Folake Odusiga has made history by becoming the first female Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers for its Abuja branch. During an event honoring her as the 13th chairman and the first woman to hold this position, she expressed her commitment to advocating for more leadership roles for women in various sectors. Odusiga emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of women, remarking on the lack of female representation in leadership roles within the institution. Her election is not only a personal milestone but also a significant step towards promoting gender equality in the field, as she challenged the traditional barriers that have often prevented women from ascending to leadership positions.
In her speech, Odusiga highlighted the unique strengths and perspectives that women bring to leadership, arguing that their contributions can significantly enhance decision-making and organizational performance. She underscored that women should not just be participants but leaders who can influence change and progress within their respective fields. By drawing attention to the value of women in leadership, she hopes to inspire more women to pursue roles traditionally dominated by men, emphasizing the need for a shift in mindset regarding women’s capabilities in the professional realm.
Reflecting on her own journey, Odusiga acknowledged the challenges she faced as a woman in a field that has historically been male-dominated. She pointed out that there has been a trend where women were often discouraged from taking on leadership roles, but she is determined to set a new precedent. Her aim is to create pathways for future generations of women to step into leadership positions, reinforcing the notion that this change is not just desirable but also attainable. She expressed hope that her tenure will motivate other women within the institution to advocate for themselves and pursue leadership opportunities.
A significant aspect of Odusiga’s vision is her commitment to mentoring and encouraging younger generations. She articulated a plan to engage and inspire young girls, particularly those in secondary schools, to consider careers in estate surveying and valuers. By nurturing interest at an early age, she believes that it will be easier to cultivate a new generation of female leaders in the profession. Her approach underscores the importance of mentorship programs that can facilitate skill development and provide necessary support for young women aiming to enter the field.
In addition to advocating for women in leadership, Odusiga emphasized the critical need for collaboration between the public and private sectors in the estate surveying profession. She noted that a successful institution requires a strong partnership between these sectors, as both play vital roles in shaping policies and practices within the industry. Her vision includes fostering closer ties between private practice and public entities to enhance cooperation that would ultimately benefit the profession and its stakeholders. This emphasis on collaboration aligns with her broader goal of improving the estate surveying landscape in Nigeria.
In summary, Folake Odusiga’s appointment as the first female Chairman of the Abuja branch of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers marks a turning point for gender representation in the field. Her advocacy for women’s leadership, commitment to mentoring the next generation, and vision of bridging gaps between public and private sectors reflect a forward-thinking approach to transforming the profession. Through her journey, Odusiga aims not only to elevate her own career but also to pave the way for future female leaders, ensuring that they have the opportunities and support needed to thrive in a competitive environment. Her resolve to inspire change exemplifies the growing movement for gender equality in Nigeria’s professional landscapes.
