Gender Inequality in Nigeria is a major problem, and many women are disadvantaged in terms of access to education, employment, wages and justice. Therefore, most industrial sectors are male-dominated, with only a few women rising to the top.

However, many influential women in high-rise positions in male-dominated industries prove that women can get ahead in Nigeria. Former Oil Minister Diezani-Alison Madueke is a well-known woman who has broken the glass ceiling in the Oil and Gas sector.

Her journey into greatness started with her career in Shell, a foremost multinational oil company. Alison Madueke became the first-ever female Executive Director in 2006. From here, she moved to gain more breakthroughs in the public sector while working in the Nigerian Government. With these tips, you can emulate Alison Madueke’s example and get ahead in your workplace.

1. Take Firm Decisions
Women need to be confident and affirmative. You shouldn’t be scared to speak and voice your opinions about issues. During Alison Madueke’s role as Petroleum Minister, she made firm policies despite backlash from the opposition. She has also been popularly known as “a tough nut to crack.”

2. Build a Network of Women
If you plan to advance in your career, you should have a strong support system. It would help if you surrounded yourself with other women leaders supporting your dreams and from whom you can learn. This will help you get ahead, and you can pass through obstacles with your firm support group.

As Alison Madueke shares, “Women are in competition with each other. This is highly unfortunate. Leadership is not about being liked. It is about making tough decisions for the betterment of the whole, and as women rise, they should learn to begin to network among themselves. Creating clusters where other women support each other.”

3. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
If you want to be a strong women’s leader, you can’t play safe. You must recognize opportunities that will aid advancement in your career and promote yourself. It is important to look past gender roles and keep challenging yourself to do better.

“Don’t wait for your ship to sail into the harbour. Swim out to it and climb onboard. Learn to recognize opportunities when they present themselves. They may turn out to be the most critical opportunities and game-changers in your entire life.”

Ultimately, with these three basic strategies, you can be a successful women’s leader and break the glass ceiling in male-dominated industries.