IWD: Aviation Union Leaders Push for Greater Empowerment of Nigerian Women
Aviation unionists under the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), in a powerful display of solidarity and advocacy, came together to mark International Women’s Day 2025 with a resounding call for gender equity, women’s empowerment, and transformative action across the industry and nation.
Themed “Accelerate Action for Women’s Rights, Gender Equity, and Women Empowerment,” the occasion was marked by rousing speeches from prominent ANAP figures, who underscored the urgent need to break systemic barriers, uplift female voices, and drive bold change.
Addressing a hall filled with dignitaries, professionals, and stakeholders, Comrade Ogochukwu Ibegbunam, National Women’s Leader of ANAP, set the tone with a speech that electrified the room and inspired a standing ovation.
“This is our time. This is our moment. Let’s accelerate the action — and never look back!” Ibegbunam declared with fervour, adding that the theme of the day was more than a slogan — it was a soul-deep cry for recognition, justice, and inclusion.
With passion and clarity, she challenged the industry and the nation at large to view women not as subjects of sympathy, but as agents of change, ready to lead with resilience and vision.
“We are gathered here not just to mark a date on the calendar, but to ignite a fire — a fire that will burn away the barriers of injustice, inequality, and silence,” she said. “Every woman deserves a seat at the table, a voice in decision-making, equal pay for equal work, and a future free of discrimination and fear.”
Honouring women past and present, Ibegbunam celebrated their achievements and the legacy they are creating for generations to come. “In aviation, in leadership, in every walk of life — women have proven that when we are given the wings, we don’t just fly — we lift the world with us,” she affirmed.
Her call to action was not only directed at women, but also at men, whom she urged to become allies in the pursuit of a just and inclusive society. “Let today be a reminder that empowering a woman is empowering a nation,” she added.
Echoing this spirit of appreciation and determination, Comrade Afatakpa Evuarherhe Patrick, Chairman of the ANAP NAMA Branch, delivered his own heartfelt tribute to women’s achievements and potential.
“Today, as we gather under the banner of International Women’s Day, my heart is filled with pride, gratitude, and hope,” Patrick said. “Our women are not just caregivers; they are builders. They are not just supporters; they are leaders.”
Describing the day as more than ceremonial, he emphasised the deep and lasting impact women have made across every stratum of society — especially in aviation. “Where they stand, things grow. Where they lead, lives change. Where they dream, futures are born,” he noted.
Patrick paid homage to the courage and sacrifices of women who have broken barriers with dignity and strength, assuring that within ANAP and NAMA, their voices and aspirations are seen, heard, and valued.
“To every woman here: know that you are powerful beyond measure. You are the heartbeat of our society. You are the reason the sky is not the limit, but only the beginning,” he said with conviction.
He concluded by reaffirming ANAP’s steadfast commitment to building an inclusive environment where women thrive and are celebrated not just once a year, but every single day. “Solidarity forever,” he declared.
The event stood as a testament to the growing momentum within the aviation sector to champion gender equity and celebrate the vital role women play in shaping the skies — and the future.
