By| Helen Adeyi, Abuja
The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has called on the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria to take the lead in championing gender-responsive reforms across Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, emphasizing that such efforts are critical to national development.
The Honourable Minister while speaking at the 3rd edition of the PENGASSAN Women Annual Convention (PWAC 2026) in Abuja, said, advancing gender-sensitive policies would not only empower women but also strengthen families and drive sustainable economic growth.
“By championing gender-responsive reforms, you are not only advancing women, you are strengthening families, transforming industries, and accelerating national development,” she stated.
The convention, themed “The Dynamic Woman: Shaping Tomorrow — Influence, Impact and Legacy,” brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and women professionals to discuss the future of female participation in Nigeria’s energy sector.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim described the gathering as “strategic,” noting that women in the sector represent a powerful force capable of shaping policy, boosting productivity, and securing Nigeria’s energy future.
She aligned her message with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which she said prioritizes women, families, and vulnerable groups as central pillars of national development.
Highlighting government initiatives, the Minister pointed to the declaration of 2026 as the “Year of Families and Social Development,” stressing the need for institutions to adopt workplace policies that reflect family realities, including childcare support, maternity protection, and flexible work arrangements.
She also raised concerns over the low representation of women in the oil and gas sector, currently estimated at 15 to 20 percent, with even fewer in leadership roles.
According to her, this gap represents a significant loss of potential and economic value.
The Minister further underscored the importance of key government programmes such as the Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention (RHSII-774) and the Affirmative Procurement Policy, which aims to expand access to contracts and economic opportunities for women-owned businesses.
“These policies create a pathway from inclusion to influence, ensuring women move from the margins to the mainstream of economic power,” she added.
In his remarks, PENGASSAN President, Festus Osifo, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to gender inclusion, describing women as “leaders, innovators, and change-makers” within the association and the broader industry.
He commended the PENGASSAN Women Commission for its growing impact and increasing representation of women in leadership positions, while urging members to sustain advocacy for equality, mentorship, and capacity building.
Osifo, however, expressed concern over Nigeria’s economic challenges, including rising fuel prices linked to global tensions and worsening electricity supply, calling on the government to take urgent steps to ease the burden on citizens.
Earlier, the Chairperson of the PENGASSAN Women Commission, Maryann Ada Mbanaso, welcomed participants and highlighted the commission’s achievements in expanding women’s leadership within the union.
She noted that the convention has evolved into a critical platform for empowerment, dialogue, and advocacy, adding that women in PENGASSAN are increasingly taking on roles once considered unattainable.
“The dynamic woman is no longer just contributing to the future; she is shaping it,” Mbanaso said.
The convention continues with sessions focused on leadership development, mentorship, and policy engagement, as stakeholders push for deeper gender inclusion and systemic reforms within Nigeria’s energy sector.
