Women in the transport and logistics profession have been asked to support each other to take on leading roles in the sector.
Chairman, Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Princess Vicky Haastrup gave this charge at the Women in Logistics and Transport (WILAT) 2015 Day celebration.
Haastrup, who was the chairman of the event, said women have key leadership roles to play in developing the transport sector.
She also called on successful women in the industry to mentor and support upcoming ones.
“Don’t sit down and expect manners to fall from heaven. You must go out there and prove your worth. Attend meetings, attend trainings, develop yourself and speak confidently,” Haastrup told the large gathering of professional women.
Wife of the Governor of Ogun State, Mrs. Funso Amosu, who was represented by the wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Folashade Adeoluwa, in her keynote address stressed the need for women to acquire skills relevant to their intended professions or vocations to remain competitive.
She advised women to always seek out forums as the one provided by WILAT to network.
Founder and President of WILAT- Hajia Aisha Ali-Ibrahim, in her welcome address at the event, expressed appreciation to “notable corporate amazons” for their unwavering support for WILAT since its formation past five years ago.
She said the association, which had a humble beginning in 2010, has now been established in 16 countries.
The countries, according to her, include Nigeria, Hong Kong, Uganda, India, Sri Lanka and South Africa.
She also listed Ireland, Pakistan, Zambia, Malaysia, Ghana, Tanzania, Gambia, Singapore and Zimbabwe as other countries where the women group has been established.
The highpoint of the 2015 WILAT Day celebration was the conferment of role model awards on General Manager, Medical Services of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Chinwe Abama; former National Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mrs. Sharon Ikeazor; and Justice Nike Coker of the Lagos State High Court.
A post-humous award was also conferred on Nigeria’s first female professor of law and former Vice Chancellor of the Lagos State University (LASU), Late Professor Jadesola Akande.
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