Chinwe Odita
The Women in Energy Network (WIEN) on Wednesday evening held its Gala and Awards Night at the prestigious Metropolitan Club, Kofo Abayomi Drive, Victoria Island, Lagos, bringing together key players, professionals and stakeholders in the energy industry to celebrate excellence, leadership and the contributions of women to the sector.
The event, which provided a platform for networking, recognition and renewed commitment to the advancement of women in the energy industry, featured an opening address by the Chairperson of the Occasion, Mrs Cecilia Aqua Umoren, a keynote address by Dr Mutiu Sunmonu, CON, Chairman of The Sage Centre for Excellence, and a pep talk by the President of WIEN, Eyono Fatayi-Williams.
In her opening address, Mrs Cecilia Aqua Umoren formally set the tone for the evening, welcoming guests and acknowledging the importance of the occasion in celebrating the achievements and contributions of women in the energy sector.
Her address underscored the significance of recognising excellence and creating opportunities for women to contribute meaningfully to the growth, transformation and sustainability of the industry.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr Mutiu Sunmonu, CON, Chairman of The Sage Centre for Excellence.
His participation brought an important leadership perspective to the gathering, highlighting the value of excellence, professional development and effective leadership in building a stronger energy industry.
The keynote session was one of the major highlights of the evening, providing an opportunity for reflection on the role of leadership and the importance of developing talent and building institutions capable of sustaining progress in the sector.
Also speaking at the event, WIEN President, Eyono Fatayi-Williams, delivered a pep talk that reinforced the network’s commitment to empowering women and strengthening their participation and influence across the energy value chain.
Her engagement with members and guests provided an opportunity to encourage greater ambition, professional excellence, collaboration and purposeful leadership among women working in the industry.
The Gala and Awards Night also served as a celebration of individuals and organisations whose contributions have helped advance the energy sector and promote greater inclusion and opportunities for women.
Beyond the glamour and celebration associated with the occasion, the event reflected WIEN’s broader mission of building a supportive professional community, promoting mentorship, encouraging leadership development and creating greater visibility for women in the energy industry.
The gathering was a celebratory one, with renewed emphasis on the importance of collaboration, recognition and collective action in shaping a more inclusive and progressive energy sector.
Through initiatives such as the Gala and Awards Night, the Women in Energy Network continues to provide a platform for celebrating achievement, inspiring the next generation of female energy professionals and advancing the conversation on women’s leadership in Nigeria’s energy industry.
The evening also featured drama and great music for the entertainment of guests and stakeholders and there was plenty to eat and drink for all.
