Sarah Abiara, the first female locomotive driver, has been recognised with the 2026 Women in Logistics and Transport (WiLAT) Role Model Award.
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr Kayode Opeifa, has congratulated her on the honour.
Sarah Abiara received the honour at the 2026 WiLAT Nigeria Day Conference and Awards, the 14th edition, held at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos, in recognition of her pioneering role and contributions to railway operations in Nigeria.
Opeifa described the award as a significant recognition of Abiara’s professionalism, courage and determination in breaking into a field traditionally dominated by men.
He said her achievement represents a source of pride not only to the Nigerian Railway Corporation but also to women seeking careers in technical and operational areas of the transport industry.
Opeifa said:
“Mrs Abiara’s journey demonstrates what is possible when competence, determination and opportunity come together. Her recognition is well deserved and serves as an encouragement to other women and young people who aspire to build careers in railway operations.”
Abiara joined the NRC in 2013 and completed her locomotive driver training the following year, becoming the first woman in Nigeria to qualify and operate as a locomotive driver.
Since then, she has remained one of the notable examples of women making significant contributions to the country’s railway system.
Opeifa also commended WiLAT Nigeria and the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Nigeria for recognising professionals who have distinguished themselves in the transport and logistics industry.
He reaffirmed the NRC’s commitment to creating opportunities for qualified personnel irrespective of gender, while strengthening training, professionalism and capacity development across its operations.
The WiLAT conference, themed “Driving Results: Time Mastery in Logistics and Transport,” attracted transport professionals, government representatives and industry stakeholders who discussed productivity, discipline, innovation and improved service delivery in the sector.
Chairperson of WiLAT Nigeria, Pharm. Khadijat Sheidu-Shabi, said the organisation would continue to promote mentorship, professional development and increased participation of women in leadership and technical positions within the logistics and transport industry.
The NRC management said Abiara’s latest recognition reinforces the growing role of women in Nigeria’s railway sector and highlights the importance of providing opportunities for more women to take up operational and technical careers.
