Jennifer Adighije, managing director and chief executive officer of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company, has reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to empowering women and men to reach their full potential.

Ms Adighije said this in a statement on Thursday to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day.

Addressing staff and guests, she said the company had deliberately cultivated a culture of inclusiveness, collaboration and mutual support among employees, regardless of gender.

Ms Adighije also noted she made history as the first woman to lead the company since its establishment in 2005.

She said that, despite being the only female member of the executive management team, she had received strong support from colleagues across the organisation.

Ms Adighije stressed that women remain central to economic and social transformation, noting that empowering women benefits families, communities and entire nations.

She urged organisations and policymakers to intensify efforts to promote gender equality in the workplace and in leadership positions.

According to her, such initiatives remain essential to achieving sustainable development.

Reflecting on the celebration’s theme, Adighije emphasised the importance of sacrifice, service and collaboration in building stronger institutions.

She explained that the philosophy of ‘give to gain’ highlights that meaningful rewards often follow meaningful contributions.

She also encouraged employees to build stronger professional relationships and support one another in pursuit of personal growth and organisational success.

Veteran broadcast journalist Eugenia Abu urged female employees to break free from self-imposed limitations and strive for excellence in their careers.

She encouraged women to build confidence, pursue leadership opportunities and remain active contributors to organisational growth.

Also speaking, the company’s executive director of corporate services, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, acknowledged the pivotal role women have played in the organisation’s recent progress.

He noted that the company had recorded notable improvements under Ms Adighije’s leadership.

Mr Ogbeide-Ihama urged female employees to continue demonstrating professionalism and dedication in their work.

Other executives, including Executive Director of Generation Abdullahi Kassim and Executive Director of Legal Services Steven Andzenge, also commended female staff for their contributions.

They described women as vital to the company’s growth and operational success.

The NDPHC was established by the federal government in 2005 under the National Integrated Power Project.

The company operates several power plants and transmission projects across Nigeria.

It remains a key player in efforts to strengthen electricity generation and infrastructure in Nigeria’s power sector.

(NAN)