Women in Maritime and Energy Awards Celebrate Trailblazing Achievements

Mary Nnah

The annual Women in Maritime and Energy Awards took center stage last Friday, 28th March, recognising outstanding contributions by women in two historically male-dominated industries. Held at the prestigious Oriental Hotel in Lagos, the ceremony celebrated the achievements of female leaders, innovators, and changemakers shaping the future of maritime and energy.

Dr. Chizoba Anyika, Advisory Board Chairperson, welcomed guests, saying, “Tonight is about more than just recognition; it’s about celebrating resilience, innovation, and the undeniable impact of each of us in these industries.” Anyika emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating, “When we work together, we create real opportunities for women to thrive.”

The event, now in its fourth year, showcased significant strides made towards gender diversity and inclusion in sectors traditionally dominated by men. Industry professionals, government representatives, and corporate leaders gathered to applaud the honorees and discuss the ongoing transformation within these fields.

The night’s top accolades went to Chief Mrs. Chinwe Ezenwa, who received the Titanium category Lifetime Achievement Award in Maritime, and Eyesan Oritsemeyiwa, who took home the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award in Energy. Ezenwa, the erstwhile Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer of the National Inland Waterways Authority, and Past Director of Maritime Services, Federal Ministry of Transport, was recognized for her remarkable contributions to the maritime industry. Oritsemeyiwa, Past Executive Vice President of Upstream at NNPC Ltd, was honored for her over 33 years of contributions to initiatives that recovered national oil production, closed stalled divestment transactions, and improved the upstream investment climate.

Keynote speaker Mrs. Olajumoke Ajayi, CEO Ingentia Energies and President-elect Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists, emphasized the importance of mentorship and breaking down barriers to entry in these industries. “We need to create environments where women feel empowered to lead and innovate,” she said. Ajayi, a leading advocate for women in STEM, highlighted the need for increased support and opportunities for women in maritime and energy.

Mrs. Modupe Oyeneyin, Division Manager, Supply Chain & procurement, Oando Energy Resources, also delivered a keynote address, focusing on the theme “Accelerate Action.” Oyeneyin emphasized the impactful role of women in helping organisations navigate change and building resilient culture.

As the maritime and energy sectors continue to evolve, initiatives like the Women in Maritime and Energy Awards play a crucial role in recognizing and encouraging the vital contributions of women. Organizers have already set their sights on 2026, with hopes to expand the program across Africa to highlight the work of women making an impact across the world.

With increasing awareness and support for gender diversity, the future looks promising for women in these industries. The 2025 Women in Maritime and Energy Awards have once again proven that when given the opportunity, women excel and drive innovation in even the most challenging fields.