A diverse workforce that values women’s contributions is not merely a moral imperative, but a strategic advantage for speedy economic development.
President of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Festus Osifo, who stated this in Abuja, at the yearly PENGASSAN Women convention, argued that organisations that embrace gender diversity, achieve higher levels of performance and innovation. He noted that by recognising and promoting the skills and capacities of women, society is investing in the future of industries and communities.

“Today, working women are integral to our economy and society. They are the backbone of our workforce, contributing significantly to productivity, creativity and advancement across all sectors. In our home, they are nurturers, educators and role models, demonstrating the power of resilience and adaptability. Yet, despite these contributions, working women continue to face challenges that require our attention and action,” he said.

While urging women to support one another, Osifo submitted: “Let us emphasise the importance of collaboration among women. When you support one another, you amplify your influence and impact. So, you leverage your networks and seize the opportunities to mentor and champion each other. Each step you take to uplift your peers not only enhances individual career paths but strengthens our entire organisation and creates a legacy of support for future generations.”

Osifo lamented that working women in PENGASSAN, like those in sectors, face a range of challenges that can impact their careers and overall well-being.

On the persisting gender discrimination in the workplace, the PENGASSAN chief observed that despite progress, women still encounter biases and stereotypes that undermine their roles and contributions in the workplace, which makes it difficult to gain equal opportunities for promotion and advancement.

He added that working women still find it hard to strike a balance between work and life, saying many working women juggle professional responsibilities with household duties, caregiving roles and personal commitments.

To address challenges that women in energy are confronting, Osifo said there is a need for the implementation of a multi-faceted approach that includes policy advocacy, support programmes and cultural shifts within organisations.

He stated: “Work with industry stakeholders to develop and enforce gender-inclusive employment policies that promote equality in hiring, pay, and advancement opportunities. Support the establishment of comprehensive maternity and parental leave policies, ensuring flexibility and adequate support for all working parents.”

He further stressed that by taking concrete and strategic steps, labour unions will be able to play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges faced by women in the oil and gas industry.

However, he conceded that addressing identified problems requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to create a more inclusive, supportive and equitable working environment for women.

In her welcome remarks, National Chairperson, PENGASSAN Women Commission, Dr Maryann Mbanaso, said women are making their marks across the oil and gas industry.

She said: “From rigs to the boardrooms; from policymaking to innovation labs; from operations to strategy, we are shifting paradigms with bold ideas, strategic thinking and fearless leadership.”

Mbanaso added that the conference is a platform to stand in collective power to say, with clarity and confidence, that women are not just participating in the energy industry, they are leading it.