By Godwin Oritse
WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria has marked the graduation of the first cohort of its EngineerHer programme, a one-year initiative designed to equip female graduates with practical skills, industry exposure and clear pathways into employment.
Launched in 2025, the programme was designed to increase female representation across WACT and strengthen Nigeria’s local talent pipeline. Through a combination of technical training, hands-on experience and structured mentorship, it equips participants with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in operational roles.
The first cohort began with eight participants selected for their potential and commitment to building careers in maritime.
Over the course of the programme, early impact was include two participants secured job and academic opportunities before completion, including roles with multinational companies and scholarship placements, Six participants completed the full one-year programme and graduated on June 30, 2026 and Some graduates have now been appointed into full-time roles at WACT.
These outcomes reflect both the quality of the training and the demand for skilled female engineers in the industry.
Speaking on the milestone, WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria Senior People Business Partner, Chinelo Obienyem said: “WACT EngineerHer programme (WEP) was launched with a clear ambition, to increase female representation in WACT and empower Nigerian women with the technical skills and competitive advantage needed to thrive in their chosen fields. From the first cohort, participants secured roles and scholarships using this platform.
We mark an even greater milestone as our participants graduate and some step into substantive roles within WACT. The momentum continues, with a second cohort welcomed on July 1st, 2026. EngineerHer is more than a programme, it is a pipeline for talent, a platform of opportunity and a commitment to building a more inclusive and future-ready workforce for WACT and Nigeria at large.”
Participants described the experience as both professionally and personally transformative.
Helen Clinton Okpoo, a participant from the first cohort, said: “I can now navigate the engineering profession with greater confidence and competence. The EngineerHer programme provides a strong foundation for any woman looking to grow both personally and professionally.”
Margaret Jiji Seignure highlighted the program’s inclusive environment: “I applied while heavily pregnant and did not expect to be selected. Being part of a company that actively supports female growth and inclusion is premium.”
The EngineerHer programme continues to demonstrate how structured development initiatives can create real opportunities, while addressing gender imbalance in technical fields.
With the second cohort already underway, the programme is set to expand its impact, contributing to a stronger, more inclusive workforce in Nigeria.
