Could you introduce the Women in Energy Network and discuss its purpose and activities?

The Women in Energy Network (WIEN) is a professional initiative dedicated to fostering a gender-balanced, diverse, and inclusive energy sector in Nigeria. Our primary aim is to provide a platform where women across the energy value chain can collaborate, build confidence, advance their careers and businesses, and ensure overall progress. WIEN serves as a nexus for women in the energy sector, facilitating networking, skill development, and advocacy. Our core aspiration is to promote the active participation and advancement of women in leadership positions throughout the energy industry. We achieve this by engaging with business leaders, industry experts, government regulators, and women themselves to drive positive change and support national development initiatives.

What are WIEN's main objectives and strategies for achieving them?

Firstly, we seek to address the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions across the energy value chain. To achieve this, we advocate for policies and initiatives that recognize and support women's contributions to the industry. Additionally, we strive to enhance the quality of decision-making by promoting diverse perspectives and ideas within the sector. Our strategies include mentorship programs, skills development initiatives, advocacy efforts for gender-inclusive policies, and collaboration with stakeholders across the industry.

Can you provide an overview of the energy industry in Nigeria and rates of female participation? 

The Nigerian energy industry holds significant potential for growth and development, particularly with initiatives such as the ‘Decade of Gas’ aimed at transitioning to a gas-powered economy. However, the industry faces challenges such as high production costs and security concerns. In terms of female participation, there is still considerable room for improvement. Current estimates suggest that female representation in the industry is below 20%, reflecting a broader global trend of gender disparity in the energy sector. Increasing female participation is not only essential for achieving gender equality but also for maximizing the industry's potential and fostering inclusive growth.

How does WIEN advocate for regulatory change regarding female participation in the industry?

While there are currently no specific regulations targeting female participation in the energy sector in Nigeria, WIEN is actively engaged in advocating for gender-inclusive policies and initiatives. We collaborate with government agencies and regulators to highlight the importance of promoting women's participation in the industry and to advocate for the development of gender-specific policies and programs. Our goal is to ensure that women are recognized and valued for their contributions to the energy sector and that barriers to their participation are addressed.

What are the major challenges or obstacles facing women in the energy industry?

Women in the energy industry face various challenges and obstacles, including cultural barriers, work-life balance issues, and limited access to opportunities for advancement. WIEN is actively working to address these challenges through a multifaceted approach. We provide mentorship and networking opportunities to support women in their careers, advocate for policies that promote work-life balance and gender equality, and collaborate with industry stakeholders to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in the energy sector. Additionally, we focus on empowering women through skills development initiatives and education programs to ensure they have the tools and resources they need to succeed in the industry.

What are WIEN's future priorities and upcoming activities for the next year or two?

Looking ahead, WIEN's priorities include conducting research on women's participation in the energy industry to better understand the challenges and opportunities they face. We also plan to continue advocating for gender-inclusive policies and initiatives at both the government and industry levels. Additionally, we aim to establish a fund for girls in STEM education to encourage more young women to pursue careers in the energy sector. WIEN will also focus on building strategic partnerships and collaborations to further support the advancement of women in the industry. Overall, our goal is to continue driving positive change and fostering gender equality in the Nigerian energy sector.