agenda, who arrived from Lagos, called Makanjuola “a beacon of hope and mentor to women in the NGO and advocacy space.”
Barrister Dele Atunbi, Deputy Director at NTA, spoke for the organisation and described Makanjuola as a guiding figure who supported young professionals starting out in Abuja.
Former NUJ FCT Chairman Amos Dunia recalled that she was among NAWOJ’s founding members and was instrumental in its formation. He noted that she stepped aside from becoming the first president, allowing Dr. Brenda Akpan to take the role, and later became the only unopposed NAWOJ president at the Maiduguri conference.
Rtn Evelyn Onyilo, former NAWOJ president and publisher of Phenomenal People Magazine, recalled that Makanjuola was critically ill around this time last year. She said it was a blessing to see her recovered and strong again.
Responding, Makanjuola, MFR, urged the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to create policies that would enable spouses of diplomats and foreign service officers to work while on foreign postings. She explained that many spouses abandon their careers abroad, and giving them legal avenues to work would strengthen family stability, economic inclusion, and personal fulfilment.
She also called on women to support one another in the push for gender parity.
Attendees described her as a selfless mentor and trailblazer whose influence in journalism and women’s advocacy continues to shape generations. The ceremony closed with prayers for her health and more years of service, with Makanjuola crediting her journey to God’s grace and thanking all who made the day memorable.
Those present included NUJ FCT Council Chairman Comrade Grace Ike, The Kakaaki of Bassa Kingdom Chief Jacob Edi, Dr Jophia Nanker Gupar, Simon Reef, Princess Joy Idam of Weekenders magazine, and others. The statement was jointly signed by former NAWOJ presidents Rtn Evelyn Onyilo and Chief Ladi Bala.
