ANAP leaders urge bold action for women’s empowerment, equality
Leaders of the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), at an event to mark the International Women’s Day 2025 has called for gender equity, women’s empowerment, and transformative action across Nigeria aviation industry and the nation at large.
The call came amid a powerful display of solidarity and advocacy at the one-day occasion in Lagos with the theme: ‘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, their empowerment and drive change to ensure an egalitarian society.
In her address inside the hall filled with dignitaries, professionals, and stakeholders from across the different chapters of the association and the industry, National Women’s Leader of ANAP, Comrade Ogochukwu Ibegbunam set the tone with her call to action, a speech that electrified the room and inspired a standing ovation.
She declared “This is our time. This is our moment. Let’s accelerate the action — and never look back!” 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.
The ANAP women leader challenged the industry and Nigerians 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. 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.”
While honouring women past and present, Ibegbunam celebrated their achievements and the legacy they are creating for generations to come affirming that “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.”
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 saying “Let today be a reminder that empowering a woman is empowering a nation.”
Chairman of the ANAP NAMA Branch, Comrade Afatakpa Evuarherhe Patrick, echoed the message of hope, appreciation to the womenfolk for the works in all facets of life in the country and their determinations for a strong, virile Nigeria just as he also paid tribute to their achievements and potential.
Afatakpa echoed: “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 affirming that “Where they stand, things grow. Where they lead, lives change. Where they dream, futures are born,” he noted.
The ANAP leader 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 reaffirmed 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.”
Participants affirmed that the event is a testament to the growing momentum within the aviation sector to champion gender equality and celebrate the vital roles women play in shaping the skies —and the future of the industry and Nigeria.
