…..Celebrates 2025 International Women’s Day
In commemoration of 2025 International Women’s Day, stakeholders under the auspices of Women in Out-of Home Advertising in Nigeria (WOHAN) organized a dinner to commemorate the day.
The event tagged: WOHAN hangout 1.0, held at Radisson Blu in Ikeja at the weekend, according to the organisers, was also to accelerate action towards the growth, empowerment, and recognition of women in Out-of-Home Advertising business in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, a member of Board of Trustees, Out-of-Home Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN) and keynote speaker at the event. Mrs. Fadekemi Alonge spoke on values adhere to been relevant in the OOH business and how members of WOHAN can be more relevant in a male dominated industry.
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She urged members to hold on to values they hold dear, have integrity; be trustworthy; hard working ; humble; be open to suggestions and be current to happenings around them.
“I beseech you not to be satisfy with mediocrity; own up and take responsibility and most importantly etiquette and mannerism at work place and in dealing with clients.
The coordinator of WOHAN, Mrs. Adeola Odesanya in her speech explained that in line with this year’s IWD theme: Accelerate Action, WOHAN aims at strengthening commitment and a call to action.
“It is a reminder that our progress as women in Out-of-Home Advertising must be deliberate, consistent, and unwavering. We must take bold steps toward breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and positioning ourselves as key players in the industry.
“WOHAN has come a long way since its inception, but there is still much to achieve. As we look forward to the future, we must commit to intensifying our efforts in advocacy, mentorship, and capacity-building for women in this field,” she added.
Disclosing WOHAN long-term strategic goals, Mrs. Odesanya said the organisation’s major initiatives for 2025 is to visit schools and introduce young ladies to the world of Out-of-Home Advertising business.
This initiative according to her aims to inspire the next generation of women to consider careers in OOH Advertising, ensuring continuity, diversity, and innovation in our industry. Through career talks, mentorship programs, and hands-on exposure, we will equip young women with the knowledge and motivation to explore and thrive in this field.
Urging members to actively support this initiative, whether by volunteering, sponsoring, or mentoring the young girls who will benefit from this programme, Mrs. Odesanya explained that the girl child mentorship programme for students in girls only secondary schools and higher institutions is aimed at career guidance; networking opportunities; role modeling and talent development.
She added that by achieving these goals, WOHAN aims to create a pipeline of talented, confident, and empowered young women who can make a positive impact in the out-of-home advertising sector.
The Coordinator further said that for WOHAN’s second anniversary which is in few months, it will be to reflect on how far they have come and the need to institutionalize efforts. “To do this effectively, we must establish structures that ensure the continuity and smooth operation of our activities,” she said.
She also urged all members to embrace this commitment whole heartedly, as it is a critical step toward solidifying WOHAN’s legacy.
“As our slogan is ‘Stronger Together, let us dine, network, and celebrate tonight, let us remember that our strength lies in unity. We are not just women in OOH Advertising; we are change makers, leaders, and trailblazers, and we are stronger when we are together in unity.
“Let us take tonight’s conversations beyond this room and into action. Let us support one another, mentor the younger generation, and break every barrier standing in our way. Together, we can truly accelerate action and shape the future of Out-of-Home Advertising in Nigeria.”
She added that by providing mentorship and support networks, WOHAN has become a vital resource for women in out-of-home advertising in Nigeria, helping them overcome challenges, achieve success, and thrive in their careers.
Advising upcoming females in Out-of-Home Advertising, especially new business owners, on how they can set themselves up for success, build resilient businesses, and make a lasting impact in the industry, Odesanya urged them to build a strong network; develop transferable skills; stay updated on industry trends; define their niche; develop a solid business plan; foster a creative culture and collaborate with others.
At the fun filled event, members from different organisations of the Out of Home Advertising industry discussed strategies to uphold the OOH industry and foster unity.
The women used the opportunity to network, dance, play games and were treated to varieties of food at the event.
WOHAN is the women arm of the Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria, (OAAN), with vision to empower women in Out of Home Advertising by creating an inclusive environment that recognizes and amplifies their talents, expertise leading to a more diverse and equitable industry.
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