BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Women in Aviation International (WAI), Nigeria Chapter, has celebrated the outstanding contributions of female journalists to the growth and visibility of Nigeria’s aviation sector, presenting them with the prestigious Aviation Media Awards at its 2025 Annual Conference in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The colourful event, held in the ancient city of Ibadan yesterday, brought together aviation stakeholders, regulators and media professionals in recognition of the vital role journalists play in shaping the narrative and progress of the aviation industry.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Rejoice Ndudinachi, President of WAI Nigeria, applauded the awardees for their professionalism and consistency in promoting aviation development through impactful storytelling.
“The media remains a strong force in driving the growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry,” she said. “Excellence in aviation reporting has helped spotlight the nation’s achievements and positioned our sector on the global stage.”
One of the honourees, Mrs. Nosa Aituamen of Radio Nigeria, expressed delight at the recognition, describing it as “rare and deeply encouraging for female journalists who often work behind the scenes.” She added that the gesture would “motivate more women in the media to take interest in aviation reporting and continue raising the bar.”
Similarly, Mrs. Pearl Ngwama, Publisher of JustNews Online, praised WAI Nigeria for celebrating female journalists, noting that women had played an essential role in shaping public understanding of aviation.
“In such a dynamic industry, female journalists have been instrumental in driving change and drawing global attention to Nigeria’s aviation successes,” she said.
Mrs. Olapeju Olubi of FactsEchoes Online news described the award as “a testament that our efforts are not going unnoticed,” while Mrs. Kemi Awe of Autoglobe Media Services said the recognition would “inspire greater dedication and more innovative storytelling in aviation coverage.”
Another award recipient, Mrs. Itohan Abara-Laserian of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), emphasized the importance of collaboration between the media and the industry.
“Those who truly understand the media see us as agents of change, not adversaries,” she noted.
Mrs. Joy Ogbebor, CEO of MamaJ TV, added that recognition such as this strengthens journalists’ morale.
“When journalists are appreciated, it fuels more commitment and passion for excellence,” she said.
Other celebrated journalists included Mrs. Henrietta Oke of Swift News; Mrs. Chinelo Obogo of The Sun Newspapers; Mrs. Sade Williams of Travelport Online; and Mrs. Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha of BusinessDay, among others.
In addition to the media awards, WAI Nigeria also honoured key industry stakeholders for excellence in service.
Recipients included Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN; Director General of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo; Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku; and other institutional partners such as the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan and the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, Ibadan.
The event also featured cultural performances, exhibitions, and state chapter parades. Representing the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, his emissary commended WAI Nigeria for “empowering women and recognizing the unsung heroines of aviation.”
By celebrating the women shaping aviation narratives, WAI Nigeria emphasised its mission to advance gender inclusion and inspire the next generation of female professionals transforming the skies, and the stories told about them.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
