The 2025 edition of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) Global Women’s Breakfast, hosted by Women in Chemistry, CSN Delta Chapter, in partnership with the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Warri Section 104, took place on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, Delta State.
The event, themed “Accelerating Equity in Science,” brought together distinguished professionals, scholars, and students, with a virtual audience joining via Zoom.
Representing the Principal and Chief Executive Officer of PTI, Engr. Dr. Samuel Onoji, the Director of Engineering, Engr. Dr. Ahmed A. Adamu, delivered the sponsor’s remarks, commending the increasing role of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). He highlighted that women are no longer demanding quotas but competing on merit and excelling in leadership roles.
“The contributions of women in chemistry and engineering are undeniable. Women are making groundbreaking discoveries and innovations that are transforming industries worldwide. The composition of PTI’s top management today is proof that women have earned their place in leadership,” Dr. Adamu remarked.
Speaking on behalf of Aradel Holdings, Mrs. Rita Olarewaju, General Manager of HR & Corporate Services, emphasized the need for continued efforts in bridging the gender gap in science and technology. She noted that despite the remarkable contributions of women in STEM, they remain underrepresented in the workforce.
In her goodwill message, Mrs. Bukola Adubi, CEO of MicCom Cables & Wires Ltd and President of the Cable Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, stressed the importance of promoting STEM education for girls and sharing the success stories of female scientists. She urged stakeholders to collaborate in fostering STEM education, emphasizing that such efforts would drive true gender equity in education.
Mr. Koida Owate, Chairman of the Chemical Society of Nigeria (CSN), Delta State Chapter, encouraged young girls to stay dedicated to the study of chemistry, affirming the society’s commitment to promoting STEM education.
Dr. (Mrs.) Sarah Nwinee, Coordinator of Women in Chemistry and host of the event, expressed her gratitude to sponsors and advocates of STEM education in Nigeria. She acknowledged Petroleum Training Institute, Aradel Holdings Plc, MicCom Cables & Wires, Edo Refinery & Petrochemicals Company, and Pinefon Empowerment Initiative for their invaluable support in making the event a success.
“Our goal is to promote STEM education in Nigeria, celebrate women and girls in science, serve our communities, and enhance women’s contributions to societal development. We must continue encouraging more women to pursue STEM careers, as they play a crucial role in modern advancements,” Dr. Nwinee stated.
Delivering a speech titled “Addressing the Gaps in Retaining Women and Girls in STEM,” Tamunotonye Biambo, Chairman of SPE Warri Section 104 and co-host of the event, emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration. He pledged to use his leadership position to advocate for policies that support women in STEM-related careers.
The keynote speaker, Abimbola Olujide, Lead Government Affairs Advisor, Policy Government and Public Affairs at Chevron Nigeria Limited, applauded Women in Chemistry for their resilience in breaking barriers and promoting STEM education. He reiterated that women have continuously demonstrated excellence in engineering and science fields.
A major highlight of the event was the Chemistry Quiz Competition for female science students from 14 secondary schools in Warri and its environs. Mr. Chukwuma Ebinum, a renowned chemistry teacher in Delta State, moderated the competition.
After a keenly contested quiz, Ebrumede Secondary School clinched first place, followed by Delta Careers College in second place, and Iteregbi Secondary School securing third.
Prof. (Mrs.) Mary Edema, former Provost of the College of Education, Warri, and a lecturer at the Chemistry Department, FUPRE, alongside Dr. (Mrs.) Tina O. Isichei, Director of Research and Development at PTI, presented prizes to the winners. Consolation prizes, including Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics textbooks, were also awarded to all participants.
Miss Edirin Favour and Igbuwe Emamezi Marvelous, representing Ebrumede Secondary School, expressed gratitude to their chemistry teacher, Mrs. Blessing Ojochenemi Emiovwoo, for her mentorship and guidance.
The event concluded on a high note, with a renewed commitment to advancing women’s participation in STEM and ensuring that more young girls embrace science and technology to drive innovation and national development.
