WiLAT Nigeria Holds 13th Annual Day, Focuses On AI’s Role Empowerment For Women in Logistics

By Roland Ekama

Determined to be competitive and proficient in the working environment,  Women in Logistics and Transport (WiLAT) Nigeria convened its 13th annual day event with a resounding call for greater female empowerment through Artificial intelligence (AI) in the logistics and transport sub sectors of the nation’s economy.

The event, held on Thursday, July 31 2025 at the Oriental Hotel , Lagos, themed “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Women’s Empowerment for Effective Business in Logistics and Transport,” drew industry leaders, government officials, corporate sponsors, and advocates from home and abroad.

The gathering spotlighted WiLAT’s commitment to mentorship and role modeling, calling on pioneering women in the sector to mentor and empower forthcoming generations.

While delivering her welcome address, Chairperson Pharm. Khadijat Sheidu-Shabi (FPSN, FNIS, CMILT) highlighted WiLAT’s rapid growth from its Nigerian roots to a presence in 40 countries.

Sheidu-Shabi noted that :“We are at a significant turning point in our sector, powered by technology, collaboration, and the rise of women,” Sheidu-Shabi said, urging the audience to seize the moment for advancing gender inclusion through digital innovation.

 

“This conference is more than a meeting of women; it’s a movement and a celebration of leadership, collaboration, and transformation,” Sheidu-Shabi said, encouraging participants to engage, learn, and build partnerships to shape the future of logistics and transport in Nigeria and beyond.”,She stressed .

Also speaking, in his goodwill message, International Vice President and Chairman Africa Forum, Alhaji Ibrahim Jibril tasked women to embrace AI for job proficiency.

Jibril noted commended WILAT for the rapid growth and membership strength in reshaping the transport and logistics supply chain.

Similarly, National President of Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Nigeria , Mrs Mfom Usoro reiterated that younger women has the capability to explore AI in their working environment but urged the senior colleagues to also embrace the current trends .

 

The event further recognized contributors including the Nigerian Ports Authority, Nigerian Railway Corporation, Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, ENL Consortium, SIFAX Group, and other key sponsors for their continuous support.

Among the dignitaries welcomed were Chief Teete Owusu Norte, International President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT); Alhaji Jubril Ibrahim, International Vice President CILT and Chairman of the African Forum; Barr. (Mrs) Mfon Ekong Usoro, Nigeria’s National President of CILT and its first female leader; WiLAT Founder Hajia Aisha Ali-Ibrahim; and Dr. (Mrs) Doreen Owusu-Fianko, WiLAT Global Deputy Chairperson, alongside other esteemed trustees, partners, and role models.

A special tribute was paid to Olori Vicky Hastrup, a WiLAT trustee and recently crowned Queen of Obokun, honoring her as “a symbol of what it means to wear many crowns—professionally, personally, and now traditionally.”

WiLAT also celebrated Dr. (Mrs) Ogochukwu Ugboma, the first female Dean of the Faculty of Transport and Logistics at Lagos State University and WiLAT Global Vice Chairperson for North & West Africa, saluting her achievements as an inspiration to women across disciplines.

 

Highpoints of the event was three paper presentations from experts in the sub sector.

The paper presentation were delivered by : Chief Mrs Jean Chiazor Anishere, (SAN) who spoke on the topic” The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Women Empowerment For Effective Business Logistics and Transport Operations”.

Associate Professor of Logistics and Transport, Department of Urban and Regional Planning, University of Lagos ,Dr. Olayinka Agunloye , who spoke on the topic “Lessons for Women’s Empowerment .

While Former Commander Nigeria Army Medical Corps, Major General Tilewa Amusu (rtd) spoke on the topic “Wellness Wears No Labels: Promoting Mental Well Being “.

The event concluded with gratitude to all attendees and sponsors, setting a tone of optimism and forward-looking collaboration for women and the sector at large.