Nosa Aituamen
In commemoration of International Women’s Day 2025, the female arm of the National Aircraft, Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) held an event to celebrate the achievements of women in the aviation industry and accelerate action towards gender equality.
The event, with the theme “Accelerate Action towards Gender Equality,” brought together pilots, crew executives, aircraft maintenance engineers, career mentors, aviation security, airport officers, and ground handling companies to recognize the contributions of women in the industry.
Head of NAAPE’s Commission, Engr. Kyola Dyaji, drew attention to the achievements of female professionals who have shattered the ceilings in a male-dominated sector.
NAAPE President, Comrade Abednego Galadinma, emphasized the union’s commitment to advancing the cause of women and ensuring gender balancing in the industry.
He urged female professionals to participate fully in labour matters and assured them of support from the union.
“As we say in labour parlance, “No Women, No Controversy. As a gender sensitive leader of a gender friendly union, NAAPE is ready and willing to support your cause at any time and cooperate with you on all occasions as the need may arise”.
In her paper presentation, Deputy General Manager of Air Traffic Management/State Safety Programme, NCAA, Mrs. Kate Nnanna-Ibemgbo, stressed that gender equality is a fundamental human right and necessary for a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world.
She appealed to colleagues to mentor the younger generation and forge female aviators empowerment through coaching and mentoring.
Managing Director of Mamaj Aviation Consult, Joy Ogbebo, emphasized the role of mentorship in accelerating gender equality, highlighting the need for education, information, empowerment, and policy changes to promote women’s growth.
“We need to keep advocating against policies that discriminate against women. Having a male and female in the same position but having disparity in pay discourages women”, she added.
Engr. Uchechi Edosomwan urged women to take action to address gender inequality, emphasizing that the journey may be long but the end is in sight if a good driver is handling.
“You will accelerate when you have
the qualities that make you stand out. The word impossible does not exist to a mind willing to push beyond limits”.
The event also featured awards to women in the industry who have shattered the glass ceilings, celebrating their resilience and fearlessness in a male-dominated sector.
The celebration served as a reminder of the importance of gender equality and the need for continued advocacy and support for women in the aviation industry.