Dr. Chizoba Anyika, Chair BOT of WIME
…Celebrating courage, competence and commitment with excellence.
…The industries of maritime and energy will gain inclusive, innovative and globally competitive.
-Felix Douglas
In terms of innovation and projecting the future, women in the maritime and energy sectors are leading the charge, the Women in Maritime and Energy Awards (WIME) fifth anniversary was a delight with women who have driven purpose and created impact. WIME is an event for women who have reflected purpose driven leadership in their choosing career either in maritime or energy.
In her welcome address at the event, Dr. Chizoba Anyika, Deputy Managing Director of NIMASA and Chair of the Board of Trustees (BOT) of WIME said the anniversary has been inspiring for women in both sectors.
Dr. Anyika champions inclusion, leadership and impact across both industries.
She pointed out that when a woman is “empowered, it strengthened the industry, when you support her leadership, the future is secured.”
Continuing, Dr. Anyika made it known that the gathering is to celebrate a historic milestone, the landmark fifth year anniversary of WIME awards 2026.
On behalf of the BOT, she welcomed guests to the occasion who have dedicated excellence and transformative power of purposeful leadership.
She stated further that five years ago, in 2022 WIME was created out of a bold decision and vision, not merely for an award ceremony, but to ignite a movement rooted in visibility, recognition and firm belief that the contributions of women in maritime and energy must not only be acknowledged but celebrated.
These industries power economies, connect nations and sustain livelihoods, “yet for far too long, many women who labour tirelessly within these industries remain unseen and unheard.”
“Tonight we will change that narrative. As I look across the distinguished gathering, I see more than professionals and pioneers. I see leaders shifting the future of maritime operations, energy, sustainability, logistics, governance and innovation.”
“I also see women who have not only claimed their rightful seats at decision making tables, but have also built new tables where others may rise.”
This is leadership at its finest that builds, includes and transforms at this landmark celebration, she added.
Therefore, there is need to pay special tribute to he for she champions, WIME male allies who have worked this journey with the association. Those who have opened doors, created opportunities, mentored talent and stood as advocates for fairness and inclusion. Their partnership affects a timeless truth.
“Progress is strongest when it is shared; we celebrate you tonight as value partners in building industries that reflect equity, strength and excellence.”
Dr. Ayinka told the outstanding nominees that WIME celebrates their courage, competence and commitment to excellence. “Your work across maritime logistics, renewable energy operations, corporate governance, policy development and technical innovation is redefining industry standards and inspiring a new generation.”
“You are the proof that mastery, resilience and leadership know no gender, yet as we celebrate achievement, we must also remember the principle that has guided our journey as women, the principle of being together.”
WIME believes that when knowledge is given, it gains stronger institutions.
“When we give mentorship, we gain future leaders. When we give opportunities, we gain sustainable purpose.”
Continuing, Dr. Ayinka said that if support is given to one another, the industries of maritime and energy will gain industries that are inclusive, innovative and globally competitive.
The journey is far from over. Excellence flourishes when equity exists therefore people must continue to mentor intentionally, collaborate strategically and advocate boldly for policies that create lasting opportunities for women across maritime and energy sectors.
The NIMASA Deputy Managing Director appreciated sponsors, partners, and dedicated organizing committee whose tireless commitment has made the landmark celebration possible.
The committee’s support reflects the strength of collective purpose and power of shared vision.
She said the awards night represents recognition, momentum towards inclusion and excellence.
“It is momentum towards a future where leadership is defined not by gender, but by impact. It is therefore my distinguished honor and privilege to formally declare the 2026 women landmark fifth year award ceremony officially open.”
The WIME BOT Chair stated further that the awards night is an evening with inspired meaningful connections, renewed purpose and stronger commitment to advancing women in maritime and energy.
There were many categories of awards given to women who had outstanding and progressive careers in maritime and energy sectors.
Lifetime achievement award was won by Patience Maseli who spent 35 years at the Department of Petroleum Resources now NUPRC. Trailblazer in Energy Excellence award was given to Godery Ogbechei of Rainoil, rising woman in maritime went to Chiamaka Mogo.
Dr. Bolaji Ogundare won the award for He for She category. Others won awards for outstanding women in maritime, lifetime achievement in maritime, diversity champion, trailblazer in maritime among others.
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