By isqil Najim
The MD, Wurvicat Nigeria Limited and Vice Chairman of Lagos Chapter of the Association of professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, Engr Atinuke Wuraola Owolabi has urged the stakeholders at all level to recognize and celebrate achievements of successful women in the society as a part of the steps towards empowering more women.
Owolabi Agbaje made this call during her presentation, titled: “Role of Women in Politics, Leadership Position, Entrepreneurship and Career Development” at the University of Ilorin Annual Women Conference where she was the Guest Speaker on June 20, 2023.. The event was organised by the University of Ilorin Students’ Union Government (SUG).
Reminiscing her challenge as a female in male dominated profession, Owolabi said that women are much capable of achieving success in any profession. Many are however not recognised enough, giving the impression that they are not suitable for position. This attitude demotivate women who were still trying to find their way up in their career.
Owolabi, who is also a chieftain of All Progressive Congress party cited examples of women who have conquered their professional spaces and excelling in their calling, in politics, entrepreneurship and professional career.
“I left the university over 20 years ago and here I am, speaking to the thousands of the female students of the great citadel of learning. The University has shaped me to be where I am today. University is not just a place to learn only the academics but rather, it’s also a place to meet people that will help you in your journey to destiny and career path, and that is when it can be said that one passed through the school and likewise the school passed through such a person, and indeed Unilorin is such a good school for all round learnings. Never pass through a school without making an impact.” She recalled.
“As you all know, the women conference is a gathering of all females to deliberate on the issues that affect us . The knowledge gained in every conference gives impacts and reshapes our thoughts and prepares us to be better women in the society.” She said, adding that the future of every nation is female.
Owolabi Spoke extensively on Politics,leadership and entrepreneurship while impressing the budding engineers to gear up for adventures where their strength can be fully harnessed.
She advise the female engineers to choose their career carefully as making the right decision will increase their chance of success outside the classroom. She urged them to ensure they acquire requisite skills needed to pursue their chosen career.
Owolabi said that women play pivotal roles in all spheres of human endeavours along with their traditional roles in the family. The Multitasking nature of women. has positioned them for success to the very top of their chosen career if they put their heart into it.
“Throughout history, women have consistently shattered barriers, proving their competences and capabilities in these fields, which were traditionally dominated by men. It is essential to recognize their contributions and foster an environment that empowers women to excel in these areas and break the barriers in many vocations.
“The inclusion of women in politics has risen rapidly over the years. Women leaders have emerged on the global stage, demonstrating their capabilities to govern and lead nations effectively. We see them play active roles in political decision-making and such policies address the needs of all citizens. The participation of women in politics promotes a fairer and more balanced society, as women bring unique perspectives and insights to the table.’ She said.
Despite the many known challenges that face them, Owolabi said that “Women are to play significant roles in whatever position they find themselves and these roles are quite significant and important for both the political, economical and organisational needs.”
She urged all stakeholders to address gender disparity in leadership positions, politics and entrepreneurship.
Owolabi advise women to collaborate the men and not see each other as competitors. According to her, “We need to engage, mobilise and negotiate with them for us to achieve any meaningful results”
She added that “Expanding participation and balanced political participation and power-sharing between women and men in decision-making is the internationally agreed target set in the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.”
By embracing and celebrating the talents and capabilities and achievements of women, we can unlock a world of untapped potentials, benefiting individuals, communities, and the world at large.