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Maritime experts have encouraged Nigerian women to practice frequent self-appraisal and embrace mentorship in a bid to attain the zenith of their careers.
The Chairman of Integrated Oil and Gas, Capt. Emmanuel Iheanacho and the Vice Chairman of Nigerian Ports Consultative Council (NPCC), Chief Jean Chiazor Anishere SAN, made this appeal when Integrated Oil and Gas collaborated with Waterside Centre for a strategic summit in Lagos on Wednesday.
According to Iheanacho, women must embrace mentorship, especially in the area of knowledge transfer and skill development, stressing that this goes a long way to increase confidence and improve self awareness.
He remarked that there are lots of networking opportunities can could be explored if women step up to engage would-be mentors and approach mentorship with proper objectives that are measurable and attainable.
Addressing organisations in the maritime domain, the veteran ship captain stressed that to improve job satisfaction and retention of workers, the work environment must foster inclusivity with definite strategy for training and skills development.
Iheanacho also harped on the need for open communication and any organisational structure that allows feedback, emphasising that these ideals characterise inclusivity.
Meanwhile, Anishere challenged women in Nigeria’s maritime and energy sectors to embrace self-appraisal, diligence and leadership in order to rise to top positions in their organisations.
Speaking to female professionals at the event, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria stressed the importance of personal accountability and continuous self-evaluation rather than waiting for employers to measure performance.
Anishere emphasised that self-appraisal helps individuals improve their value and prepares them for leadership responsibilities. She said women who are diligent, loyal, passionate and trustworthy naturally position themselves for higher roles within their organisations.
The NPCC Vice Chairman further challenged women working in the maritime and energy sectors to see themselves as ambassadors of their companies and the industry at large. She noted that being dependable and trustworthy both within and outside the workplace is one of the key qualities that distinguishes high performers from others.
In her remarks, the Head of Human Resources, Integrated Oil and Gas Limited, Mrs. Helen Amajuoyi, said the event wasn’t just to celebrate the achievement of women, but also enhance the impact of women shaping the workplace, the maritime industry, and the society.
“At Integrated Oil and Gas, we are proud to celebrate IWD and women across the world we live in. The women here are driving innovation and demonstrating leadership. As an organisation, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every woman is empowered,” she said.
Also speaking, the CEO of Waterside Centre, Dr. Hope Orivri, encouraged the women participants to take pride in the work that they do and give it their best all the time.
‘If you’re a cleaner or front desk officer, your job is as important as the Human Resources Manager and Chief Executive. Put in your best at all times. I will tell you a story about myself. I started in the maritime industry as a journalist several years ago. I never make so much noise but if there is a need to interview or talk to any person at all; I will get it done.
“There is a saying that whatever you do; do it well. If you have to sell tomatoes or clean the office; do it well. This would ensure that it gives you joy and satisfaction,” the veteran journalist and publisher of OnePage Africa said.
