AWALCO President Urges Members to Fast, Pray for Peace Amid West Africa’s Challenges

Janet Samuel

The President of the Association of West African Legislative Correspondents (AWALCO), Mr. Innocent Odoh, has urged members of the association to embrace the spiritual discipline of fasting and prayer as Christians enter the Lenten season and Muslims prepare for Ramadan, calling for renewed commitment to peace, unity and ethical journalism across the sub-region.

In a message to AWALCO members across West Africa, Odoh described fasting as a period for deep reflection, personal renewal and recommitment to values that promote justice, compassion and social harmony.

He said the spiritual season comes at a critical time for the region, which is currently facing insecurity, economic difficulties, political uncertainty and rising social tensions. According to him, fasting provides an opportunity for journalists to pause, reflect and seek divine guidance for their nations.

“As journalists covering the legislative space, our voices and actions matter. Let us pray for wisdom for our leaders, peace in our communities and protection for citizens whose lives are being disrupted by conflict and hardship,” Odoh said.

He urged Christian and Muslim members alike to allow the period of fasting to inspire ethical reporting, empathy in journalism and a renewed commitment to truth, peace-building and accountability.

The AWALCO president also called on members to remember vulnerable groups in their prayers, including displaced persons, women, children and communities affected by violence and economic pressures, stressing that the media has a responsibility to amplify their voices with sensitivity and integrity.

Odoh reaffirmed the association’s commitment to professional excellence, regional cooperation and responsible reporting, noting that the spiritual season should strengthen members’ resolve to contribute positively to democratic governance and social stability in West Africa.

He wished all members a spiritually fulfilling period of fasting and reflection, praying that it would bring peace, clarity of purpose and renewed hope for the sub-region.