By Palma Ileye
Women in Mining Africa, WiM-Africa has announced the appointment of Distinguished Senator Uche Lilian Ekwunife (IYOM) to its Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2025.
With over 25 years of impactful leadership and dedication to philanthropy within Nigeria, Sen Uche brings a wealth of experience to her new role, reinforcing WiM-Africa’s mission to empower women in the mining sector and drive positive change across Africa.
WiM-Africa is a leading organization dedicated to empowering women artisanal miners across Africa and advocating for gender equality, inclusive practices, and the sustainable development of mining host communities.
The organization’s focus areas include capacity building for women in mining, removing children from hazardous mines, and promoting initiatives that support gender equality and responsible mining practices.
Through programs and projects in partnership with stakeholders across the continent, WiM-Africa works to transform the industry and uplift communities affected by mining activities.
In her capacity as a board member, Sen Uche will lend her expertise to WiM-Africa’s strategic initiatives, guiding policies and advocating for change that benefits women and vulnerable communities within the mining industry.
Her involvement is expected to be instrumental in building stronger partnerships locally and globally, driving initiatives that promote ethical mining and advancing socio-economic empowerment in mining host communities.
Commenting on her appointment, Sen Uche shared, “I am honored to join the Board of WiM-Africa and to work alongside a team dedicated to creating positive change. I look forward to contributing to initiatives that empower women in mining and strengthen communities across the continent, advancing sustainable and responsible mining practices.”
Also, Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, Executive Director of WiM-Africa, added, “We are thrilled to welcome Sen Uche to our Board of Directors. Her track record of leadership, deep-rooted commitment to social change, and extensive experience make her a valuable addition to our team as we continue our work to build an inclusive, ethical, and sustainable mining sector throughout Africa.”
Sen Uche’s appointment marks an important step in advancing WiM-Africa’s commitment to creating pathways for women, protecting children, and uplifting mining host communities across Africa.
Profile: Distinguished Senator Uche Lilian Ekwunife (IYOM) is a respected Nigerian legislator and advocate for sustainable development, recognized for her transformative role as Chair of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology in the 9th Assembly and previously as Chair of the House Committee on Environment.
Through her leadership in science and technology, she secured first-line funding for the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, NASENI, driving innovation and economic progress.
Her tenure as Chair of the House Committee on Environment deepened her commitment to addressing critical environmental concerns, including ecosystem preservation and sustainable practices in Nigeria’s resource sectors.
Senator Uche Lilian Ekwunife (IYOM) made history as the first woman and the first Southeast senator to chair the Senate Committee on Petroleum Downstream, a significant role in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. Her leadership in this position underscores her commitment to equitable representation and effective oversight in a crucial industry that drives much of Nigeria’s economy.
As Chair, Ekwunife has championed transparency, regulatory reforms, and policies to improve efficiency, ensuring that downstream petroleum operations benefit local communities and enhance national energy security.
Her groundbreaking role demonstrates her dedication to advancing both regional and national interests in the energy sector, paving the way for women and underrepresented groups in high-impact leadership positions.
Senator Uche Lilian Ekwunife (IYOM) has been recognized with the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON, for her outstanding contributions to public service and national development. Ekwunife’s achievements in the Senate underscore her dedication to broad-based development, especially in small business protection, infrastructure, education, and health.
Her legislative portfolio includes bills such as the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission Act, which strengthens MSMEs, and initiatives like the Made-in-Nigeria Goods Procurement Bill and the National Commission for Ecological Problems—bills that support local production and environmental reform.
Additionally, her philanthropic work has uplifted thousands, providing scholarships, housing, and job placements to underprivileged communities.
Senator Ekwunife’s expertise in science, technology, and environmental stewardship aligns powerfully with the objectives of Women in Mining Africa, WiM-Africa.
Her background uniquely positions her to champion critical issues within mining host communities, focusing on sustainable development, local innovation, and ecological integrity.
Ekwunife’s experience in environmental policy can drive actionable strategies for WiM-Africa, fostering safer, more equitable, and environmentally responsible practices in Africa’s mining communities.