Africa’s leading gender diversity advocacy group, the Women in Energy Network (WIEN), has commended ExxonMobil for promoting gender equity and creating an inclusive work environment across its Nigerian operations.

The organization also pledged to deepen collaboration with the energy giant and other industry players in advancing diversity, equity and inclusion across the sector.

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WIEN reaffirmed its commitment to partnering organizations that champion equal opportunities in the workplace, noting that ExxonMobil has continued to provide an enabling environment that supports the growth, development and advancement of women in the energy industry.

The commendation followed WIEN’s participation in a wellness session themed “Adaptability in Modern Times,” held in Ikoyi, Lagos. The program was organized by the Women’s Interest Network (WIN) in partnership with Brahma Kumaris Lagos and hosted by Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited (EEPNL), ExxonMobil’s deepwater affiliate in Nigeria.

According to WIEN, the event highlighted the importance of building resilient, adaptable and inclusive workplaces capable of attracting, retaining and developing top female talent within Nigeria’s energy sector.

The network pledged continued collaboration with ExxonMobil and other stakeholders to strengthen workplace cultures that are free from bias and provide equal opportunities for career progression and leadership development.

WIEN, which represents thousands of individual and corporate members across Nigeria’s energy value chain, has consistently championed policies that promote gender inclusion, workplace equity and fair access to professional opportunities for women. Its membership spans major international and indigenous energy companies, service providers and independent operators.

The WIEN delegation to the event was led by Ifeoma Ukabiala and Lola Oyenakan, alongside other accomplished female professionals from across the industry.

In her opening remarks, Ayodeji Adetunji said ExxonMobil remains committed to fostering a culture of diversity, inclusion, wellness and professional development.

According to her, employee-led networks play a critical role in advancing these objectives by providing mentorship opportunities, professional development platforms and avenues for community engagement.

“One of the ways we support this commitment is through employee-led networks that provide development opportunities, mentoring and community engagement. The Women’s Interest Network is a key example, established to advance the professional and personal growth of women across the company,” she said.

Adetunji noted that the wellness session forms part of the company’s broader commitment to personal wellbeing, resilience and professional growth within the energy community.

The event featured a presentation by Charlie Hogg, who shared practical insights on navigating change, building adaptability and maintaining wellbeing in an increasingly dynamic work environment.

Through interactive discussions and experience-sharing sessions, participants explored strategies for personal and professional success while strengthening networks among women professionals in the industry.

Also in attendance was Jagir Baxi, whose participation was described by WIEN as a demonstration of ExxonMobil’s commitment to empowering women and promoting inclusive leadership.

Speaking after the event, Oyenakan praised ExxonMobil for fostering an atmosphere of collaboration, purpose and shared ambition.

She said the program provided a valuable platform for learning, networking and relationship-building among women professionals, while reinforcing the importance of collective efforts in advancing excellence and leadership across Nigeria’s energy industry.

Participants also engaged in networking activities designed to build new professional connections, strengthen existing relationships and celebrate the role of women in driving innovation, growth and sustainable development within the sector.