A Milestone for Gender Inclusion in Nigeria’s Energy Sector
— The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has officially launched the Women in NNPC (WIN) initiative, marking a significant step toward fostering greater inclusion, diversity, and leadership opportunities for women in the organization and the wider energy industry.
The launch event took place yesterday at the NNPC Towers in Abuja, establishing WIN as a dedicated institutional platform to inspire, support, and empower women across all levels of the company. The initiative focuses on attracting, retaining, and developing top female talent while creating a supportive environment where women can thrive and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s energy future.
In his keynote address during the launch, NNPC Ltd’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, described WIN as a strategic investment in the company’s human capital. “WIN does not replace merit. It strengthens readiness. It does not create advantage. It removes unintended barriers. And most importantly, it does not divide us. It connects us,” Ojulari emphasized. He added that “NNPC wins when our women win. And when women win, organisations and nations move forward.”
The event included a panel discussion titled “Winning in the Sector: Women Shaping Nigeria’s Energy Future on Their Own Terms,” where senior female leaders shared insights on resilience, mentorship, and breaking barriers in the traditionally male-dominated energy sector.
A major highlight was the official unveiling of the WIN logo, coordinated by Executive Vice President, Business Services, Sophia Mbakwe. The new branding symbolizes NNPC Ltd’s alignment with global best practices in diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Through WIN, NNPC Ltd reaffirms its commitment to building a more innovative, equitable, and sustainable energy sector. By prioritizing women’s advancement, the company aims to harness diverse perspectives to drive progress and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global energy landscape.
The initiative comes amid broader efforts by NNPC Ltd to promote gender equality and empower women, aligning with international standards and contributing to national development goals. Stakeholders view WIN as a forward-thinking move that positions NNPC Ltd as a leader in inclusive workplace transformation within Africa’s energy industry.
