by FIDAFIDA 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.
by FIDAFIDA 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.
by FIDAEmpowering 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.
by FIDADay 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
by FIDA2024 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.
by FIDATransformative Dialogue with Religious Leaders to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls in Plateau State
Today, FIDA Nigeria, with the invaluable support of the Ford Foundation, convened a transformative dialogue with religious leaders in Plateau State, focused on preventing violence against women and girls. This pioneering event underscores the power of faith in challenging harmful norms and inspiring sustainable change within communities.
Event Highlights:
🔹 Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV): Religious leaders engaged in discussions about the widespread issue of GBV in their communities, sharing insights and exploring faith-based approaches to address and combat violence.
🔹 Faith and Reflection: Participants reflected on the teachings of the Holy Bible and Quran, emphasizing how these religious doctrines call for the protection and dignity of women and girls. The discussions centered on how religious leaders can harness these teachings to foster peace and prevent violence.
🔹 Strategic Action Planning: The dialogue led to the development of actionable solutions aimed at breaking cultural barriers that perpetuate violence, with the ultimate goal of fostering gender equality and justice.
This milestone event represents a significant step towards building safer, more inclusive communities where the rights and dignity of women and girls are upheld.
FIDA #EndGBV #ReligiousLeadersTakeAction #FaithForChange #FordFoundation #GenderJustice #EqualityNow
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Press Release on the International Day of the Girl-Child 2024Theme: “Girls’ Vision for the Future”
As we celebrate the International Day of the Girl-Child observed annually on the 11th of October, FIDA Nigeria stands resolute and in solidarity with every girl whose dream and aspiration remains a beacon of hope for a brighter tomorrow. Today, we do not only celebrate girls—we amplify their voices, highlight their struggles and call for urgent and proactive action to ensure that their vision for the future become a reality.
Across Nigeria, millions of girls are born into a world filled with challenges that are beyond their making. From the plains of the northeast, where continued conflict and displacement shatter the innocence of childhood, to the rural communities where girls are still denied access to basic education, the story of the Nigerian girl-child is often one of untold hardship and deprivation.
A story of daily struggle from dawn, not to prepare for school, but inundated with household chores and in most cases enduring the endless and cruel reality of child labor and gender inequalities. She dreams of a future where she can learn, grow and thrive, yet that dream is clouded by the weight of systemic barriers and discrimination, early and forced marriages, gender-based violence, harmful traditional and cultural practices that rob her of her childhood and future.
In the face of all these adversities, the Nigerian girl-child tenaciously remains a symbol of resilience and courage, daring to dream despite the odds, constantly envisioning a world where she is empowered, her rights protected, her voice heard and her potentials nurtured. However, this vision cannot be realized alone. The girl-child needs allies—people, institutions, and government that will not only listen but take decisive actions and steps to dismantle the structures that perpetuate gender inequality and gross discrimination.
The theme for the year 2024 resonates deeply within our nation. Insecurity, poverty, climate change, illiteracy, cultural and religious limitations and the degradation of progress made in gender parity, have further exacerbated the plight of girls in Nigeria. Nevertheless we make bold to say that the Nigerian girl-child is not a victim waiting to be saved, she is a leader waiting to be heard, standing tall at the frontline of change, challenging oppressive norms and pushing boundaries, yet she cannot win this fight alone.
FIDA Nigeria recognizing the immense potential of girls to reshape our society is deeply committed to creating spaces where their voices are not only heard but acted upon. We shall continue to work tirelessly to provide support, legal protection, and advocacy for the right to education and the overall wellbeing of the girl-child, ensuring that every Nigerian girl has the tools, resources and opportunities to shape her future.
As we reflect on this year’s theme, we call on Government, Civil Society Organizations, Public and Private sectors and indeed all stakeholders and well-meaning Nigerians to invest in proven solutions that address the challenges which girls face. We must focus on and prioritize security, education, health care, and wholesome protection from violence and exploitation. When girls lead, they uplift families, transform communities, and strengthen the nation.
Let us not only dream with our girls but invest heavily into these dreams. The future of Nigeria is in their hands and by empowering them today, we are securing a brighter tomorrow for all.
It is time to rise for the girl-child, walk the talk, guarantee her participation in leadership through education, thereby accelerating progress for a brighter tomorrow where her dreams become reality.
Together we certainly can!
Signed
For: FIDA Nigeria
Amina Suzanah Agbaje, (Mrs.)
Country Vice President/National President
FIDA Nigeria
internationaldayofthegirlchild2024 #girlsvisionforthefuture #proactiveaction #walkthetalk #togetherwecan #FIDANigeria
by FIDAOndo FIDA Applauds Governor Aiyedatiwa for Championing Women’s Development
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) in Ondo State has commended the State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his unwavering support of women’s career growth through gender-friendly policies and programs. FIDA Ondo praised the Governor for fostering a conducive environment that empowers women to excel, noting that the newly sworn-in female judges bring a wealth of experience that will enhance the administration of justice in Ondo State.
In a statement issued yesterday in Akure, FIDA Ondo Chairperson, Barr. Catherine Ogunjebi, congratulated the newly appointed judges, particularly those who are members of FIDA, for their well-deserved elevation to the Bench. She described the appointment of three female judges in succession as a significant milestone, reflecting the Governor’s commitment to inclusive governance.
Barr. Ogunjebi also expressed joy for the women of Ondo State, noting that Governor Aiyedatiwa has introduced numerous life-changing programs specifically designed to uplift women, setting a new precedent in the state’s leadership.
by FIDATiti’s Silent Cry: The Hidden Torment of Cyberbullying
Titi had always been the bright star in her team. She worked tirelessly, pushing boundaries and impressing her colleagues. But when her office shifted to remote work, everything changed—drastically and painfully.
It started with what seemed like innocent jokes in the team chat. Little jabs about her presentations, sarcastic comments about her ideas. But then, the anonymous messages began—cruel words about her looks, vicious attacks on her competence, and even mockery of her personal life. Each ping on her phone sent her heart racing. Every email left her feeling more humiliated, more broken.
(Why her?)
Titi had no one to turn to. She was drowning in isolation, suffocating in silence. Her confidence, once so strong, was shattered piece by piece. Every day, she logged in, hoping the abuse would stop, but it never did. It only got worse.
With a trembling voice and a heavy heart, Titi finally reached out to FIDA Nigeria. She shared her pain, hoping for just one person to understand. FIDA did not only listen—they stood by her. They offered her support, helped her find her voice, and made sure she no longer felt alone in her battle.
But this isn’t just Titi’s story. It’s the story of thousands of vulnerable people out there, facing the same cruelty, the same cyberbullying, day after day. Cyberbullying is not just harmful—it is a crime, punishable under Section 24 of the Cybercrime Act 2015, which criminalizes online harassment, threats, and abusive communications.
Did you know? 43% of Nigerian employees have faced cyberbullying at work. It doesn’t just hurt—it destroys lives, dreams, and futures.
At FIDA Nigeria, we are committed to ending the scourge of cyberbullying. For Titi. For countless victims. Every voice deserves to be heard. Do not be silent. Report every case of cyberbullying. #EndCyberbullying
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Extends Heartfelt Commiseration to Borno State Flood Victims
FIDA Nigeria is deeply saddened by the recent flood that has devastated parts of Borno State. Our hearts go out to all those who have been affected, particularly the families who have lost their homes and businesses.
As an organization committed to the protection and advocacy for the rights of women and children, we are especially concerned about the additional challenges faced by the most vulnerable during this crisis. The impact of the flood has been severe, and we stand in solidarity with those enduring these trying times.
We are currently working to understand the extent of the damage and to offer support where it is most needed. Our mission remains focused on providing aid and ensuring that the needs of the vulnerable are addressed, in line with our core values and mandate.
We encourage everyone to support those in need through community efforts and by offering any form of assistance you can provide. Every small action helps in rebuilding lives and restoring hope.
Stay connected with us for updates on our response and ways to get involved. Your support and compassion during this difficult period are greatly appreciated.
With sincere sympathy,