The 2025 edition of the ReportHer Awards took place in Lagos, with Women Radio 91.7FM hosting the event, aimed at recognising media organisations that actively promote women’s representation and empowerment.

Themed “Celebrating and recognizing media organisations that prioritise women’s representation and empowerment,” the awards seek to strengthen national commitment to ensuring that women are visible, quoted as credible authorities, and included in decision-making roles within media institutions.

Speaking at the ceremony, Toun Okewale-Sonaiya, CEO of Women Radio, described the event as a “moment of fulfilment,” highlighting the important role media plays in amplifying women’s voices. She explained that the awards evaluate both editorial practices and workplace culture, including maternity and paternity leave, childcare support, flexible work arrangements, and opportunities for women in leadership.

“This year, out of 72 nominations, only four winners emerged, reflecting strict selection standards,” Okewale-Sonaiya noted. She commended the winning organisations for fostering environments where women can thrive, citing one recipient offering six months of fully paid maternity leave with flexible arrangements thereafter.

Moturayo Alaka, Executive Director and CEO of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), a partner in the awards, emphasised that the event forms part of ongoing efforts to drive gender equity across sectors. She urged media organisations to assess their governance structures, ensure women occupy leadership positions, and implement inclusive parental leave policies.

“The media must embody the values it advocates. Portray women as strong, capable, and competent. Give them equal access to leadership and visibility,” Alaka said, urging newsrooms to be deliberate in sourcing and framing stories.

Okewale-Sonaiya further stressed that the awards were judged by three independent experts, with no influence from Women Radio or WSCIJ. She called on the broader media sector to intensify gender-sensitive reporting and create inclusive newsroom cultures.

“The objective of the ReportHer Awards is to identify and celebrate media houses that intentionally report on women and support their growth within the organisation,” she concluded.