The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Association of Professional Women Engineers in Nigeria (APWEN), NNPC Limited Chapter, on Thursday called on stakeholders to prioritise the education of girls and advance the study of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) for more female students.
The clarion call was made during the inauguration of Engr. Adefunke Adekunle as the new Chairman of the Association of Professional Women Engineers in Nigeria (APWEN), NNPC Limited Chapter, at a colourful ceremony in Abuja.
Speaking shortly after her inauguration as the second Chairman of APWEN, NNPC Limited Chapter, Engr. Adefunke Adekunle highlighted the importance of girl-child education and the need to encourage more young girls to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
She particularly pledged to expand opportunities for young women in engineering and foster an inclusive environment where female engineers could thrive.
“Engineering remains the backbone of national development. However, women in this field still face challenges that limit their representation and growth.
As the second Chairman of APWEN NNPC Limited Chapter, my vision is clear: to deepen our impact, expand opportunities for young women in engineering, and foster an inclusive environment where female engineers can thrive,” she said.
She outlined the key focus areas of her administration, including education and mentorship, professional development and capacity building, advocacy and visibility, as well as networking and collaboration.
The immediate past Chairman of APWEN, NNPC Limited Chapter, Engr. Grace Akujobi, whose speech was read during the occasion, noted that, from inception, the collective vision had been clear—to empower female engineers, inspire the next generation, and create a strong support system for women in STEM.
She added that over the years, the Association under her leadership had worked tirelessly to carry out impactful initiatives, including visits to orphanages, supporting the less-privileged, and embodying the spirit of compassion and social responsibility.
At the event, the newly appointed Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Engineer Bashir Ojulari, was honoured with an Excellence in Leadership award.
The President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Margaret Oguntala, in her remarks, called on stakeholders to prioritise the education of girls, given the important role women play in the development of society.
She urged the APWEN Chairman to demonstrate effective leadership by delivering tangible results that meet members’ expectations.
While congratulating the new leadership and encouraging them to surpass the achievements of their predecessors, the NSE President emphasised that effective leadership is crucial for advancing the interests of women engineers and promoting their participation in the engineering field.
She called on members to rally behind the new leadership and charged them to intensify efforts to promote girl-child education.
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