One of the defining aviation industry events at the close of this year – 2025 was the Annual Conference of Women in Aviation International (WAI), Nigeria Chapter, which brought together female aviation professionals from across the country in a vibrant celebration of excellence, mentorship, and industry advancement.
The four-day conference, hosted by the Ibadan Chapter of WAI Nigeria, was held from November 4 to 7, 2025, at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), Ibadan. The gathering attracted participants from various states, creating a powerful network of women united by a shared commitment to advancing Nigeria’s aviation industry.
With the theme, “Engage! Connect! Inspire!”, the conference provided a dynamic platform for meaningful dialogue, professional development, and strategic collaboration. The atmosphere throughout the event was marked by enthusiasm and camaraderie, as participants exchanged ideas, shared experiences, and strengthened bonds within the aviation community.
Activities lined up for the conference reflected a blend of professional engagement and social interaction. They included a thanksgiving session, courtesy visits to dignitaries in Oyo State, mentoring programmes, seminars, workshops, and fitness dance sessions designed to promote wellness and team spirit.
A major highlight of the event was a courtesy visit to the traditional ruler of Ibadan land, the Olu of Ibadan, underscoring the chapter’s respect for cultural heritage and its efforts to foster strong community relations.
The conference culminated in a grand gala night and award presentation ceremony, where distinguished personalities and professionals were honoured for their outstanding contributions to society and the aviation industry. The awards recognised individuals whose passion for excellence and leadership have elevated their organisations to enviable heights.
Among the notable award recipients were the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barr. Festus Keyamo; the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN); female aviation journalists; and dedicated members of the WAI Nigeria Chapter who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the association’s objectives.
Speaking at the event, the President of WAI Nigeria Chapter, Dr. Mrs. Rejoice Ndudinachi, expressed delight at the overwhelming success of the conference. She described the awards as a token of appreciation for the recipients’ unwavering dedication to the development and growth of Nigeria’s Aviation Industry.
Ndudinachi charged members of the association and stakeholders across the sector to remain steadfast in their collective pursuit of a globally competitive Nigerian Aviation Industry. She emphasised that collaboration, mentorship, and continuous engagement remain vital to empowering more women to take up leadership roles within the sector.
Women in Aviation International (WAI) Nigeria Chapter is a non-profit organisation dedicated to encouraging and supporting the advancement of women in all aviation careers and interests.
It is affiliated with Women in Aviation International, headquartered in the United States of America, and continues to play a strategic role in nurturing the next generation of female aviation professionals in Nigeria.