The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) has opened its 2025 International Conference in Ibadan with a strong call for innovation to revive Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.
During the press conference to mark the beginning of the International Conference which is holding in Ibadan, APWEN President, Engineer Adebisi Osim noted that innovation and collaboration can revive the nation’s struggling manufacturing sector.
She told delegates that the theme, “Revitalizing Nigeria’s Manufacturing Sector Through Innovative Engineering Solutions,” reflects the urgency to blend creativity with practical action.
Osim outlined a year packed with impact with over 1,000 girls and women benefitting from APWEN projects in 2025 highlighting the Mayen Adetiba Technical Boot Camp, where teenagers designed solar prototypes, and FunSTEM 2.0, which introduced students and teachers nationwide to robotics, coding, and renewable energy.
“We are building a pipeline of female innovators who will power Nigeria’s future,” she said, urging government to boost STEM funding and set a 30 per cent female quota for engineering projects.
APWEN President also disclosed plans of the Association to expand its programs next year with the addition of IoT and smart-grid modules to its bootcamps, creating an APWEN STEM Certification System, and launching a fund for women-led engineering start-ups.
Osim then called on young Nigerians to embrace engineering in order to transform Nigeria’s manufacturing.
“To young Nigerians, the future belongs to you. Don’t watch from the sidelines, build it. The power to transform Nigeria’s manufacturing lies in innovation and engineering excellence.”
The conference began with an awareness road walk and a lively president’s cocktail to welcome delegates while Tuesday will feature the opening ceremony, a high-level panel, and technical paper presentations, while later days will feature a health talk, young engineers’ breakout sessions, and a colorful cultural night.
Top speakers include Prof. Nasir Naeem AbdulSalam, Managing Director of Ajaokuta Steel Company, who will share strategies to revive the steel industry, and COREN President Engr. Prof. Sadiq Zubair Abubakar, who will address policy reforms to boost female participation in engineering.
