International Women's Day: Companies in energy sector face charges over lack of female representation in senior roles

Audrey Joe-Ezigbo, CEO of Falcon Corporation Limited, is urging Nigeria's energy industry to increase its efforts to appoint women to senior leadership positions, particularly in the gas value chain, as the sector marks International Women's Day 2026.

This call to action is part of the global celebration of women's social, economic, and political achievements, with Audrey Joe-Ezigbo highlighting the progress made so far.

The growing number of female chief executives and managing directors in Nigeria's energy sector is a significant shift in the industry's leadership structure, which has historically been male-dominated, according to Audrey Joe-Ezigbo.

Audrey Joe-Ezigbo reflected on the notable advancements made by women who have taken on top leadership roles in the energy sector since the start of the decade.

She acknowledged key national energy leaders, including Mrs. Olu Arowolo Verheijen, Special Adviser to the President on Energy, who has driven policy advocacy to elevate strategic dialogue on energy reforms and sector investment.

Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Amanorisewo Eyesan, the newly confirmed CEO of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), was also recognized by Audrey Joe-Ezigbo for her leadership, which marks a historic milestone in regulatory governance and a strong signal of inclusive industry stewardship.

Audrey Joe-Ezigbo also celebrated the rise of influential female energy leaders, including Folake Soetan, Managing Director of Ikeja Electric, and Jennifer Adighije, Managing Director of Niger Delta Power Holding Company.

Other notable female energy leaders recognized by Audrey Joe-Ezigbo include Wola Joseph-Condotti, Interim CEO of Eko Electricity Distribution Company, and Elozino Olaniyan, Chief Executive of Midwestern Oil & Gas Company.

Distinguished upstream industry figures, such as Catherine Uju Ifejika of Brittania-U Nigeria Limited, were also acknowledged by Audrey Joe-Ezigbo for their contributions to the energy sector.