The West Africa Container Terminal (WACT), operated by APM Terminals Nigeria, has launched its inaugural “EngineerHer” programme — an initiative aimed at increasing female representation in engineering roles at WACT, while empowering women engineering graduates within its host communities and across Nigeria.
The first cohort comprises eight young women who will receive hands-on technical training, mentorship, and leadership development opportunities. This one-year programme is designed to kick-start their careers and reinforce WACT’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion by nurturing the next generation of female engineering professionals.
Despite making up nearly half of Nigeria’s population, women constitute just 5% of practising engineers in the country — a stark statistic that underscores the importance of deliberate, inclusive initiatives like “EngineerHer”.
Managing Director of WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, Jeethu Jose, emphasised the company’s dedication to its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) agenda.
“The EngineerHer programme is more than just a scheme; it is a testament to our DEI commitment. Equal opportunities for all is a core organisational priority. During the intensive one-year programme, beneficiaries will undergo on-the-job training designed to equip them with the skills and experience required to thrive in the workforce — whether at WACT or with any multinational company. We are proud to create a platform where women can thrive, lead, and shape the future of engineering,” he said.
Senior People Business Partner at WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, Chinelo Obienyem, highlighted the broader industry implications of the initiative: “By providing opportunities for female engineers to develop their skills, gain industry experience, and build professional networks, we aim to increase female representation at WACT and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive engineering sector.
“We also recognise that meaningful change requires intentional action. The EngineerHer programme reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are encouraged by the progress so far and look forward to the impact these eight talented engineers will have on the industry.”
Participants, selected through a rigorous and competitive process, expressed their enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity.
One of the beneficiaries, Margaret Jiji Seignure, said, “As a female engineer, one of my biggest fears was graduating only to abandon my career due to a lack of opportunity. I had longed for a chance to practise and grow in my field. The EngineerHer programme has been a dream come true. I was thrilled to be selected, especially because the process was so fair and transparent. I feel truly privileged to be given this platform.”
Another participant, Okpoo Helen Clinton, said, “I was overjoyed. During the interview, I observed how organised and goal-oriented the team was — that’s when I knew WACT was the right place to build my career. The few weeks I’ve spent here have exceeded my expectations, and I’ve come to appreciate WACT’s high standards of professionalism.”
With “EngineerHer”, WACT not only invests in the professional futures of these young women but also sends a strong signal to the industry on the importance of diversity and empowerment through action.
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