By Joyce Ekeh
The Women in Energy Network (WIEN), in partnership with KPMG, is set to introduce a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Benchmark for Nigeria’s energy sector, in a move aimed at measuring progress in gender inclusion and expanding opportunities for women across the industry.
The benchmark, scheduled for unveiling at the WIEN Gala and Awards 2026 in November, is expected to establish measurable standards for assessing diversity, equity and inclusion across the energy value chain.
The initiative comes amid growing attention to women’s representation in leadership, professional advancement and participation in Nigeria’s energy industry.
WIEN said the framework would provide a basis for assessing inclusion efforts and encouraging organisations across the sector to strengthen policies and practices that support women’s participation.
“The WIEN Gala & Awards 2026 will recognise outstanding individuals and organisations whose leadership, initiatives and commitment drive meaningful progress in gender inclusion, inclusive leadership and expanded opportunities for women across the energy value chain,” the organisation said.
The network said the awards would celebrate individuals and institutions whose initiatives contribute to a more inclusive energy industry.
WIEN highlights media’s role in gender equity
WIEN President, Mrs Eyono Fatai-Williams, emphasised the importance of the media in promoting public discussion on gender equity and raising awareness of the need for more inclusive practices across the energy sector.
“In recognition of the media’s valued partnership and its critical role in advancing conversations on gender equity in the energy sector, we are pleased to invite members of the media to a pre-event lunch and press briefing,” she said.
The briefing is scheduled for Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at The Shu Garden Chinese Restaurant, Ozumba Mbadiwe Street, beside Radisson Blu, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The event is expected to provide an opportunity for WIEN to engage media representatives on the forthcoming gala, the proposed benchmark and the organisation’s efforts to promote gender inclusion across the industry.
Focus on measurable inclusion
The planned benchmark places emphasis on measuring diversity, equity and inclusion rather than relying solely on general commitments to gender equality.
Across the energy value chain, such efforts can involve improving women’s access to technical and professional roles, strengthening leadership representation, expanding mentoring and career development opportunities, and promoting workplace policies that support equal participation.
The effectiveness of the new framework will depend on its assessment criteria, the availability of reliable data and the extent to which energy companies adopt its standards and act on the findings.
The WIEN Gala and Awards 2026 is expected to bring together industry stakeholders to recognise contributions to gender inclusion and encourage further action towards expanding opportunities for women in Nigeria’s energy sector.
