…champions women’s empowerment
The Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP) Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA, Branch has commemorated the International Women’s Day, paying tribute to the remarkable contributions of women in the aviation industry.
In a heartfelt speech delivered at the celebration, the ANAP’s NAMA Branch Chairman, Comrade Patrick Afatakpa, highlighted the pivotal role women play in shaping the world.
According to him, women are not only caregivers and supporters but also builders and leaders, bringing strength, light, and endless possibilities to their various spheres of influence.
He acknowledged the significant impact women have made in the aviation industry, emphasizing that where they stand, things grow, and where they lead, lives change.
The ANAP NAMA Branch Chairman lauded the resilience and determination of women, who have overcome numerous challenges to achieve their goals, inspiring others with their remarkable stories.
He assured that the association values and recognizes the worth of women, pledging to create a future where their voices are heard, and their dreams are fully realized.
Comrade Afatakpa encouraged women to recognize their power and importance, stating that they are the heartbeat of society and the driving force behind progress.
He reaffirmed ANAP’s commitment to working alongside women to build a more inclusive, fair, and beautiful world.
While addressing the gathering, the National Woman Leader of ANAP, Comrade Ogochukwu Ibegbunam, called for urgent and collective action to accelerate women’s rights, gender equity, and empowerment across all sectors.
She described the theme of this year’s celebration, “Accelerate Action for Women’s Rights, Gender Equity, and Women Empowerment”, as a soulful call for justice and recognition.
“We are not just here to mark a date,” she said. “We are here to ignite a fire, one that will burn away the barriers of injustice, inequality, and silence.”
Comrade Ibegbunam, paid tribute to generations of women who have paved the way with their courage, while celebrating the achievements of women today and encouraging young girls to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
Highlighting the role of women in aviation and beyond, comrade Ibegbunam noted that when women are given the opportunity, they do not merely succeed, they elevate entire communities.
“We don’t just fly,” she declared. “We lift the world with us.”
“Every woman deserves a seat at the table, a voice in decision-making, and equal pay for equal work. She deserves to dream without limits and to live without boundaries.”
She appealed to all, regardless of gender, to become champions of equity and empowerment.
“Empowering a woman is empowering a nation. Let us leave here determined to open more doors, break more ceilings, and build a world where every woman, in aviation and beyond, can truly shine.”
The Managing Director, NAMA, Engr. Umar Farouk represented by the MMIA, Airspace Manager, Mr. Jonny Ogegere also joined in the celebration and applauded their contribution to the growth and development of the aviation industry.
The celebration also featured goodwill messages from sister unions, lecture on the day by Mrs. Tejiri Okeregbe, panel/interactive discussion/session.
