DistantNews
Support us
๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Culture & Society

WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria Graduates First Cohort of EngineerHer Programme

From ThisDay · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria graduated its first cohort of the EngineerHer program, designed to train female graduates for maritime industry roles.
  • The one-year initiative aims to increase female representation and build Nigeria's local talent pipeline through technical training, mentorship, and practical experience.
  • Some participants have secured roles within WACT, and a second cohort began in July 2026, underscoring the program's commitment to an inclusive workforce.

WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria celebrated a significant milestone with the graduation of the inaugural cohort of its EngineerHer program. This one-year initiative was specifically designed to equip female graduates with essential practical skills and industry exposure, creating clear pathways into employment within the maritime sector.

WACT EngineerHer programme (WEP) was launched with a clear ambition, to increase female representation in WACT and empower Nigerian women with the technical skills and competitive advantage needed to thrive in their chosen fields. From the first cohort, participants secured roles and scholarships using this platform. We mark an even greater milestone as our participants graduate and some step into substantive roles within WACT. The momentum continues, with a second cohort welcomed on July 1st, 2026. EngineerHer is more than a programme, it is a pipeline for talent, a platform of opportunity and a commitment to building a more inclusive and future-ready workforce for WACT and Nigeria at large.

โ€” Chinelo ObienyemWACT-APM Terminals Nigeria Senior People Business Partner, speaking on the program's milestone and future.

Launched in 2025, the program's core objectives are to boost female representation at WACT and to strengthen Nigeria's local talent pool. Through a comprehensive approach involving technical training, hands-on experience, and structured mentorship, participants gain the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence for operational roles.

The first cohort comprised eight selected participants, chosen for their potential and dedication to careers in maritime. Senior People Business Partner, Chinelo Obienyem, highlighted the program's success, noting that participants have already secured roles and scholarships. "We mark an even greater milestone as our participants graduate and some step into substantive roles within WACT," she stated, adding that a second cohort commenced on July 1, 2026. She emphasized that EngineerHer is more than just a program; it's a talent pipeline, an opportunity platform, and a commitment to a more inclusive and future-ready workforce for WACT and Nigeria.

I can now navigate the engineering profession with greater confidence and competence. The EngineerHer programme provides a strong foundation for any woman looking to grow both personally and professionally.

โ€” Helen Clinton OkpooA participant from the first cohort, describing her experience and growth.

Participants shared their positive experiences. Helen Clinton Okpoo, from the first cohort, expressed increased confidence and competence in navigating the engineering profession, calling the program a strong foundation for women's professional growth. Margaret Jiji Seignure noted the program's inclusive environment, sharing her surprise at being selected while pregnant and valuing the company's active support for female growth.

I applied while heavily pregnant and did not expect to be selected. Being part of a company that actively supports female growth and inclusion is premium.

โ€” Margaret Jiji SeignureHighlighting the program's inclusive environment.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ThisDay. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.