“Organisations should see support systems — flexible scheduling, mental health awareness, and family-friendly policies — not as favours, but as strategic investments”.
Work–life balance took centre stage at the 2025 Women in Aviation International (WAI) Lagos Branch End-of-Year event, as industry stakeholders called for sustainable career structures that protect the wellbeing of professional women in the aviation sector.
Delivering a keynote address on the theme, “Work–Life Balance for Professional Women in Aviation,” former Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Mr. Nnamdi Udoh, described balance not as a luxury, but as a necessity for safety and long-term industry resilience.
“Aviation is not just a career. It is a calling,” Udoh said. “But a fatigued, burnt-out professional is a risk not only to herself, but to the entire aviation system.”
He noted that while the industry rigorously regulates crew duty times and mandates rest periods to prevent fatigue, many women silently endure exhaustion in a bid to prove themselves in a traditionally male-dominated field.
“Your value is not measured by how much of yourself you sacrifice,” he emphasised.
Udoh highlighted the unique pressures faced by women in aviation, including irregular shifts, high-stakes decision-making, recertification demands, and parallel responsibilities at home and in their communities. He urged organisations to see support systems — flexible scheduling, mental health awareness, and family-friendly policies — not as favours, but as strategic investments.
“Supporting work–life balance is an investment in retention, safety, diversity, and long-term industry growth,” he stated.
The message resonated strongly with participants, many of whom acknowledged that excellence and wellbeing must go hand in hand for the industry to thrive.
Speakers at the event stressed the importance of mentoring younger professionals to pursue success without burnout, challenging workplace cultures that glorify overwork, and building environments where women can thrive both personally and professionally.
As the gathering drew to a close, one message stood clear: when women in aviation are supported, balanced, and empowered, the entire industry becomes stronger, safer, and more sustainable.
The WAI Lagos Branch also used the occasion to recognise and bestow awards in various categories on outstanding professionals in the industry.
The Lifetime Achievement Award:
Hajia Salamatu Umar-Eluma – Grand Matron, WAI Nigeria
Dr. Mrs. Ndudinachi Rejoice – President, WAI Nigeria
The Woman of the Day Award:
Barr. Mrs. Erelu Olubukola Aduragbemi Teriba – Regional Manager, Lagos Regional Office, NCAA
The Best Performing Cargo Enterprise Award:
Mr. Izuchukwu Ogo – CEO, All Best Cargo & Logistics
The First Male Member, Women in Aviation Award:
Mazi Nnamdi Udoh – Former MD/CE, NAMA
The Outstanding Aviation He For She Award:
Sir. Adedoyin Adeyinka – CEO, ACORN Petroleum
Mr. Iwuajoku Uche – MD/CE, Quits Aviation
Mr. Izuchukwu Ogo – CEO, All Best Cargo & Logistics
The Excellence in Leadership Award:
Dr. Mrs. Olatunde Patience – MD/CEO, MAPRENA Consulting
Barr. Mrs. Egadon Rita – Director, Legal Services, NAMA
Dr. Mrs. Akinlade Oluwatoyin – General Manager, Training & HRD, FAAN
Mrs. Fagulu Irene – Head of Estate, FAAN
Engr. Mrs. Sowemimo Modinat – Vice President, WAI Nigeria
Mrs. Aminu Elizabeth – Former General Manager, Welfare, FAAN
Mrs. Mutiat Sholademi – Secretary, WAI Nigeria, Lagos Branch
Diplomat Mrs. Igbinosa Ruth – Vice Chairperson, WAI Nigeria, Lagos Branch
Mrs. Agbo Nkechi Queeneth – Assistant General Manager, AVSEC, FAAN
Mrs. Chima Ogechukwu – AGM, ICT, FAAN
Dr. Mrs. Nkechi Al-Ihekwaba – Airport Manager, Owerri, FAAN
The Outstanding Lagos State Chairperson Award:
Amb. Mrs. Ijeoma Chukwu.