The initiative, launched in collaboration with the Association of Consulting Engineering in Nigeria (ACEN), aims to provide practical exposure and bridge the gap between classroom learning and the demands of real-world engineering consultancy.
More Than Mentorship
Speaking at the launch, APWEN Lagos Chapter Chairman, Atinuke Owolabi, explained that SECAP offers participants a unique opportunity to train with established consulting engineering firms, work on real-life projects, and gain industry immersion that positions them for long-term career success.
“We are proud to announce that 200 young female engineers have already registered for this programme,” she said. “That means we are not only mentoring but directly empowering 200 young women to enter and thrive in the consulting engineering workforce.”
She also pointed to APWEN’s recent success stories, noting that the Dangote Group recently employed over 20 young female engineers through its Graduate Trainee Programme. “This is a clear demonstration that APWEN Lagos is creating real and tangible career pathways for female engineers,” she added.
Collaboration with Industry Leaders
Owolabi expressed gratitude to the President of ACEN, Engr. Kam-Selem Bukar, for co-hosting the launch and delivering the keynote address. She described his leadership on gender inclusion in engineering as “transformative.”
Special recognition was also given to Funmi Kadri, FNSE, one of APWEN’s founding members and current Managing Director of ACEN, for her mentorship and support.
Mentorship as a Lifelong Impact
In her remarks, Engr. Funmilayo Kadri emphasised the importance of mentorship in shaping the careers of young professionals. She highlighted that engineering, while demanding, offers immense rewards when young engineers are guided and supported.
“To our young engineers, you’re stepping into a field that is dynamic, challenging, and incredibly rewarding,” she said. “The mentors you’ll meet here are not just here to advise you; they’re here to walk with you, encourage you, and sometimes challenge you to think bigger than you thought possible.”
Kadri also praised the mentors who volunteered their time, stressing that their investment would create ripple effects across the industry. “This is not just a programme,” she remarked. “It’s the beginning of a movement, a community of women in consulting engineering who lift each other up and open doors for those coming after them.”
Building a Pipeline of Women Engineers
The SECAP initiative is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s engineering workforce by building a steady pipeline of female professionals ready to take on leadership roles in consultancy. By offering structured guidance, exposure to industry projects, and strong professional networks, APWEN Lagos is positioning young women to thrive in a male-dominated sector.
The launch marks another milestone in APWEN’s mission to advance gender inclusion in engineering, reinforcing its reputation as a catalyst for change and a driver of professional opportunities for women.