In Pictures: PWAC 2024 PENGASSAN Women Annual Convention

Theme: The Dynamic Women Navigating Challenges in a Constantly Evolving World. 
 
The stories behind women’s participation in Trade unionism in Nigeria have transcended time and seasons, and the PENGASSAN Women's Commission (PWC) is proof of this evolution. The commission is dedicated to promoting women’s involvement in active trade unionism, providing leadership opportunities, and raising awareness about gender-based discrimination and harassment in the workplace. It is a beacon of progress and advocacy for women who ply their trade in the nation’s Oil and Gas sector. 
 
The Annual Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN, Women Annual Convention (PWAC 2024) with the theme “The Dynamic Women navigating challenges in a constantly evolving world,” was held at NICON Luxury Hotel in Abuja, from 9-10 July 2024.  cream and pageants of women are drawn from companies registered as members of our great Association.  


In his welcome address, the President of PENGASSAN, Comrade Festus Osifo, said that while progress has been made, much work still needs to be done to bridge the gender gap in our industry. He lamented that women are underrepresented in many areas, and there is a need to advocate for policies and practices that promote gender equality. He called on stakeholders to provide tools, knowledge, and confidence to navigate and shape the future of the Association and the energy sector.

 He said that women remain underrepresented, particularly in leadership roles and technical positions; addressing this imbalance is a matter of equity and a business imperative. He stressed that we must continue to advocate for policies and practices that promote gender equality, such as mentorship and leadership programs, flexible work arrangements, and initiatives that encourage young women to pursue careers in STEM fields.

Speaking, the National Chairperson of the PENGASSAN Women Commission, PWC, Maryann Mbanaso, said the theme for this year’s convention reflects the resilience, adaptability, and innovation that defines the women of PENGASSAN, noting that the event will motivate women to amplify their voices, especially in the Oil and Gas sector.