As someone who began her journalism career in 1999 as an undergraduate, I have observed this exclusion firsthand. For over two decades, no female journalist from Katsina has been nominated to cover Hajj activities, despite the significant strides women have made in the profession. This absence is not for lack of capable and qualified women journalists. Katsina is home to many skilled women in the media who are more than equipped to tell the stories of pilgrims and report on the complexities and triumphs of the Hajj.

This exclusion is not only a disservice to women journalists but also to the richness and diversity of reportage. Women journalists bring unique perspectives, especially when reporting on the experiences of female pilgrims, who constitute a substantial proportion of those undertaking the pilgrimage. Their voices and stories often remain untold or underrepresented due to the absence of women in these reporting teams.

However, the winds of change seem to be blowing under the administration of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda. His government has demonstrated an unprecedented commitment to inclusivity by appointing women to key positions in a manner never before seen in the history of Katsina State. This progressive stance offers hope that the same level of inclusivity can extend to Hajj coverage.

Governor Radda’s bold appointments of women signal that the era of sidelining capable women in Katsina is drawing to a close. It is imperative that this momentum includes a review of policies and practices surrounding Hajj reporting. Nomination committees and relevant agencies must actively consider the inclusion of women journalists to reflect the diversity of our society and uphold the principles of equality and fairness.

The inclusion of women journalists is not just about gender parity; it is about enriching the storytelling process and ensuring that the pilgrimage is covered holistically. Women journalists can provide nuanced insights into the challenges female pilgrims face, from logistical issues to health concerns and spiritual experiences. Their presence would also encourage more women to aspire to leadership roles in the media, fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment.

As we look forward to the 2025 Hajj, let this year mark a turning point. Let us seize this opportunity to correct a historical oversight and pave the way for a more inclusive future. Governor Radda’s administration has already set a precedent for women’s inclusion in governance; now, it is time to extend this vision to the media.

The exclusion of women journalists from Hajj coverage has gone on for far too long. It is my hope that this piece serves as a call to action for stakeholders in Katsina State to embrace inclusivity and equity in the noble task of representing our pilgrims’ stories. After all, the stories of the Hajj are not just about men; they are about all of us. Let us ensure that those stories are told by a diverse array of voices, reflecting the true spirit of the pilgrimage.

Fatima Sanda Kaita

fskaita@gmail.com