Yemisi Izuora
Women in Power Sector have been challenged to encourage other women coming into the sector as a way of broadening their knowledge and expand their capacity in the industry.
Also, key challenges and opportunities open for women formed part of discussions when the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC) hosted the “Women in Power: Accelerate Action” webinar on 10th of March 2025.
The event brought together experts, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss challenges and opportunities for women in the sector , while launching a new Women in Power Mentoring Program.
The webinar, anchored by Peace Oghenegbavwe and moderated by Rahila Thomas, Country director EMRC, featured keynote speakers such as Ifeoma Malo , Dr ( Mrs) Heather Onoh, and Ibiene Okeleke, as panelists. Dr. Joy Ogaji, CEO/Executive Secretary of APGC, served as the chief host and convener.
Ifeoma Malo, CEO of Clean Tech Hub Nigeria, emphasized the need for women to identify problems in the energy sector and provide solutions. She encouraged women to support one another, provide platforms for representation, and consistently help those coming up in the industry.
Dr. Mrs Heather Onoh, shared her experiences as the only female board member in the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC) Board. She stressed the importance of empowering women, stating, “A strong woman is a woman who raises another woman.” She urged women to stand up, be willing to impact, and champion courses that promote positive change.
Ibiene Okeleke, addressed the challenges women face in remaining in the sector. “We need family-friendly workplace policies, such as on-site childcare, remote work options, and flexible schedules, to support women in their careers,” she said.
Okeleke stressed the importance of embedding young women into organizations through mentorship and hands-on training programs, ensuring they gain practical experience and long-term career development.
In her Contribution,
Mrs. Evangeline Babalola, Director of Policy, Research, and Statistics at the Federal Ministry of Power, emphasized the need for women’s involvement in decarbonization efforts and sustainable energy policies. Babalola highlighted the environmental impact of energy choices, emphasizing that women, particularly those in rural areas, bear the brunt of harmful cooking fuels.
Dr. Joy Ogaji immensely contributed in answering all questions posed to her as she gave example of how she intended to enroll ladies for internship training but ended up having just only one in her team despite many applications.
The panel discussion concluded with a question-and-answer session, providing valuable insights and takeaways for women in the power sector. Folllwing this session, the Women Mentoring Program, spearheaded by Dr. Joy Ogaji, Chief Executive of APGC was launched. The program aims to provide structured mentorship for women at different stages of their careers in the power sector, helping them navigate challenges and build long-term success.
Dr. Ogaji emphasized the importance of mentorship in breaking barriers and ensuring that more women rise to leadership positions. “Women need guidance, sponsorship, and advocacy in this sector. Through this mentorship program, we will create a strong network of women leaders who can uplift the next generation,” she emphasised .
The webinar concluded with a call to action for industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to accelerate gender inclusivity. “As women, we must support one another, take bold steps, and challenge the status quo. We are not just asking for inclusion; we are proving that we belong in this space,” Dr. Ogaji declared.
To wrap up in Rahila Thomas words… “the call to accelerate action is not a sprint but a marathon that requires unwavering determination and self-will”.
The “Women in Power: Accelerate Action” webinar was a resounding success, empowering women to accelerate action, challenge gender biases, and drive positive change in the power sector. The event marked a significant step toward bridging the gender gap in the Nigerian energy sector. As the industry continues to evolve, the contributions of women will be critical to achieving a sustainable and equitable energy future.