THE ASSOCIATION of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Makurdi Chapter, has reaffirmed its dedication to advancing rural development through engineering solutions. This commitment was made during the inauguration of Engr. Aladi Onyeni Ebune as the chapter’s third Chairperson on Saturday in Makurdi.
The outgoing Chairperson, Engr. Dooshima Ngbian Mbapuun, described the leadership transition as a celebration of progress and continuity. She reported significant achievements by the chapter, attributing them to the collective dedication of its successive executives. Mbapuun expressed gratitude to all contributors and called for unity and cooperation to support the new administration.
A former Chairperson, Engr. Dr. Valerie Omale, commended the new leadership, highlighting Dr. Ebune’s vibrancy and proven commitment to mentoring young girls in engineering. Omale expressed confidence that the new chairman’s tenure would foster innovation and collaboration within the association.
The event’s guest speaker, Mrs. Agi Helen Wuese of the Civil Engineering Department at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, outlined persistent challenges in rural communities.
She identified poor road networks, water scarcity, sanitation issues, and limited staffing as areas requiring urgent engineering intervention.
Mrs. Wuese called on engineers across various specializations to provide targeted solutions. She also noted the historical progress of women in the profession, citing the growth from no registered female engineers in Nigeria in 1970 to a significant number today, and urged greater support from government and private organizations.
APWEN National President, Engr. Adebisi Osim, who presided over the inauguration, stated that Engr. Ebune was elected by consensus due to her reputation as a dependable professional.
Osim charged the new Chairperson to lead with courage, build strategic collaborations, and ensure the chapter’s voice remains influential nationally.
In her inaugural address, Engr. Ebune pledged a leadership of humility and collaboration, with a renewed focus on rural transformation.
She said her vision will be anchored on STEM advocacy, support for young female engineers, and community-based engineering projects.
Speaking with journalists, she elaborated on APWEN’s core mission to encourage, enhance, and excel, focusing on guiding the girl-child into STEM fields from primary school onward. She emphasised the need to dismantle gender stereotypes in the male-dominated engineering sector and to assure female graduates of rewarding career opportunities.
Regarding funding for her agenda, Dr. Ebune expressed confidence in forming partnerships with organizations and chief executives who have pledged support. Her broader plans include strengthening STEM outreach, acquiring an 18-seater bus, securing land for a permanent secretariat, and mobilizing resources to expand the chapter’s visibility and impact.
The ceremony also featured the induction of three new members and the presentation of awards to outstanding contributors.
The new executive committee was formally introduced, solidifying the chapter’s renewed leadership structure.
A consistent theme throughout the event was APWEN’s resolve to leverage engineering expertise to bridge infrastructural gaps, particularly in underserved rural communities.
