NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Aviation

Women in Aviation pledges to advance safety, security in aviation sector

129 total views today

By Gabriel Agbeja

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

Its President, Nigeria Chapter, Mrs Rejoice Ndudinachi, made the pledge at the 2024 WIA Annual Conference in Abuja on Thursday.

Ndudinachi assured that Women in Aviation would continue to support and do all it takes to ensure safety and security in the aviation industry “and this, we have been doing and will continue to do.

“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. Women in Aviation, Nigeria Chapter is a non-profit organisation. It encourages the advancement of women in all aviation career fields and interests.”

She said the vision of the organisation was to promote public awareness of the accomplishments and contributions of women to aviation development.

According to her, the aims of WIA include fostering, promoting and engaging in aviation education, particularly as it relates to WIA.

Others, she said, were to cultivate, foster and promote interest and understanding among the public on the accomplishments and contributions of women in aviation.

“We also aim to encourage the young ones to build up their future in aviation.”

She said WIA-N had established and inaugurated about 17 Aviation Clubs in schools to provide a platform for networking resources and opportunities for women.

“In pursuit of our aims and objectives, we have embarked on public sensitisation programmes, WIA Scholarships, career talks, and other activities to help the young ones to take up a career in aviation.

“For example, Nigeria got the position of first winner and second winner during the September 2024 International girls in aviation day activity raffle draw. The girls made us proud.

“This year, we organised ‘Girls in Aviation Day’  in almost all the airports in Nigeria with the support of aviation agencies, particularly with the support of these beautiful role models and vision achievers in the house,“she said.

She said the organisation  gave handsome gifts to outstanding children to inspire them to pursue careers in aviation.

She said the theme, “Connect, Engage, Inspire“ perfectly encapsulated the essence of the organisation`s mission, vision, and the journey it had embarked.

“As women in aviation, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to inspire. We inspire each other by sharing stories of perseverance, innovation, and leadership.

“We also inspire the younger ones to take up a career in aviation, `she said. (NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

General News

Stakeholders call for unity, support among women

82 total views today

 

By Lynient Akotonou

Nigerian women have been urged to unite and empower themselves to take up leadership roles in various sectors of the society in spite of challenges.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the call was made by stakeholders at the Women In Leadership and Entrepreneurship (WOILEN) conference, themed, “Empowered to lead, inspired to succeed, women shaping the future”.

Former Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Aisha Isma’il, in a keynote address, said that women must work to break societal limitations and take leadership roles in major sectors of the society.

“In human endeavors, have we aspired for excellence? Are we inspiring? Are women positive absolutely? And if we inspire, how come we are not in leadership? In the political, financial, economic and social scenes?”

She further stated that Nigerian men have failed in governance, development and peace and it’s up to women to take action and create positive change.

“It is up to us for the sake of our children and now our grandchildren, to wake up and use that small space given to us and explore.”

On her part, Mrs Adedayo Laniyi, Pioneer Mandate Secretary, Women and Children Affairs, FCTA, emphasised the importance of women in embracing their power and excellence.

She defined an empowered woman as one who acknowledges her potential, resilience and ingenuity.

Laniyi said that an empowered woman is one that embraces the power at her disposal to effect life changing initiatives.

She said that women in Nigeria must exploit their full potential by being original, exponential, and deliberate in their actions and deed.

Stella George, author and convener of the WOILEN Conference, explained that the conference was organised to connect women for collaboration, to inspire them with top speakers and entrepreneurs, and provide valuable insights for success.

“We want to see that their businesses thrive. We want to see that they get the full support. We want to see that they have everything that they need to have in order to move their businesses forward.

“We believe that women have so much potential. The leadership capacity of women cannot be overemphasised.”

She also called for further collaboration among stakeholders towards supporting women’s empowerment in the country.

“But we intend to see partners, government agencies, individuals, and businesses come together to support us, because we need to support women. The women need support.”(NAN)
Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Gender

Minister urges action to protect rights, dignity of women, girls

108 total views today

By Justina Auta

The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has stressed the need for deliberate action to protect the rights, safety and dignity of women and girls across the country.

She made the call at the launch of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Abuja on Monday with the theme ‘Unite Campaign: Towards Beijing to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls’.

The minister, who described GBV as a societal issue and an impediment to development, expressed concern over the statistics in the country.

She said the statistics show women and girls at great risk, stressing that “the growing trend represents gross violation of human rights and undermines the very fabric of the society, thereby preventing women and girls from achieving their full potential.

“Gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue; it is a societal issue, a human rights issue, and an impediment to our nation’s development.

“The statistics before us on  GBV in Nigeria remains deeply troubling. Even as we embark on this campaign today, a little child has just violated, a woman has just been abused, a young girl’s life is at risk somewhere in a community, all for no just cause.

“Current reports indicate that 30 per cent of Nigerian women and girls aged between 15 and 49 years have experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives.

“This violence occurs not only in homes, but extends to schools, workplaces and communities. Violence does not know any tribe nor creed, it cuts across social and economic boundaries. It affects both young and old”.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim, therefore, urged the media to amplify the voices of survivors, highlight success stories and hold perpetrators accountable, as well as educate the public against such act.

She said the campaign would focus on community mobilisation and education to challenge harmful cultural norms, stereotypes and practices that perpetuate violence.

“We will continuously engage traditional and religious leaders as community gate keepers,” she added.

Ms Beatrice Eyong, the Country Representative of UN Women to Nigeria and ECOWAS, also stressed the need for renewed efforts toward addressing gender inequality and violence against women and girls.

Eyong said 42 per cent of women were financially excluded, with women holding less than five per cent of elective positions.

According to her, this imposes significant economic loss, estimated at 1.5 per cent of Nigeria’s GDP annually, hindering development and progress.

She added that “GBV is everywhere, it is not good for neither the men nor the women. It has the capacity to reduce economic growth if this is not reduced, we will never come out of poverty. It is not just a human rights issue, it is an economic issue.

“The funding for gender equality and women empowerment has reduced, and as experts, we have to think of innovative ways to mobilise funds to fight the menace”.

Gautier Mignot, European Union Ambassador, said “we cannot help but commend the critical reforms that have been initiated by state government and civil society organisations, of which, we have started seeing progress”.

Represented by Toyosi Giwa, Technical Lead, Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption ( ROLaC), Mignot pledged sustained advocacy “until perpetrators are held accountable and punished and every survivor gain access to assistance that they need to recover and heal”,

Mr Gabriel Aduda, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, said that in commemorating the 2024 activities, commitments would be re-enforced, while collaborations and empowerment of survivors strengthened.

Aduda added that “GBV remains a pervasive issue in our societies, transcending borders, cultures and socioeconomic status. It continues to rob individuals of their dignity, undermine families and hinder national development.

“In Nigeria, statistics paint a sobering picture, with a significant percentage of women and girls experiencing violence in their lifetimes. This is unacceptable, and we must act with urgency,” he said.

Aduda, therefore, stressed the need to move beyond rhetoric by amplifying voices, strengthening actions and deepen resolve to address the root causes of GBV.

“Every law we enact, every programme we implement, and every survivor we empower brings us closer to a Nigeria where women and girls can live free from fear and violence,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Agriculture

Expert calls for youth, women empowerment in agriculture

154 total views today

By Naomi Sharang

The Chief Executive Officer of Shield Africa, Mrs Osenaga Orokpo, has emphasised the need for empowering youth and women to drive sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria and Africa.

Orokpo, speaking at the Shield Africa Summit 2024 in Abuja on Friday, noted that food insecurity and poverty have become major concerns on the continent.

She stressed that Africa must prioritise sustainable agriculture and food security, transforming fields and approaches to prioritise sustainable practices, empower youth and women, and unlock the true potential of African agriculture.

Orokpo envisioned a prosperous Africa where every young person had the tools to become an agri-preneur, transforming farmlands into sources of wealth and opportunity.

According to Orokpo, hunger affects over 250 million people in sub-Saharan Africa, with population growth threatening to outpace agricultural production.

She emphasised the need for more youth involvement in agriculture, citing the average age of farmers as over 60, while the median age of the population is just 18.

Orokpo called on stakeholders to join forces to shield Africa from hunger, poverty, and pain.

She announced that Shield Africa aimed to create 15,000 to 20,000 direct and indirect jobs for young individuals in 2025, contributing to youth employment and reducing poverty.

The Deputy Governor of Benue, Dr Sam Ode, represented by Director-General Benita Shuluwa, emphasised the potential for rural communities to drive economic transformation.

He highlighted Benue’s experiences in investing in rural infrastructure, which he said have boosted agriculture and uplifted communities.

Ode commended Shield Africa for providing agricultural support, empowering youth, and promoting gender inclusivity.(NAN)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola and Abiemwense Moru

Gender

Glovo, LASG, She Code Africa unveil initiative for tech women

146 total views today

By Rukayat Moisemhe

Glovo, a pioneering multi-category app, has unveiled its Women in Tech Bootcamp with the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and investment and She Code Africa to promote technology infusion for women.

Mrs Lamide Akinola, the General Manager, Glovo Nigeria, at the launch on Friday in Lagos, said the bootcamp was to empower the next generation of female leaders in technology.

Akinola said the initiative not only aimed to foster technology inclusion but to also provide skills training, and empower women to build successful careers in technology.

Akinola said the event which brought together industry leaders, government officials, European diplomatic community reinforced Glovo’s commitment to bridging the gender gap in the tech industry.

She added that it would advance gender diversity, create pathways for women to thrive in tech-driven roles and make a lasting impact in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.

“At Glovo, we believe in a future where women are integral drivers of innovation, especially in technology.

“We recognise that the challenges women face in technology go beyond technical skills; they include barriers rooted in access, opportunity, and sometimes, the confidence to take bold steps.

“Today’s event is our way of saying we see those barriers, and we are here to help break them down with you.

“At Glovo, we believe that empowering women with digital skills is essential, not only for driving innovation and growth but for building communities where everyone can thrive,” she said.

Mrs Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Commissioner, Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Lagos State, underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in unlocking opportunities for women.

Ambrose-Medebem quoted that studies showed that bridging the gender gap in technology could add up to $12 trillion to global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2025.

She said the figure showed that empowering women in technology was not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity.

She said Lagos State, a hub of innovation and economic activity, understood that inclusion was a catalyst for sustainable growth.

“However, achieving this requires intentional strategies and robust partnerships.

“Today’s gathering signifies more than just advocacy; it is a rallying cry to reimagine the future of innovation by ensuring no one is left behind, particularly women, who represent half of our population.

“We are excited to work with Glovo and She Code Africa to deliver a program that opens doors for women to excel, innovate, and lead.

“This initiative also aligns with the mandate of the ministry to foster innovation, encourage entrepreneurship, and support the development of skilled talent across industries,” she said.

Ada Oyom, Founder, She Code Africa, said her organisation as the technical partners of the Women in Tech Bootcamp Programme, was very enthusiasm about the outcome of the partnership.

Oyom said the collaboration with Glovo and the Lagos State Government to run the 12-week intensive programme would create impactful pathways for women in tech.

She noted that Glovo’s commitment to gender diversity was commendable, and urged like-minded companies to invest in initiatives that empower the future of women in technology.

“Together, we can build a more inclusive and innovative tech ecosystem,” she said.

Also, Shiro Theuri, Glovo’s Chief Technology Officer, restated the brand’s steadfast commitment to diversity in technology, saying its possibilities and impact of fostering inclusive environments was enormous.

She said the company’s dedication to “walking the talk” was evident in its strategic efforts to create opportunities for women across its operations, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

She said the initiative aimed to ignite interest in technology careers by highlighting the flexibility, creativity, and impact of a modern technology environment.

“To achieve this, Glovo focuses on three pillars: facilitating bootcamps for women without technical backgrounds to prepare them for junior tech roles.

“The second pillar is breaking gender stereotypes through community engagement, such as office visits that inspire young girls with female role models; and acting as a career catalyst by offering internships to top bootcamp participants.

“This initiative also ensures that, even after completing the bootcamp, participants will have ongoing access to mentorship, supporting their journey toward careers in technology.

“This mentorship aligns closely with the broader goals of Glovo’s Women in Tech initiative across the globe, which aims to make an impact by empowering the next generation of women in technology,” she said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

General News

Take active role in anti-corruption war– ICPC boss tasks women, youth

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The ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu (SAN), has urged women and youths to take a more active role in the fight against corruption and other social vices in the county.

Aliyu made the call in his address of welcome at a one-day workshop for women and youths on corruption prevention at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja, on Thursday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference has as its theme: “Women and Youth Alliance Against Corruption”.

The ICPC boss said that women and the youth disproportionately experienced the effects of corruption in society, and urged them to rise to fight against it.

Aliyu stated that the conference was put together as a pivotal event dedicated to empowering two key groups, women and young people in the fight against corruption.

”Today’s workshop is not just an event; it is a crucial platform that aims to highlight the pivotal roles that women and the youth play in the fight against corruption.

”By uniting our voices and resources, we can amplify our impact and drive meaningful change in our communities.

”Engaging women and young people in this battle is essential, as they are often the first to feel the effects of corruption, yet they hold the keys to innovative solutions and transformative leadership,” he said.

Aliyu said further that the workshop stands as a pillar of public engagement, fully aligned with the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act of 2000, the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, and the ICPC Strategic Action Plan 2024-2028.

“ICPC is committed to leveraging technology for mobilisation, building inclusive coalitions, and empowering marginalised voices to foster a more just and equitable society.

”By engaging women and youth, our over-arching objective is for our anti-corruption efforts to become more diverse, inclusive, and sustainable.

”It is also to enhance credibility, increased public support, innovative solutions, long-term impact and, of course, a more just and equitable society for Nigerians,” he said.

In her address, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu,  wife of the President, said that when corruption thrives, the most vulnerable women, children, and marginalised communities bear the heaviest burden.

”It is for their sake, and the future of our beloved country, that we must remain resolute in our efforts to combat this scourge.

“As we gather today, let us reflect on the words of our elders: ‘It takes a village to raise a child;’ and in the same vein, it takes the collective will of the entire nation to defeat corruption.

“We cannot leave this battle to government agencies alone,” she said.

The President’s wife commended the ICPC and its leadership for their unwavering commitment to the cause of anti-corruption.

The conference brings together leaders, activists, policymakers, and community members to address the unique challenges women and youth face in combating corruption.

Through workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions, the conference aims to equip participants with strategies against corruption.

It also aims to support networks to promote transparency, integrity, and accountability within their communities and institutions.(NAN (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bayo Sekoni

Gender

WIMBIZ, stakeholders urge women to dream big, challenge stereotypes

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By Joan Odafe

Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ) and other stakeholders have encouraged women to go beyond dreaming and take concrete actions to unlock their potential.

They emphasised that women need to adopt a positive mindset, avoid distractions, and be bold in pursuing their dreams without limitations.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this call was made at the 23rd Annual Conference of WIMBIZ on Thursday in Lagos.

The event was themed ‘Dream. Dare. Do’.

Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, Chairperson of the conference and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, stated that the conference provided a platform for women from diverse backgrounds to share experiences and motivate each other.

She said the event aimed to equip participants with the tools to turn their dreams into reality.

Speaking on the theme, Ogunsola stressed the importance of going beyond dreaming to take bold actions, especially in the face of societal stereotypes and constraints.

“We need to dream beyond the limits set by society or even by ourselves. Our country needs us in all areas of development, politics, business, management, public service, education, health, and entertainment.

“It is crucial that we are present when decisions are made and that our voices are heard,” she said.

She also noted that many women hesitate to dream beyond their immediate environments due to societal resistance, fear of failure, rejection, and reputational risk.

She emphasised that women need to pursue leadership roles where they can impact decisions that affect them and drawing on leadership skills developed in their daily lives.

“We learn how to manage people and encourage them to do their best while balancing multiple roles. But often, we don’t put ourselves forward unless we are specifically noticed.

“When it comes to networking or taking up leadership roles, many of us hesitate, saying we are too busy. Busy doing what?” she asked.

Ogunsola urged women to dream big, even if the size of those dreams feels intimidating, and to break out of their comfort zones to challenge strong stereotypes.

Prof. Aisha Maikudi, Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, also encouraged women to set goals to achieve their dreams, highlighting the importance of remaining focused.

She stated that many challenges in her career journey stemmed from societal and cultural barriers but that having a strong foundation, support, and mentors were key factors in her success.

Mr John Obaro, Group Managing Director of SystemSpecs, urged participants to cultivate the right mindset, believe in themselves, and maintain faith in God to achieve their goals.

He warned that there would be discouraging voices, even from people with valid reasons, but emphasized the importance of challenging limiting beliefs to stay focused on their aspirations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

General News

SDG: NGO trains women’s right organisations 

188 total views today

 

By Peter Okolie

Women Environmental Programme (WEP) has trained various women’s rights and grassroots organisations focused on driving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

 

Its Deputy Executive Director, Mr John Baaki, said the training, which held on Thursday in Owerri, aimed to strengthen capacities to develop policies and enhance online visibility.

 

 

Baaki said the workshop was part of WEP’s Women Power 2030 project being implemented in Nigeria and Sierra Leone.

 

 

“The workshop aims to strengthen the capacity of women and feminist civil society networks and organisations to fight inequalities and advance gender-equal sustainable development.

 

 

“The project also aims to ensure that the SDGs are implemented in a sustainable, just and gender-inclusive manner.

 

 

“Our expectation is for them to function better, be able to attract more funding and better contribute to the fight to end gender inequality,” he added.

 

 

In his welcome remarks, the Executive Director, Goodwash Foundation for Health and Environmental Protection, Mr Ikenna Anumnu, lauded WEP, the European Union and Women Power 2030 for organising the workshop.

 

 

Anumnu said the workshop would strengthen organisational policies and visibility, and enhance women’s rights and civil society organisations’ capacity to effectively contribute advocacy to realise the SDGs.

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that participants were trained on “Building a strong brand identity for organisations”, “Leveraging digital media for advocacy and awareness” and “Developing relevant policies and processes for organisations.”

 

 

NAN further reports that the participants were drawn from Imo, Rivers, Bayelsa, Enugu, Delta, Abia, Ebonyi, Edo, Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

 

 

One of the facilitators, Mr Ken Ajio, advised the participants to develop a communication strategy and plan for every project and initiative.

 

 

“Adopt a good communication policy, utilise multiple channels, and provide a feedback mechanism for all your internal and external communications,” he advised.

 

 

A participant and Head of the Legal Unit, Sisters With A Goal Initiative (SWAG), Mrs Nkiruka Obisike, commended the organisers and urged them to sustain the training.

 

 

“I learnt about the procedure for formulating organisational policies and how an organisation is run,” she said.

 

 

WEP is a Nigerian NGO working to address gender injustices on issues relating to the environment and economic and social rights of women and young people.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluwafunke Ishola

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