Envoy challenges women on oil, gas

The Secretary, RH USA, and MD/CEO of KhatCSI Inc., Ambassador Khairat Animashaun-Ajiboye, has urged Nigerian women to take leading role in the country’s oil and gas sector, noting that diversity and inclusion in the sector could unlock millions of jobs and boost economic growth.

She gave this advice at the Economic Summit 2026 held at the Nigeria House in New York, during the week.

Amb. Animashaun-Ajiboye emphasised women’s crucial role in driving Nigeria’s energy potential. “We have the capacity to drive innovation, sustainability, and economic growth,” she said during Summit organized by All-Progressives Congress (APC) and called for diversity and inclusion in the sector.

She said despite Nigeria being Africa’s largest oil producer, women make up only 18-22 per cent of the workforce, with few in leadership positions.

She however, said initiatives like the Women in Oil and Gas Intervention Fund and Women in Nigeria’s Gas Sector (WINGS) aim to address these disparities.

She urged stakeholders to create a level playing field for women, citing benefits like job creation, emission reduction, and sustainable growth.

To achieve this, the diplomat advocated for gender-inclusive hiring, mentorship, STEM education for girls, and supportive policies.

“As Nigeria shifts to gas and renewables, women’s inclusion is vital for growth. We fuel not just engines, but hope, equality, and prosperity for generations,” Amb. Animashaun-Ajiboye said.

She emphasised the need for liberal policies and party slots for women in politics

In his address, the Renewed Hope USA Chairman, Chief Emeka Molokwu, urged the party leadership to create a template to ensure continuity in governance.

An expert in African and African Diaspora History, Prof. Hakeem Ibikunle Tijani, urged Nigerians in the diaspora to leverage platforms like the Diaspora Bridge Hub to share expertise and contribute to Nigeria’s development.

Prof. Tijani, who currently holds the position of Executive Director of the Office of Global Partnerships-Africa at Morgan State University, called on Nigerians living abroad to take advantage of the Trans-border Education Policy of president Bola Ahmed Tinubu to develop their home country.

He also encouraged them to network with local institutions, establish skills centres, innovate and cultivate potential entrepreneurial skills that would contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.

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Also in his address, Special Assistant on Diaspora Engagement, Prof. Balofin, noted progress in APC party membership across the US and Canada, supporting Prof. Tijani’s call for Nigerians to update and obtain voter’s cards.

Other dignitaries at the event include Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, APC National Chairman, who was represented by the National Deputy Chairman (South), Chief Emma Nweuku; Chief of Staff to APC National Chairman, Mustapha Bala; and the Senior Special Assistant to the National Chairman, Dr. Peace Londgdet

They all applauded the unity of purpose and the show of sincerity by APC Diaspora members and their commitment to President Tinubu’s 2027 success story.