By Gabriel Agbeja, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Since 1911, the International Women’s Day (IWD), commemorated yearly on March 8, has been about gender equality.

It celebrates women’s achievements, raising awareness about discrimination and taking action for an inclusive society.

In Nigeria, women have distinguished themselves in the aviation sector and were accordingly celebrated by the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN),

At the FAAN IWD celebration in Lagos, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director, FAAN, canvassed for an all-encompassing society.

“What can we do right here, right now? Let us build strong civil society networks and connect with organisations advocating gender equality.

“Let us also share resources, knowledge and opportunities and get involved in supporting women’s empowerment legislations.

“Your voice matters, use it; arm yourself with information; focus on developing marketable skills, not just for yourself but also help others do the same; every small action counts.

“Every conversation you have about equality matters; every time you speak up against discrimination, you are part of the solution; these are the ways we can #AccelerateAction.”

According to Kuku, who is the first female FAAN Managing Director, women can achieve significant progress in a decade or less if they start working together and committing to being part of the change.

She explained that celebrating differences instead of using them as dividing lines would create a richer tapestry of human experience.

“This is not just about fairness; it is about smart decision-making.

“It is about creating a world where talent rises regardless of gender; where innovation flows from all voices, and our differences make us stronger, not weaker.

“When we remove the invisible barriers of bias and stereotypes, we unlock the full potential of half of our population.

“It is like finally using both wings of an airplane instead of trying to fly with just one. The beauty of this vision lies in its simplicity: equal opportunities, equal voices, equal respect,” she said.

On his part, Mr Vikram Singh, the Technical Records Specialist at TGIS Aviation Limited, UK, described IWD as a reminder of how far women have come in aviation.

Singh said work still lies ahead in terms of inclusion in the aviation industry.

According to him, leaders such Mrs Trish Gray, the Chief Executive Officer of the TGIS, and Mrs Charlie Whyman, the Managing Director of TGIS, are breaking barriers that prove that diversity strengthens the industry.

“With Trish as chief executive officer and Charlie as managing director, TGIS is a fantastic example of how female leadership drives innovation and success.

“Their guidance creates a workplace built on inclusivity and fresh ideas, which is a significant asset in the aviation industry,” he said.

Ms Ashante Antonio, a marketing officer in the company, shared her experience about how amazing it is working for a female-led company in a male-dominated industry.

Antonio said she felt always supported and empowered to excel by the guidance and mentorship received at the women-led organisation to break into aviation and develop in her career.

“Although this is my first full-time role, so I do not have experience with other types of leadership, I’ve seen how Trish’s and Charlie’s leadership creates a personal and supportive work environment.

“We hold regular weekly meetings, monthly one-on-ones, and encourage annual team-building activities that bring everyone together. These initiatives foster collaboration and engagement, setting a strong foundation for success.

“It is still a male-dominated field, but it is inspiring to see the women who are rising through the ranks.

“The support and network available for women in this industry are growing, and I will encourage more women to explore aviation as a career,” she said.

More so, Mrs Funke Arowojobe, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), appealed for gender equality.

Arowojobe, who recently received an ‘Excellence in Leadership Award’ from Women in Aviation, Nigeria Chapter, said the dedication of women in aviation to promoting gender equality was inspiring.

“I have to admit that this recognition is a tribute to the collective incredible women who have paved the way for people like me in the aviation industry.

She praised her colleagues and the management of NiMet for the constant and unconditional support for women like her.

The director also highlighted the importance of mentoring, especially when it comes to young women who want to pursue careers in the aviation sector.

“I am reminded of the immense talent, passion, and resilience that exist among women in aviation. I feel herein lies the essence of this year’s theme ‘Connect, Engage and Inspire’,” she said.

Worthy of note, Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, joined the global community to celebrate IWD.

Musawa extolled the strength, resilience and creativity of Nigerian women while acknowledging the vital role they played in shaping society.

Her message to mark IWD was apt.

“As we join the global community to celebrate IWD, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy extends warmest greetings to all Nigerian women,’’ she said.

Recall that the Women in Aviation International, Nigeria Chapter (WIA-N), a non-profit organisation, recently pledged to advance safety and security in the aviation industry.

WIA-N President, Nigeria Chapter, Mrs Rejoice Ndudinachi, made the pledge at the 2024 WIA Annual Conference in Abuja.

Ndudinachi assured that Women in Aviation would continue to support and do all required towards ensuring safety and security in the aviation industry.

“In every segment of Nigeria’s aviation industry, women are present and have been making a very significant impact, starting from engineering, management, aero- medical, media, regulation, training, meteorology and security to piloting.

“Ever since WIA was established, the level of commitment and dedication to duties by women in aviation has increased and this has contributed significantly to the numerous achievements that the industry has recorded.”

The president said the members would keep gaining knowledge by attending international WIA conferences on constant basis, urging them to support and cooperate.

“Today, we gather once again as a community of pioneers, advocates, and change makers in aviation,’’ she said.

Stakeholders say that IWD has become a highly significant day worldwide, with increased mainstreaming of awareness.

The say, however, that issues affecting women such as poverty, lack of access to education, sexual harassment, cultural inhibitions, early marriage, maternal health, among others should be tackled frontally not just on paper. (NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.