Women In Aviation, Environmental Engineers Unite In Abuja To Celebrate IWD, Push For Greater Female Inclusion
Maryam Aminu
Women professionals in aviation and environmental engineering converged in Abuja on Monday to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day with a strong call for mentorship, collaboration, and increased opportunities for women in male-dominated sectors.
The Chairperson of the WAI Abuja Branch, Mrs. Susan Otinu Okewu, was commnded at the event for her continued leadership and commitment to the objectives of the organisation. Meanwhile, Mrs. Rejoice Ndudinachi was ably represented by Mrs. Rachael Aladi Ameh, who participated in the proceedings on her behalf.p
The event, which featured an award ceremony and professional dialogue, was jointly organised by the Women in Aviation International Nigeria Chapter, Abuja Branch and the Nigerian Institution of Environmental Engineers (NIEE), Abuja Chapter, under the theme “Give to Gain.”
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the NIEE Abuja Chapter, Engr. Uche Patrick-Obikile, said the collaboration between both organisations reflects a shared commitment to empowering women and strengthening their role in shaping Nigeria’s future.
Patrick-Obikile noted that the partnership between aviation and environmental engineering professionals demonstrates how unity across sectors can accelerate gender inclusion and professional excellence.
According to her, environmental engineering and aviation remain critical sectors driving Nigeria’s development and sustainability, adding that women have continued to transform these fields through innovation, resilience, and leadership.
She explained that the theme, “Give to Gain,” highlights the importance of mentorship, knowledge sharing, and creating opportunities for younger professionals.
“When we give our time to mentor young women entering our field, we gain future leaders. When we share knowledge through training and capacity building, we build a more skilled and competitive industry,” she said.
The NIEE chairman further commended women professionals who have broken barriers and excelled despite challenges such as gender discrimination, limited opportunities, and financial constraints.
She described the award recipients honoured at the ceremony as trailblazers whose achievements continue to inspire younger generations aspiring to careers in aviation and engineering.
Patrick-Obikile also reaffirmed the commitment of the engineering community to building an inclusive professional environment where women can rise to leadership positions and contribute meaningfully to national development.
The event was attended by key industry figures, including the National President of the Women in Aviation International Nigeria Chapter, Mrs. Rejoice Ndudinachi; the Abuja Chairperson of the organisation, Mrs. Susan Otinu Okewu; and the President of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Engr. Chinyere Nnenna Igwegbe, who served as the guest speaker.
The gathering emphasised the need for stronger professional networks, mentorship programmes, and supportive policies to encourage more women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and aviation.
The celebration concluded with the presentation of awards to outstanding women whose contributions have significantly advanced professional excellence and gender inclusion within their respective fields.
