FIDA Nigeria Congratulates the Newly Appointed Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, heartily congratulates Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim on her recent appointment as the Federal Minister of Women Affairs. This appointment is a clear testament and acknowledgment of the huge strides achieved through dint of hard work, commitment and patriotism for the country. Her exemplary track record, commitment to justice and dedication to the empowerment of women and children in Nigeria make her a deserving choice for this esteemed position.
We are confident that under her capable leadership, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs shall be further galvanised to tackle heads-on, the myriad of challenges that women in Nigeria face which are not limited to troubling cases of sexual and gender based violence, gender discrimination, limited access to educational opportunities, forced and early marriages, insecurity, lack of economic assistance, and a host of other challenges. We believe that the Ministry shall continue to advocate for women’s rights, advance gender parity and push for inclusive policies that uplift Nigerian women and children.
FIDA Nigeria remains staunch in its commitment to supporting all these efforts and looks forward to working closely with the Honourable Minister to bolster our shared mission of ensuring that women and children across the nation have access to justice, empowerment opportunities and a safe, enabling environment in which they can thrive and live free from all forms of discrimination, violence and abuse.
We at FIDA Nigeria are positive that this tenure shall be impactful and filled with initiatives that will leave a lasting legacy for the advancement and empowerment of women and children in Nigeria.
Once again, Congratulations!
FOR: FIDA NIGERIA
Signed
Amina Suzanah Agbaje (Mrs.)
Country Vice/National President
FIDA Nigeria
Strengthening Community Leadership in Ekiti State!
In a significant Annual Dialogue, FIDA Nigeria brought together 40 esteemed members of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Leaders to develop strategies aimed at eradicating violence against women and girls. This dialogue represents a pivotal step in unifying voices and actions within communities to safeguard and empower women and girls across Nigeria.
Through robust partnerships, we are fostering a ripple effect of change that will contribute to a safer and more equitable future.
#FIDANigeria #EndViolence #EmpowerWomen #EkitiState #CommunityLeadership
FIDA Nigeria Hosts Bi-Annual Forum on Men Promoting Gender Justice in Lagos: Driving Change for Safer Communities
Last week, FIDA Nigeria brought together key stakeholders and community leaders for an impactful Shared Learning Forum dedicated to Men Promoting Gender Justice. This transformative event served as a vital platform for discussing effective strategies to mitigate gender-based violence (GBV) across local communities.
With the invaluable support of the Ford Foundation, participants delved into practical approaches to engage men as champions for gender justice, fostering safer and more inclusive environments.
Highlights of the Forum
- Mobilizing Community Resources: Collaborations were strengthened with local men’s associations, emphasizing community-driven solutions.
- Case Study on Mirel: A thought-provoking case study led to enriching discussions and dynamic presentations that underscored the importance of male involvement.
- Exploring Legislative Approaches: Participants examined local legislation and its role in mitigating GBV effectively.
- Developing Community By-Laws: Strategies for creating robust community by-laws were discussed, aiming to enhance local protection frameworks.
- Interactive Q&A Session: A lively Q&A segment fostered dialogue, encouraging deeper understanding among participants.
- Media Engagement: Press interviews and group photographs captured the event’s impact and raised public awareness.
This forum represents a meaningful step forward in empowering men to advocate for gender equality and play a proactive role in addressing GBV within their communities.
#FIDA #FordFoundationSupport #MenForJustice #EndGBV #CommunitySafety #GenderEquality #AdvocatingForChange #SharedLearning #FIDAInAction
FIDA Nigeria Hosts Annual Dialogue with Traditional Leaders on Preventing Violence Against Women and Girls in Lagos State
FIDA Nigeria, in collaboration with the Ford Foundation, recently organized its Annual Dialogue with the State Council of Traditional Leaders, focusing on the urgent need to prevent violence against women and girls in Nigeria. Held in Lagos State, the dialogue brought together key stakeholders to deliberate on strategies to curb gender-based violence (GBV) and protect the rights and dignity of women and girls in communities across the country.
The dialogue aimed to:
- Highlight the Role of Traditional Leaders: Recognizing traditional leaders as vital influencers in communities, the session emphasized their responsibility in spearheading efforts to combat GBV, challenge harmful practices, and foster a more equitable society.
- Share Community Success Stories: Participants shared practical examples and success stories from various communities, showcasing effective strategies that have contributed to GBV prevention and the empowerment of women and girls.
- Examine Harmful Cultural Practices: A critical reflection on long-standing cultural norms and practices that perpetuate violence against women and girls was undertaken. The dialogue explored how these practices can be reformed to protect vulnerable groups.
- Facilitate Group Discussions and Case Studies: The event included interactive group discussions and real-life case studies to drive home the importance of actionable change. These case studies demonstrated the profound impact that traditional leaders can have when they take a stand against GBV.
By fostering this engagement, FIDA Nigeria and the Ford Foundation aim to empower traditional leaders and their communities to play an active role in the fight against gender-based violence. This collaboration is crucial for creating safer environments for women and girls, ensuring that they are protected, respected, and given equal opportunities to thrive.
FIDA Nigeria remains committed to working with all relevant stakeholders to eradicate violence against women and girls and to ensure justice and fairness for all.
#FIDANigeria #EndGBV #FordFoundation #TraditionalLeadersForChange #CommunityLeadership #WomenEmpowerment #LagosState #Nigeria #ViolencePrevention
FIDA Ogun Celebrates International Day of the Girl 2024 with Empowering Visit to Anglican Girls Grammar School
In honor of the International Day of the Girl 2024, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Ogun State Branch, in partnership with the Teen Girls Enlightenment Initiative’s Girls in Science and Technology (GIST), visited Anglican Girls Grammar School (Private) in Ijebu Ode on October 11th, 2024.
The event featured an engaging panel discussion on key issues impacting the future of young girls, focusing on health, education, their rights, and the unique challenges they encounter. The students actively participated, asking thoughtful questions that were expertly addressed by the panel. Some students also received personalized counseling to further support their growth and well-being.
FIDA Ogun appreciates the school administration for facilitating this impactful session. We are confident that these discussions have inspired the girls to pursue their dreams and empowered them with the knowledge to navigate their future with confidence.
#IDG2024
#EmpoweringTheFuture
#FIDAOgun
FIDA Nigeria Sokoto Branch Marks International Day of the Girl Child with Sensitization at IDP Camp
In commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, the FIDA Nigeria Sokoto Branch organized a sensitization visit to an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Sokoto State. The initiative focused on raising awareness about the importance of girl child education, personal and oral hygiene, and the value of acquiring skills to prepare the girls for a brighter future.
Led by the Branch Chairperson, the team expressed deep concern over the sight of children, especially girls, wandering the streets late at night, highlighting the risks of gender-based violence. The Chairperson emphasized the urgent need to protect these vulnerable children and pledged to take actionable steps toward ensuring their enrollment in school to secure their future.
The event concluded with the distribution of clothing and essential items to the children and their parents or caregivers, reflecting FIDA’s commitment to supporting and uplifting the most vulnerable members of society.
FIDA Uyo Celebrates International Day of the Girl Child 2024
In celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Uyo Branch visited the students of Offot Ukwa Secondary School in Uyo Local Government Area on October 10th, 2024.
The event kicked off with a warm welcome from the school’s principal, Mrs. Julie Effiong. The NBAWF Akwa Ibom State Chapter Lead, Ofonime Etuknwa Esq, then addressed the students, aligning her speech with this year’s theme. Following her was Senior EseOghene Onwuezobe Esq, who provided an insightful overview of the VAPP Law, shedding light on the devastating effects of abuse.
Maria Akpan Esq continued the advocacy with a powerful session on the effects of rape and molestation, encouraging the students to speak out against these crimes. Arit Isangedighi-Udokang Esq wrapped up the event with a vibrant chant of the PANTS Rule, reinforcing protective measures for the students.
The session was skillfully moderated by the Immediate Past NBAWF State Lead, Sifon Sifon Esq, and supported by Mbereobong Isok Esq and Edidiong Ottong Esq, both in attendance to lend their voices to the cause.
This impactful outreach by FIDA Uyo highlights the organization’s commitment to educating and empowering young girls on their rights and safety.
Empowering the Next Generation: FIDA Epe Celebrates International Day of the Girl Child
FIDA Epe marked the International Day of the Girl Child with a special advocacy visit to Ethos Crest School, Ajah. The event, led by the Chairperson, Mrs. Olufunke Oduwole, was warmly received by the school’s proprietor, who expressed gratitude to FIDA for dedicating time to celebrate and empower the students.
In her address, Mrs. Oduwole introduced FIDA Epe’s delegation and shared insights about FIDA’s mission, vision, and the importance of commemorating this significant day. The Vice Chairperson, Sotonye Amachree, and Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu, engaged the students in an interactive session centered around this year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future.” The session sparked meaningful discussions, followed by a Q&A segment where the girls’ voices were heard.
As part of their commitment to education and empowerment, FIDA Epe presented notebooks and water bottles to all participants, along with two books for the school’s library, leaving a lasting impact on both the students and the school.
Day 2: Empowering Religious Leaders to Drive Solutions Against Gender-Based Violence in Jos, Plateau State
On the second day of the transformative dialogue, religious leaders gathered once again in Jos, Plateau State, to continue their crucial discussions on leveraging faith to combat gender-based violence (GBV). With a focus on advancing solutions, the leaders explored how to promote women into leadership roles within religious institutions and formulated practical strategies to prevent GBV in places of worship.
By the conclusion of the session, participants pledged to become advocates for these changes, committing to championing gender equality and combating GBV within their communities. This impactful dialogue is made possible through the generous support of the Ford Foundation.
EndGBV #FaithForChange #WomenInLeadership #FIDAForJustice #FIDAForWomenAndChildren
2024 FIDA NIGERIA, LAGOS BRANCH LAW WEEK: Women Lawyers Reiterate Commitment to the Group’s Ideals & Mandate
The Four Points by Sheraton on Victoria Island, Lagos was the venue for the opening ceremonies of the 2024 Annual Law Week of the Lagos Branch of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA Nigeria), which ran from Tuesday, October 8, to Friday, October 11, 2024.
The 4-day event, which brought together female wigs from various branches, practice areas and years of post-Call to Bar experience, was convened to discuss the theme, ‘ADVANCING GENDER EQUALITY AND ECONOMIC GROWTH THROUGH POLICY REFORMS’.
The opening ceremony started with the National Anthem, and the FIDA song.
In her address of welcome, the Chairperson of FIDA Nigeria, Lagos Branch, Mrs. Chinwe Efobi, reminded the assembled attendees that this year’s Law Week coincided with the 80th anniversary of the global community of FIDA and the 60th anniversary of FIDA in Nigeria- the body having been founded back in 1944 in Mexico and 1964 in Nigeria. FIDA (which is the Spanish acronym for the International Federation of Women Lawyers) is a non-governmental and not-for-profit global organization that advocates for women’s rights and gender equality around the world. It was established in 1944 and has chapters in various countries, and branches in all the states in Nigeria, all of which, Mrs. Efobi said, are working to promote justice, equality, and human rights for women. She went on to list FIDA’s objectives to include the following:
– Promoting women’s rights and gender equality;
– Supporting women’s access to justice and legal protection;
– Encouraging women’s participation in the legal profession and decision-making processes;
– Addressing gender-based violence and discrimination;
– Collaborating with other organizations to advance human rights and gender equality.
The Chairperson of the 2024 FIDA Lagos Law week, Mrs Blessing Omono Omaghomi also gave her welcome address. The Chairman of the opening ceremony, Mr.Theodore Jnr. Ezeobi, SAN also gave his opening remarks.
Apart from the opening ceremonies, the Law Week programme also consisted of two panel sessions, the first of which was coordinated by Anita Tuesday and moderated by Edirin Essiet , with Ejiro Gray, the Executive Director of the Sahara Group as the Keynote Speaker. Other members of the panel were Mrs. Abimbola Akeredolu, SAN, (a Partner at the law firm of Banwo & Ighodalo) and Fayo Williams (Managing Consultant at Simply Exponential Consults Ltd).
All the panelists spoke extensively on the need for the implementation of policies that would favour the womenfolk in Nigeria in line with the overall goals of FIDA.
The second panel session, which discussed the topic, ‘GENDER INCLUSIVE LABOUR MARKET REFORMS: CATALYSTS FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH ‘, was coordinated by Ngozi Arinze and moderated by Uju Othniel. Uju was joined by a distinguished panel consisting of the Hon.Justice O. A. Ipaye of the Lagos State High Court; former NBA Lagos Branch Chairman Chukwuka Ikwuazom, SAN, Elizabeth Idigbe, and a representative of Jean Chiazor Anishere , SAN, who was unable to attend.
At the end of each panel session, awards were presented to each of the panelists.
The second event in the 2024 FIDA Nigeria Lagos Branch Law Week programme was a hybrid event aimed at ensuring the maximum participation of members who could not be physically present at the event. The in-person aspect of the event was held on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at the FIDA Lagos Branch Secretariat in Yaba, Lagos.
As on the first day, the second day’s programme which started with an opening remarks by the FIDA Lagos Branch Chairperson, Mrs Chinwe Efobi also featured a panel session with the theme ‘ACHIEVING LEADERSHIP IN LEGAL PRACTICE: LEVERAGING A GROWTH MINDSET FOR WOMEN’S SUCCESS. The session, whose panel included Chinasa Unaegbunam SAN, Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya, Adejoke Layi-Babatunde, and Chinenye Oragwu, was moderated by Tochi Eze . Each of the panelists shared her unique insight on the true meaning of ‘GROWTH‘, and the need and benefits of cultivating a growth mindset. The session also featured a lovely question and answer segment, after which awards were presented to each speaker.
Day 3 of the FIDA Nigeria Lagos Branch Law Week 2024 featured a visit to the Modupe Cole Memorial Child Care and Treatment Home. Welcoming the FIDA delegation to the institution, the Principal, Mrs. Abosede Oyeniran gave them a brief introduction of the institution. The visitors were conducted around the institution, during which they interacted with a number of the students. At the end of the visit, the FIDA delegation made donations of food items to the institution, and photographs were taken.
The FIDA team also took a road walk from Modupe Cole to the Bariga Market , where they carried out a sensitization programme on the dangers of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), sexual abuse, domestic violence and other related sexual and gender based violence with other ills affecting women and girl-children in our society and the role of FIDA in trying to end the scourge. The Iya l’Oja of the Market, Princess Aderolakemi Awelew received the team on behalf of her members. During the sensitization session, flyers were distributed to the market women to drive home FIDA’s argument. The session ended with group photographs.
On Day 4 of the Law Week, FIDA Lagos Branch marked the International Day of the Girl Child, which was slated for October 11, 2024 with the theme ‘GIRLS VISION FOR THE FUTURE’. The commemoration featured advocacy visits to two Ikoyi-based schools, namely, The Holy Child College , and the Aunty Ayo International School.
The visit to the Holy Child College was graced by a large turnout of FIDA members – amongst them the visiting Mrs. Mojirayo Ogunlana-Nkanga (currently the Secretary of FIDA Nigeria (Abuja Branch). The programme was coordinated by Mrs. Nnenna Nwaokobia , while the Keynote Speakers were Dr. Kemi Ogunoiki and Mrs. Ohunene Scott-Ananaba.
In her welcome address, the FIDA Lagos Branch Chairperson, Mrs. Efobi reiterated the purpose of the visit, which was to educate the girls on their rights, and to keep them informed about ways to achieve success, both in their careers and their personal lives. FIDA’s visit, she added, was aimed at creating awareness and to enlighten the students on the role of FIDA.
In her keynote, Dr. Kemi Ogunoiki also spoke on the rights of the girl-child, citing the various extant laws protecting these rights.
Also speaking, Mrs. Ohunene Scott-Ananaba explored the topic “DARE TO BE DIFFERENT”. She encouraged the girls to be ambitious and resilient in their work.
The two keynote speeches were greeted with another lively Q&A session, after which the Affirmation was taken. The vote of thanks was given by a representative of the school as the event came to a close with the taking of group photographs.
The FIDANS proceeded afterwards to the Aunty Ayo International School.
There, the Keynote speakers were Mrs. Tochi Eze and Mrs. Clementina Ramsey-Osere . Both speakers reiterated the themes so well enunciated at the previous visit concerning the rights of the girl-child and the laws safeguarding them, as well as the need for every girl-child to recognize and take advantage of opportunities early in life, in order to achieve personal and professional success.
There was also a Q&A session led by Chinenye Oragwu, after which the Girls Affirmation was uttered. Flyers, FIDA Helplines and refreshments were distributed among the students, awards were presented to the Keynote Speakers, and photos were taken, as the event drew to a close.
The 2024 FIDA Nigeria Lagos Branch Law Week was concluded with a grand Dinner at the prestigious Radisson Blu Hotel on Victoria Island, Lagos, which also featured the presentation of awards against the backdrop of soulful music and a prevailing atmosphere of camaraderie among the attendees.
The Chairman of the Dinner night and awards was Andrew Malgwi, SAN.
It was the culmination of a fun-filled, exciting, successful and impactful Week.