Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, a leading construction firm, reaffirmed its dedication to fostering gender equality and inclusivity in the workplace through a series of commemorative events held across its various operational locations – Abuja, Lagos, Warri, Port Harcourt, and Uyo – in observance of International Women’s Day. The events, held under the global theme #AccelerateAction, provided a platform for employees to engage in insightful discussions on allyship and leadership, emphasizing the collective responsibility in promoting gender parity. The overarching aim was to not only celebrate the achievements of women but also to address the persistent challenges they face in achieving equality and to strategize on concrete actions to accelerate progress.
The gatherings brought together a diverse group of participants, including prominent figures from the financial services sector, representatives from the Nigeria Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), and key personnel from Julius Berger’s regional and functional departments. This cross-sectional representation underscored the importance of a multi-faceted approach to addressing gender inequality, recognizing that it requires collective action from various stakeholders across different sectors. The presence of experts and leaders from diverse fields facilitated a richer exchange of perspectives and insights, contributing to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding gender equality and the most effective ways to promote it.
Dr. Celestina Eke, Director-General of the NIQS Foundation, delivered a compelling address on the pivotal role of men as allies in the pursuit of gender equality. She emphasized the need to move beyond symbolic gestures of support towards concrete actions that drive transformative change. Dr. Eke highlighted that gender equality is not solely a women’s issue but a strategic imperative for economic growth, sustainable development, and global competitiveness. She challenged men to leverage their positions of influence and privilege to actively dismantle biases, overcome systemic barriers, and champion systemic change. Her call to action framed allyship not as a passive role but as an active engagement requiring men to step up and advocate for gender parity.
Dr. Abdulaziz Kaita, Director of Administration at Julius Berger, reiterated the company’s ongoing commitment to promoting an inclusive work environment and driving progress in gender equality. He acknowledged the significance of International Women’s Day in recognizing the invaluable contributions of women across various facets of society, from politics and business to the arts and within families. Dr. Kaita celebrated the achievements of women who have broken barriers and defied expectations, while also acknowledging the everyday heroines who provide inspiration and support. His remarks recognized the multifaceted roles women play and the importance of acknowledging their contributions on various levels.
While acknowledging the strides made in advancing women’s rights, Dr. Kaita emphasized the need for continued reflection and action. He drew attention to the persistent challenges women face, including barriers to leadership positions, unequal pay, and gender-based violence. He further highlighted the lack of access to education and healthcare that remains a stark reality for many girls in certain parts of the world. Dr. Kaita’s remarks served as a reminder that while progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to achieve true gender equality, particularly in addressing systemic issues and ensuring equitable opportunities for all women.
In Lagos, a panel of female leaders from within Julius Berger shared their experiences and insights on navigating the complexities of balancing professional aspirations with family responsibilities while simultaneously pursuing leadership opportunities. Ndifreke Nkocho, a Senior Executive Manager at the company, encouraged women to be assertive, seek out mentorship, and build strong support networks. She also proposed the establishment of regular forums where women could discuss career challenges and explore development opportunities, creating a platform for peer learning and mutual support. This initiative aimed to provide women with practical tools and resources to navigate the challenges they face and advance their careers. In other locations like Warri, employees participated in engaging keynote sessions, team-building activities, and creative expressions like sip-and-paint sessions, fostering a sense of empowerment and unity. Abimbola Erivona, Branch Manager of UBA Warri-Sapele Road, shared her personal journey in the corporate world, highlighting the triumphs and challenges of female leadership. These diverse activities across different locations demonstrated Julius Berger’s commitment to promoting an inclusive and supportive environment for women and fostering a culture of open dialogue and shared learning.
