February 17, (THEWILL) — The President of Women in Aviation International (WAI), Nigeria Chapter, Mrs Rejoice Ndudinachi, has reinforced the identity of the organisation as a movement rather than a mere association, declaring that its growth and impact across the country stand as proof of its transformational mission.
Speaking at the End of 2025 Year Party organised by the Lagos Branch of WAI Nigeria, Ndudinachi described the gathering as more than a celebration, but a powerful reminder of how far the organisation has evolved from a single branch into a nationwide force.
According to her, Women in Aviation was born not simply as an association, but as a movement driven by belief, resilience and shared purpose.
“With Lagos as the starting point, today we have over 17 branches and 17 aviation clubs. That is not just growth in numbers; it is growth in influence, in mentorship, and in impact”, she said.
Ndudinachi noted that the milestone represents years of consistency and dedication.
“This is about years of showing up—even when it was hard. Years of learning, mentoring, supporting, and lifting one another. It represents women who refused to give up on their dreams and women who chose to help others rise along the way”, she stated.
She paid special tribute to the Lagos Branch, describing it as the cradle of the movement and a standard-bearer of passion, commitment and purpose within the aviation industry.
Also lending credence to the movement narrative was the Regional Manager, Lagos Region of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Erelu Olubukola Aduragbemi Teriba, who echoed the assertion that WAI is not simply an organisation but a movement of momentum.
Teriba emphasised that the mission of the group is deliberate and daring — empowering women and men in Nigeria to achieve possibilities once considered unimaginable through leadership, technology and economic transformation.
She expressed confidence that when women rise together with preparation and purpose, the entire aviation industry benefits.
Earlier in his keynote address, former Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Mazi Nnamdi Udoh, charged female aviation professionals to prioritise work–life balance, describing it as a necessity rather than a luxury.
Udoh warned that burnout and fatigue pose risks not only to individuals but to the broader aviation system. He urged women to work smarter, set healthy boundaries and mentor younger professionals to pursue excellence without sacrificing well-being.
“As women in aviation, we must advocate not only for safety in the air but also for sustainability on the ground. We must challenge workplace cultures that glorify overwork and instead promote performance with purpose”, he advised.
In her remarks, President of WAI Lagos Branch, Ambassador Ijeoma Chukwu, described the event as a testament to the strength of their shared legacy and collective spirit. She noted that the gathering provided an opportunity to reflect on progress, express gratitude and forge new paths that uphold the values and excellence of women in aviation.
Unveiling the 2026 theme, “Heart of Gratitude, A Vision for Tomorrow,” Chukwu said it was a call to contribute more meaningfully to the growth of women in the aviation space through open dialogue, collaboration and shared vision.
The high point of the event was the cutting of the anniversary cake and the presentation of awards to distinguished personalities who have made significant contributions to the aviation industry and the advancement of women.
Recipients of the “Excellence in Leadership Award” and “Lifetime Achievement Award” included Mazi Nnamdi Udoh, Ambassador Ijeoma Chukwu, Dr Nkechi Ihekwaba (Vice-President, WAI Nigeria Chapter), Engr. Modinat Sowemimo of Maprena Nigeria Limited, Dr Patience Olatunde, Uche Iwuajoku of Quits Aviation Services, Moroti Adedoyin-Adeyinka of Sahara Group, Dr Oluwatoyin Akinlade of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), former Lagos Chairperson Mrs Elizabeth Aminu, and Mrs Agbo Nkechi, among others.
Beyond the celebrations, the message was unmistakable: under Ndudinachi’s leadership, Women in Aviation International Nigeria Chapter has solidified its place not merely as an association of professionals, but as a purposeful movement reshaping the narrative and future of women in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
