The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) Lagos Chapter has ushered in a new era of leadership, with a renewed commitment to fostering growth, capacity building, and empowerment within the engineering community. At a recent handover ceremony, the outgoing president, Engr. Dr. Atinuke Wuraola Owolabi, officially passed the baton to the newly elected president, Engr. Dr. Nkechi Stellamaris Oruche. The event, held in Lagos, was marked by reflections on past achievements, a vision for the future, and a collective resolve to advance the engineering profession, particularly for women in Nigeria.
A Legacy of Impact: Reflecting on Engr. Dr. Owolabi’s Tenure
Engr. Dr. Atinuke Wuraola Owolabi, who served as the 7th President of the APWEN Lagos Chapter, left an indelible mark on the organization during her two-year term. Under her leadership, the chapter recorded significant milestones that aligned with APWEN’s core mission of promoting gender diversity, professional excellence, and societal impact within the engineering sector. Her administration focused on empowering women engineers through innovative programs, mentorship initiatives, and advocacy for increased female representation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
Dr. Owolabi’s tenure was characterized by a strategic approach to addressing the challenges faced by women engineers in Nigeria. She spearheaded initiatives aimed at bridging the gender gap in engineering, a field traditionally dominated by men. These efforts included organizing workshops, seminars, and training sessions to enhance the technical and leadership skills of members. Additionally, her administration prioritized community outreach programs that inspired young girls to pursue careers in engineering, thereby planting the seeds for a more inclusive future in the profession.
One of the standout achievements of Dr. Owolabi’s leadership was the strengthening of partnerships between APWEN Lagos Chapter and various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector organizations, and educational institutions. These collaborations facilitated the implementation of projects that addressed critical societal needs, such as sustainable infrastructure development and technological innovation. By fostering a culture of collaboration, Dr. Owolabi ensured that the chapter remained a relevant and influential voice in Nigeria’s engineering landscape.
During the handover ceremony, Dr. Owolabi expressed gratitude to her executive team, members, and supporters for their unwavering commitment to the chapter’s vision. She highlighted the importance of unity and perseverance in achieving the organization’s goals, noting that the progress made during her tenure was a collective effort. “Together, we have laid a solid foundation for the growth of APWEN Lagos Chapter,” she stated. “I am confident that the incoming leadership will build on this foundation and take the chapter to even greater heights.”
A New Dawn: Engr. Dr. Nkechi Stellamaris Oruche Takes the Helm
The appointment of Engr. Dr. Nkechi Stellamaris Oruche as the 8th President of the APWEN Lagos Chapter marks a significant milestone in the organization’s history. Dr. Oruche, a seasoned engineer with a wealth of experience in both academia and industry, brings a dynamic vision to her new role. Her election reflects the chapter’s commitment to entrusting leadership to individuals with a proven track record of excellence and a passion for advancing the engineering profession.
In her acceptance speech, Dr. Oruche outlined an ambitious agenda focused on growth, innovation, and capacity building. She emphasized the need to equip women engineers with the tools and opportunities required to excel in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. “Our goal is to empower every female engineer to reach her full potential,” she declared. “We will achieve this through targeted capacity-building programs, strategic partnerships, and a renewed focus on mentorship and professional development.”
Dr. Oruche’s vision for the chapter is anchored on three key pillars: professional development, community impact, and inclusivity. She aims to expand the chapter’s training programs to cover emerging fields such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and sustainable engineering practices. By equipping members with cutting-edge skills, she believes the chapter can position women engineers as leaders in Nigeria’s technological transformation.
Additionally, Dr. Oruche plans to strengthen the chapter’s community outreach initiatives, particularly those targeting young girls in secondary schools and tertiary institutions. These programs will focus on demystifying engineering and encouraging more women to pursue STEM careers. By showcasing successful female engineers as role models, the chapter hopes to inspire the next generation to break barriers and challenge stereotypes in the profession.
Inclusivity is another cornerstone of Dr. Oruche’s agenda. She is committed to creating an environment where all members, regardless of their background or experience level, feel valued and supported. This includes fostering collaboration between seasoned professionals and young engineers, as well as ensuring that the chapter’s activities are accessible to women in both urban and rural areas.
The Significance of APWEN in Nigeria’s Engineering Landscape
The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) was established in 1982 with the mission of promoting the advancement of women in the engineering profession. As a division of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), APWEN has grown into a formidable force, advocating for gender equality and providing a platform for women engineers to thrive. The Lagos Chapter, one of the most vibrant in the country, has consistently led the charge in implementing programs that align with APWEN’s national objectives.
In Nigeria, women make up a small percentage of the engineering workforce, despite the critical role the profession plays in national development. According to recent statistics, women account for less than 15% of engineering professionals in the country, a figure that underscores the need for organizations like APWEN. By addressing systemic barriers such as limited access to education, workplace discrimination, and societal stereotypes, APWEN is working to create a more equitable engineering sector.
The Lagos Chapter, in particular, has been instrumental in driving this change. With Lagos being the economic hub of Nigeria, the chapter is uniquely positioned to influence policy, forge partnerships, and implement high-impact projects. Over the years, the chapter has organized numerous initiatives, including technical workshops, career fairs, and mentorship programs, all aimed at empowering women engineers and promoting excellence in the profession.
One of the chapter’s flagship programs is the “Invent It, Build It” initiative, which introduces young girls to the exciting world of engineering through hands-on activities and interactive sessions. This program has reached thousands of students across Lagos, inspiring them to consider engineering as a viable career path. By engaging with schools and communities, the chapter is helping to build a pipeline of future female engineers who will contribute to Nigeria’s development.
Challenges and Opportunities for Women Engineers in Nigeria
While APWEN Lagos Chapter has made significant strides, women engineers in Nigeria continue to face numerous challenges. Gender bias remains a pervasive issue, with many women encountering stereotypes that question their competence or suitability for technical roles. In some cases, women engineers are overlooked for promotions or leadership positions, despite possessing the requisite qualifications and experience.
Access to education and training is another hurdle. Although Nigeria has made progress in improving access to STEM education, disparities still exist, particularly in rural areas. Many young women lack the resources or encouragement to pursue engineering degrees, limiting the pool of female talent in the profession. Additionally, work-life balance remains a concern, as women engineers often juggle demanding careers with family responsibilities, a challenge that is compounded by limited workplace support systems.
Despite these challenges, there are numerous opportunities for growth and impact. The global push for sustainable development and technological innovation has created a demand for skilled engineers, particularly in fields such as renewable energy, infrastructure development, and digital transformation. Women engineers, with their unique perspectives and problem-solving skills, are well-positioned to lead in these areas.
APWEN Lagos Chapter is leveraging these opportunities to empower its members. Through partnerships with industry leaders, the chapter provides access to training, internships, and job opportunities. By collaborating with organizations such as the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), and international bodies, the chapter ensures that its members are equipped to compete on a global stage.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As Engr. Dr. Nkechi Stellamaris Oruche takes the reins, the APWEN Lagos Chapter is poised for a transformative period. Her leadership comes at a critical time when Nigeria is grappling with the need for sustainable development and technological advancement. By prioritizing capacity building, the chapter aims to empower its members to contribute meaningfully to these national goals.
One of Dr. Oruche’s immediate priorities is to expand the chapter’s mentorship programs. These programs pair experienced engineers with early-career professionals, providing guidance and support as they navigate their careers. By fostering a culture of mentorship, the chapter hopes to create a strong network of women engineers who can support and uplift one another.
Another focus area is innovation. Dr. Oruche plans to establish a dedicated innovation hub where members can collaborate on research and development projects. This hub will serve as a platform for testing new ideas, developing prototypes, and showcasing the contributions of women engineers to Nigeria’s technological landscape. By fostering a culture of innovation, the chapter aims to position itself as a leader in addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and energy access.
The chapter is also committed to advocacy. Dr. Oruche has pledged to work with policymakers to promote gender-inclusive policies in the engineering sector. This includes advocating for equal pay, improved workplace conditions, and increased representation of women in leadership roles. By engaging with government and industry stakeholders, the chapter hopes to influence systemic change that will benefit women engineers across Nigeria.
Celebrating Collaboration and Unity
The handover ceremony was not only a moment to celebrate new leadership but also an opportunity to reflect on the power of collaboration and unity. The event brought together members of the APWEN Lagos Chapter, representatives from the Nigerian Society of Engineers, and other stakeholders in the engineering community. It was a testament to the chapter’s ability to foster partnerships and build a strong sense of community among its members.
In her remarks, Dr. Oruche acknowledged the contributions of past leaders and members, emphasizing that the chapter’s success is a collective achievement. “We are stronger together,” she said. “The progress we have made and the goals we aim to achieve are only possible because of the dedication and passion of every member of this chapter.”
The ceremony also featured the recognition of outgoing executives who served alongside Dr. Owolabi. Their contributions were instrumental in advancing the chapter’s objectives, and they were commended for their tireless efforts. The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and a call to action for all members to support the new leadership in achieving its vision.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for APWEN Lagos Chapter
As the APWEN Lagos Chapter embarks on this new chapter under the leadership of Engr. Dr. Nkechi Stellamaris Oruche, there is a palpable sense of optimism and determination. The chapter’s commitment to growth, capacity building, and inclusivity positions it as a vital force in Nigeria’s engineering sector. By empowering women engineers, inspiring the next generation, and fostering innovation, the chapter is paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future.
The journey ahead will not be without challenges, but with a clear vision, a dedicated leadership team, and the support of its members, APWEN Lagos Chapter is well-equipped to overcome obstacles and achieve its goals. As the chapter continues to break barriers and redefine what it means to be a woman engineer in Nigeria, it serves as an inspiration to women across the country and beyond.
In the words of Dr. Oruche, “The future of engineering is female, and together, we will shape it.” With this bold vision, the APWEN Lagos Chapter is poised to make a lasting impact, not only within the engineering profession but also in the broader quest for gender equality and national development.
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