The Deputy Chief Executive Officer, in charge of Finance and Administration at the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC), Halimatu Sadia Abdulai Abu, has called for greater recognition, trust and support for women in leadership, particularly in the corporate world.
She made these remarks at the Africa Public Sector Conference & Awards (APSCA), where she joined other industry leaders to discuss the challenges women face in leadership and the need for more inclusive workplaces.
Speaking from her professional experience, Madam Halimatu Sadia highlighted the limited representation of women in corporate decision-making. She noted that many high-level meetings still have only one or no women at the table, pointing to the barriers that continue to limit women’s participation in leadership.
She stressed that women have the ability and competence to excel when allowed to lead. “Every woman has something within us,” she said, emphasising the value women bring to their respective fields.
She further noted that appointing a woman to a leadership position should come with the confidence and support needed for her to carry out her responsibilities effectively. “Once a woman has been given a mandate, it means she’s capable,” she stated, adding that women should not be undermined because of their gender.
At PHDC, Madam Halimatu Sadia also places importance on supporting women in their professional development. Through an open-door approach, she encourages female staff to seek guidance, share their concerns and access mentorship as they progress in their careers.
