APM Terminals Apapa has launched a Female Mechanic Technical Skills Programme to empower women in its host communities as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility commitments.
The inauguration, held at the Lagos Port Complex, Apapa, brought together beneficiaries, community representatives, and industry stakeholders. Twenty young women, aged between 18 and 26, were selected after a competitive application process.
According to the organisers, the training will run for six months and cover forklift and crane maintenance, automobile mechanics, electrical works, and related skills, combining practical workshops with classroom-based learning. Participants also received protective gear and stipends to support them throughout the programme.
Terminal Manager Steen Knudsen said the initiative is designed to encourage more women to explore careers in technical and operational roles at the port, traditionally dominated by men. He noted that courage and resilience would be key for the trainees as they step into new territory.
Also speaking, Engineer Sandra Aguebor, founder of the Lady Mechanic Initiative, praised the effort, stressing that women have a critical role to play in today’s evolving industries. She described the programme as not only technical training but also an alternative pathway for young women to resist negative societal pressures.
Observers note that the scheme highlights how targeted technical training can empower women, diversify the workforce, and expand opportunities in Nigeria’s maritime and logistics sector.
