Women in Aviation charged to promote safety
Women professionals in Nigeria’s aviation industry have been urged to play a more strategic role in strengthening air safety and promoting long-term sustainability across the sector. The charge was given at the annual award of the Nigeria Chapter of Women in Aviation International (WAI), Lagos Branch, where stakeholders emphasised the growing influence of women in […]
Women professionals in Nigeria’s aviation industry have been urged to play a more strategic role in strengthening air safety and promoting long-term sustainability across the sector.
The charge was given at the annual award of the Nigeria Chapter of Women in Aviation International (WAI), Lagos Branch, where stakeholders emphasised the growing influence of women in shaping the future of the industry.
Speakers at the gathering stressed that as aviation continues to evolve with new technologies, environmental concerns and heightened safety demands, women must position themselves not only as participants but as drivers of innovation and institutional excellence.
Former Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Mazi Nnamdi Udoh, highlighted the importance of work–life balance as a safety imperative, noting that fatigue and burnout pose risks within the highly sensitive aviation ecosystem.
According to him, aviation safety goes beyond aircraft and equipment, extending to the physical and mental wellbeing of personnel.
“A fatigued professional is a risk to herself and to the entire aviation system,” he said, urging female professionals to adopt smarter work strategies, set boundaries and advocate healthier workplace cultures.
Udoh further encouraged women to mentor younger entrants into the industry, helping them pursue career advancement without compromising personal wellbeing.
President of WAI Nigeria Chapter, Mrs. Rejoice Ndudinachi, described the organisation as a movement committed to empowering women and creating opportunities across technical, operational and leadership roles in aviation.
She noted that from its beginnings in Lagos, the association has expanded to over 17 branches and aviation clubs nationwide, reflecting growing participation and influence of women in the sector.
Also speaking, the Regional Manager, Lagos Region of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Erelu Olubukola Aduragbemi Teriba, said the mission of WAI aligns with the broader goals of safety regulation and sustainable industry growth.
According to her, empowering women in aviation is not only about equity but about enhancing competence, innovation and resilience within the industry.
“When women rise together with purpose and preparation, the industry does more than grow—it transforms,” she stated.
Chairperson, WAI Lagos Branch, Amb. Ijeoma Chukwu said, “Our theme for this year, A Heart of Gratitude, A Vision for Tomorrow, is a call to action, inspiring us to contribute even more meaningfully to our growth as women in the aerospace and the impact we have on the next generation. Through open dialogue, collaboration, and shared vision, we hope to strengthen our bond and make lasting contributions to our community.”