From left Executive Director WIME Tunbosun Afolayan, Commission Chief Executive, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and Keynote speaker Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, BoT Chair WIME Dr. Chizoba Anyika and DG Chamber of Shipping Mrs. Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike
It was an evening of elegance, prestige, and purposeful celebration as industry leaders, regulators, and professionals gathered at the Oriental Hotel, Lekki, to commemorate WIME @ 5, marking five impactful years of the Women in Maritime and Energy (WIME) initiative.
The milestone celebration brought together distinguished dignitaries from both the maritime and energy sectors, underscoring the growing synergy between industries that remain central to Nigeria’s economic advancement.
Delivering the opening remarks, Dr. Chizoba Anyika, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT) of Women in Maritime and Energy (WIME) Awards welcomed guests with reflection and gratitude, highlighting the steady growth and achievements of WIME since its inception. She noted that over the past five years, the organization has evolved into a respected platform dedicated to mentorship, professional development, and recognition of excellence among women across maritime and energy sectors. Dr. Anyika emphasized that the celebration was not merely about marking an anniversary but about acknowledging the resilience, competence, and determination of women who continue to shape the future of these industries.
A defining highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered in person by Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), who had been recognized as a Lifetime Honouree at the previous edition of the awards. Her presence reflected the increasing prominence of women at the highest levels of leadership within Nigeria’s energy sector.
In her keynote address, Mrs. Eyesan emphasized the importance of competence, resilience, and collaboration in sustaining growth across industries. She encouraged organizations to remain deliberate in creating opportunities for women and investing in capacity development that prepares them for leadership roles. Her message resonated strongly with attendees, reinforcing the role of inclusive leadership as a key driver of innovation and sustainable progress.
The evening also featured an engaging fireside chat, expertly moderated by Mrs. Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike, Director-General of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping. The session showcased insights from Mrs. Bassey Adie-Oronsaye, Chief Executive Officer of Loyz Marine, and Ms. Kanyisola Mba of Oando, who shared their perspectives on leadership, innovation, and creating opportunities in the maritime and energy sectors. Their discussion provided practical inspiration for professionals across all career levels and enriched the evening’s celebration of women’s leadership and industry impact.
Among the most inspiring highlights of the evening was the recognition of outstanding HeForShe Champions, honoring male leaders who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing women’s growth and leadership. Captain Warredi Enisuoh, a highly accomplished Nigerian maritime and aviation expert and Executive Director of Operations & Technical at Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, was honored as the HeForShe Champion for the Maritime Sector, celebrating his advocacy for inclusion and support for women’s professional development.
In the energy sector, the Group Executive Director of Pan Ocean Newcross was recognized as a HeForShe Champion, joining Dr. Nosa Omorodion of SLB, last year’s awardee, in demonstrating outstanding commitment to supporting women’s advancement within the sector. Their recognition underscores the growing partnership of male allies in fostering inclusion and empowerment across the energy industry.
The evening also celebrated emerging leaders through the Rising Woman Awards, recognizing promising professionals who represent the future of leadership. Deborah Akpedeye was honored as the Rising Woman for the Energy Sector, while Dorcas Uwem Jonah received the Rising Woman Award for the Maritime Sector, symbolizing WIME’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of female leaders.
Another significant recognition was the presentation of the Diversity Champion Award to Dr. Oladunmi Owo, acknowledging her dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion across professional spaces. Other distinguished honourees across various categories included Mrs. Juliana Saka, Mrs. Khadijat Sheidu-Shabi, and Chiamaka Mogo, whose recognitions emerged through a keenly contested nomination and voting process conducted via the WIME website, reflecting transparency and credibility.
The awards presentation was expertly conducted under the supervision of Mrs. Tunbosun Afolayan, Executive Director and BOT member of WIME, ensuring that the recognition process was organized, transparent, and reflective of the organization’s high standards.
Perhaps the most defining moment of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievers Award to Mrs. Patience Oghogho Maseli, who retired as Deputy Director of the Upstream Division at the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), and notably, the first woman to hold that position. Her exemplary leadership and enduring commitment to advancing women have left an indelible legacy across the maritime and energy sectors, inspiring generations of professionals.
Another historic milestone recorded during the celebration was the investiture of the WIME Advisory Board of Five, comprising Mrs. Iroghama Ogbeifun, Sandra Ekpe Igho, Ruth Chukwukezirim, Rosario Osobase, and Yinka Opeke, all distinguished professionals whose guidance is expected to strengthen WIME’s strategic direction.
The event was further distinguished by the presence of notable industry leaders and stakeholders, including Engr. Eyono Fatai-Williams, President of WIEN, Engr. Nnoli Akpedeye, Managing Director of Aradel Energy, Dr. Grace Orife, Managing Director of Adelaar Energy, and Mrs. Olajumoke Ajayi, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the West African Exploration and Production Company (WEPCO) and President of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), a renowned upstream expert and geoscience professional. Their presence underscored the strong institutional support for initiatives that promote leadership, diversity, and capacity development for women across the maritime and energy industries.
The success and seamless flow of the evening were further enhanced by the professionalism of the event management team led by Pro Ally, who ensured that participants were warmly received and well catered for from registration through cocktails and dinner creating an atmosphere of comfort, hospitality, and celebration befitting the milestone occasion.
The celebration also recognized the critical support of WIME’s sponsors and strategic partners, whose contributions have been instrumental in advancing the organization’s mission.
Their commitment to promoting women’s empowerment, professional development, and industry collaboration strengthened the impact of the evening and highlighted the importance of partnership in creating inclusive opportunities for women across the maritime and energy sectors.
Indeed, WIME @ 5 was more than an anniversary celebration; it was a powerful reflection of progress achieved and a reaffirmation of future possibilities. Five years after its inception, WIME stands as a testament to the power of structured empowerment, mentorship, and collaboration.
As Nigeria continues to deepen its maritime capabilities and expand its energy landscape, the contributions of women will remain indispensable. Their leadership, expertise, and innovation are essential to building industries that are resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive.
As the curtains fell on an evening defined by excellence and inspiration, one message resonated clearly: the first five years of WIME have laid a strong foundation, and the future promises even greater milestones for women, allies, and leaders committed to shaping a more inclusive and prosperous maritime and energy landscape.
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