Sarat Braimah, the Lagos Area Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), has been recognized for her significant contributions to the maritime sector with the Most Influential Woman Award, presented by the Commonwealth Business Women Africa. This prestigious accolade celebrates her transformative leadership within NIWA and her inspiring role model status for young women aspiring to careers in maritime, particularly in Nigeria. Braimah’s effective human resource management, a hallmark of her tenure as the first female area manager of NIWA in Lagos, has garnered widespread appreciation from industry stakeholders and NIWA management alike. This recognition underscores her impact on the sector and her dedication to fostering a more inclusive and diverse maritime workforce.
Braimah’s accomplishments extend beyond her managerial role. She has been instrumental in driving positive change within NIWA, implementing innovative strategies to enhance its operations and effectiveness. Her leadership has not only improved the agency’s performance but has also created a more welcoming and supportive environment for women in the maritime industry. This award acknowledges her role as a trailblazer, paving the way for future generations of female maritime professionals. Her dedication and innovative approaches serve as a benchmark for excellence within the sector.
The Commonwealth Business Women Africa’s recognition of Braimah highlights the increasing prominence of women in leadership positions within the maritime sector. Traditionally a male-dominated field, the maritime industry is gradually embracing diversity and inclusion, with women like Braimah taking on significant roles and making substantial contributions. This award signifies a shift towards greater gender equality within the sector and serves as an encouragement for more women to pursue careers in maritime. It also acknowledges the crucial role that women play in shaping the future of the industry.
Beyond her professional achievements, Braimah’s commitment to mentorship and empowerment has further solidified her status as a role model. She actively encourages young people, especially women, to explore the diverse opportunities within the maritime world. Her passion for fostering the next generation of maritime professionals is evident in her dedication to providing guidance and support to aspiring young women. By sharing her experience and insights, Braimah inspires others to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams within the maritime sector. Her mentorship efforts are invaluable in cultivating a more diverse and inclusive maritime workforce.
Upon receiving the award, Braimah expressed her gratitude and reinforced her commitment to continuing her work as a mentor and advocate for women in the maritime industry. She called for the continued resilience and steadfastness of women in service across Nigeria and Africa, emphasizing their crucial role in national development. Her acceptance speech underscored the importance of female leadership and the need for greater representation of women in all sectors of society. Braimah’s words serve as a rallying cry for women to embrace their potential and contribute meaningfully to their communities and nations.
This award represents not only a personal achievement for Sarat Braimah but also a significant milestone for women in the maritime sector. It demonstrates the increasing recognition of women’s contributions to the industry and highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion. Braimah’s leadership, dedication, and commitment to mentorship serve as an inspiration to aspiring young women across Nigeria and beyond. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and the transformative impact of female leadership within traditionally male-dominated fields. This recognition is a well-deserved tribute to her groundbreaking work and an encouraging sign of progress towards greater gender equality in the maritime industry.
