PENGASSAN seeks inclusive policies to promote gender equality

Deliverable mentorship and leadership programmes, flexible work arrangements and initiatives that encourage young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) will create a more inclusive environment for talents to thrive, President of Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Festus Osifo, has said.

Speaking at the PENGASSAN women’s yearly convention in Abuja, Osifo pledged continued advocacy for policies and practices that promote gender equality.

Paying glowing tributes to women working in every sector, Osifo stated that from industry-wide initiatives to company-specific diversity programmes, women are leading in fostering a collaborative culture that values diversity and inclusion.

“As we look to the future, it is imperative to inspire and support the next generation of dynamic women in the oil and gas industry. Mentorship, education and opportunities are key. We must provide young women with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to navigate and shape the future of our Association and the energy sector,” he said.

The PENGASSAN boss highlighted that by celebrating role models and sharing success stories, leaders could ignite the aspirations of young women everywhere, encouraging them to pursue their goals and make their mark in the industry, adding, “Let us commit to nurturing the next generation of dynamic women who will continue to drive innovation and sustainability in the oil and gas sector.

“Let us honour the dynamic women navigating the challenges of a constantly evolving world within the oil and gas industry. Their resilience, adaptability and collaborative spirit are lighting the way toward a brighter, more equitable and sustainable future. Let us commit to supporting and uplifting each other, recognising that when women rise, the entire industry benefits.”

On her part, National Chairperson of PENGSSAN Women Commission, Maryann Mbanaso, who is an engineer, said the commission was dedicated to promoting women’s involvement in unionism, providing leadership opportunities, and raising awareness about gender-based discrimination and harassment.

She lauded the leadership qualities exhibited by PENGASSAN for recognising the critical role women play in the industry.

“PENGASSAN, under the innovative leadership of Festus Osifo identified the need to enhance the structure of the defunct Woman-In-PENGASSAN (WIP) to ensure maximum impact and accountability,” she added.

Mbanaso stressed that the new structure not only strengthens the representation of women but also aligns with PENGASSAN’s mission of being a gender-friendly and all-inclusive union.

She stated: “It has also significantly increased women’s participation in PENGASSAN leadership, with at least two women in the Central Working Committee (CWC) and more than eight women in the oil and gas industry.”