The Association of Professional Women Engineers (APWEN), Lagos chapter, yesterday, urged the Federal Government to grant tax holidays for innovative engineers to enhance technological development in the country.
Chairman of the chapter, Atinuke Owolabi, made the call during an event to mark the World Creativity and Innovation Day with the theme: “Step Out and Innovate.”
She said: “Government’s consideration in making components and electronics tax-free for innovative engineers would significantly enhance technological progress, support local innovators, and elevate Nigeria as a leading hub for innovation globally.
“In a world marked by dynamic challenges and unprecedented opportunities, creativity and innovation stand as the driving forces behind progress and transformation. As women engineers, we recognise the critical role that innovation plays in shaping our societies and driving sustainable development.”
“On this occasion, we affirm our commitment to fostering a culture of creativity and innovation within our organisation and the broader engineering community,” she said.
Owolabi, who noted that if women step out of their comfort zones and embrace new ideas, technologies, and approach innovative solutions to the complex challenges facing the world today could be unlocked, further said: “This year’s theme serves as a call to action for women engineers everywhere to break barriers, challenge conventions, and pioneer groundbreaking solutions that will propel us towards a brighter and more sustainable future.”
She, however, disclosed that women engineers in Lagos, under the umbrella of APWEN, had taken a commendable stride by inaugurating an Artificial Intelligence club tailored for female engineering students and young engineers.
This proactive initiative, according to her, aims to inspire and equip them with cutting-edge technological insights, adding: “Additionally, we already have a 200-capacity hall to set up a resource, technology, and innovation hub to empower women and girls in engineering. This endeavourcatalyses encouraging aspiring female engineers to embrace innovation and stay abreast of emerging trends in the field. APWEN Lagos chapter stands united in our dedication to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and excellence in engineering.”
The association, therefore, encouraged all female engineers to unleash their creativity, explore new frontiers, and make their mark in the world.
