IWD 2025: “She pushes for more inclusive, impactful press through her teaching,” IPI celebrates UNILAG don, Prof Ogwezzy-Ndisika
The International Press Institute (IPI), has celebrated a former Head of the Mass Communication Department, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika for her unique contributions to the development of the media practice in Nigeria through her teaching, research, and mentorship.
NewsClick Nigeria reports that IPI is a global media body present in nearly 100 countries of the world, established for the promotion of free media and media rights the world over.
The Institute, to commemorate the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) and it’s 75th anniversary spotlighted some remarking women holding it down in the global media space. In all, 12 women made the list with Prof Ogwezzy-Ndisika emerging the only Nigerian and African.
“To mark International Women’s Day on March 8, IPI is proud to celebrate some of the remarkable women media leaders from our global network. From our first female member to the courageous collective of journalists, innovators, and media leaders we are honoured to include in our network today, these women have shaped the face of journalism and free media globally.
“We honor their innovative reporting, their tireless commitment to press freedom, and their example of leadership in challenging times for independent media worldwide. As we celebrate IPI’s 75th anniversary this year, we are proud to count these women—both past and present—as members of the IPI global network.”
Specifically, the IPI described Prof Ogwezzy-Ndisika as a “trail a trailblazer in academia and a leading voice in media development and strategic communication in Nigeria.”
The Institute also recognized her uniqueness as first woman and alumna to head the Mass Communication department of UNILAG
“Abigail Odozi Ogwezzy-Ndisika is a professor of journalism and mass communication at the University of Lagos (Unilag), a trailblazer in academia and a leading voice in media development and strategic communication in Nigeria. As the first woman and first alumna to lead the Unilag Department of Mass Communication, she has played a historic role in shaping media and communication studies in the country, ensuring that journalism education evolves to meet today’s challenges. With more than 30 years of experience, Professor Ogwezzy-Ndisika has advised major projects, trained journalists, and consulted for multilateral organizations. A long-time editorial board member for The Guardian and other major publications, she is also Deputy President of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria. As founder of the Media Action & Development Foundation and a respected member of the IPI Nigerian National Committee, she continues to push for a more inclusive, impactful press through her teaching, research, and mentorship.”
