by FIDAFIDA Abuja Celebrates International Women’s Day 2024 with Empowerment Outreach in Ijayapi, Kubwa
March 8th, 2024, marked a significant moment as FIDA Abuja, led by its Chairperson, EXCO, and dedicated members, embarked on a meaningful journey to the community of Ijayapi, Kubwa, Abuja, in honor of International Women’s Day.
Our visit aimed to celebrate the global event’s essence, emphasizing women’s pivotal roles and contributions worldwide. Our Chairperson passionately articulated the importance of women’s rights to education, financial independence, and economic empowerment, aligning with the provisions of the VAPP Act 2015. Furthermore, we underscored the imperative of eradicating all forms of gender-based violence and empowering women to embrace their significance in society.
We were privileged to host Joyce Oduah, the former General Secretary of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), whose presence added inspiration as she encouraged women to realize their full potential while fostering supportive relationships with men.
The impact of our program was palpable as community members expressed their excitement, many of whom were introduced to FIDA for the first time. A notable moment came when one community member, acknowledging past misconduct, vowed to change his behavior regarding domestic violence.
The event was graced by esteemed community leaders, including Chief HRH. Danjuma Daudu, Prince Ali I. Danjuma, and Community Youth Leader Saleh Abubakar.
As a gesture of support, our Chairperson presented the community with 4 bags of rice, copies of the VAPP Act 2015, and FIDA flyers, symbolizing our commitment to empower and uplift women.
In a heartfelt expression of gratitude, Chief HRH. Danjuma Daudu acknowledged FIDA’s presence, emphasizing the importance of such outreach efforts, especially for communities unaware of FIDA and the significance of International Women’s Day.
Our outreach in Ijayapi, Kubwa, epitomizes FIDA Abuja’s dedication to advancing women’s rights and empowerment, reflecting our ongoing commitment to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
by FIDAFIDA Ondo Leads Inspiring Inclusion Campaign on International Women’s Day 2024
On March 8th, 2024, FIDA Ondo joined hands with its partners and collaborators to commemorate International Women’s Day 2024 under the theme “Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress.”
Represented by Chairperson Catherine Ogunjebi, FIDA Ondo embraced the theme “Inspire Inclusion” at the Police Officers Wives Association (POWA) event held at the Police Officers Mess in Akure. Ogunjebi emphasized the importance of women supporting each other to foster inclusion in leadership roles and empower future generations.
The event saw a remarkable turnout, graced by top officials of the Police Force in Ondo State, including the State Commissioner of Police, Women DPOs, their male counterparts, and members of POWA and NAWOJ.
Earlier in the day, Chairperson Catherine Ogunjebi featured on Adaba 88.9fm, discussing FIDA’s efforts, alongside other NGOs and CSOs, in ensuring women’s active participation in decision-making processes and governance levels.
Similarly, FIDA Ondo, represented by FIDAN Funmilayo Olagunju, engaged with the Society of Women Accountants (Akure Chapter) of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria to celebrate IWD 2024 at ICAN House Alagbaka Akure. The event attracted aspiring students, female professionals from diverse fields, and government officials.
FIDA Ondo’s engagements emphasized the pivotal role of women in fostering an inclusive and safe environment. Participants were sensitized on harmful practices endured by women, with discussions highlighting legal positions against oppressive traditions, female genital mutilation, discrimination, women’s inheritance rights, and property ownership.
Vulnerable women and children affected by gender-based violence were encouraged to seek legal aid and intervention from FIDA Ondo, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to championing women’s rights and empowerment.
by FIDAEmpowering Young Female Lawyers: FIDA Rivers’ Dynamic Mentorship Workshop Shines on International Women’s Day 2024
Celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8th, 2024, was truly special with a one-day mentorship training organized by FIDA Nigeria Rivers State Branch, in collaboration with the Hygreb Mentorship Project and the Young Lawyers Forum of the Nigeria Bar Association, Port Harcourt Branch.
Honored by the presence of esteemed past chairpersons, judges, and the executive members of NBA Port Harcourt branch, the event was a beacon of support for young female lawyers with 0-7 years of experience.
Kicking off with an inspiring opening remark by the convener of the Hygreb Mentorship Project, Hon. Justice Elsie N. Thompson, we delved into insightful sessions led by distinguished speakers. From Hon. Inime Aguma’s discourse on social welfare to Hon. Justice Margaret Opara’s invaluable insights on professionalism at the Bar, every moment was enriching.
A captivating panel discussion on mentorship featured luminaries from various legal realms, each sharing their expertise passionately. Moderated by the adept Irene Iniobong Pepple, it was a deep dive into the nuances of legal practice, from litigation to corporate law, and the delicate art of balancing life and career.
The interactive Q&A session that followed was enlightening, fostering engaging conversations between mentors and participants. We wrapped up with a heartfelt vote of thanks from the Chairperson of FIDA Rivers IWD Committee, Ms. Felicia NWoke, expressing gratitude for the enriching experience.
A huge thank you to all who made this event possible and to our participants for their enthusiastic involvement. Here’s to empowering the next generation of female legal luminaries!
#WomenInLaw #MentorshipMatters #IWD2024
by FIDAFIDA NIGERIA COMMEMORATES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2024
The International Women’s Day which is celebrated annually on the 8th of March has historically been a day set apart to celebrate women globally and their achievements. As the world marks this year’s International Women’s Day 2024 with the theme “Invest in women: Accelerate progress,” heightening the call for intentional investment in women and girls in all spheres covering health, their well-being and empowerment, FIDA Nigeria shines a spotlight on the sad reality of women’s continued marginalization and exclusion.
In spite of the campaign theme for the 2024 International Women’s Day being “Inspire Inclusion,” FIDA Nigeria is deeply disheartened by the non-inclusion and discrimination of women in critical spheres. This exclusion is not only a setback; it is a stain on the fabric of our collective conscience, hindering progress and perpetuating systemic injustice.
In Nigeria with the spate of violent extremism and acts of terrorism further escalating humanitarian crises in emergency context, women and children are highly vulnerable and exposed, suffering the brunt of the crises. This is because in every conflict setting, gender-based violence increases while insecurity is exacerbated and this sorry state of affairs compounds the existing inequalities that women already face on a daily basis.
It is premised on the above and in commemoration of this globally important day that FIDA Nigeria highlights the urgent need for collective action to drive gender parity and address the following areas as spotlighted by the United Nations where women are grossly neglected and largely overlooked
Investment in women as a human rights issue: Women’s rights are human rights, yet women are consistently denied access to essential resources, opportunities, and decision-making spaces. This systemic neglect robs women of their dignity and perpetuates a cycle of inequality and injustice.
Prioritize education for women: Females are hugely disenfranchised with respect to educational opportunities and access to same by barriers such as early or forced marriages, poverty, gender-based violence, cultural norms, amongst several other factors thereby contributing to the huge gender gap in education.
End poverty: Women, especially those from marginalized communities, bear the brunt of poverty’s harsh realities. The lack of economic empowerment and access to basic necessities relegates countless women to lives of desperation and destitution.
Implement gender-responsive financing and budgeting: Financial systems are rife with gender biases and discriminatory practices and policies, denying women fair access to capital and resources. Gender-responsive financing is imperative to rectify this injustice and ensure women’s full participation in economic activities.
Shift to a green economy and care society: Women bear disproportionate burdens from environmental degradation. Yet, their voices are often ignored in discussions on sustainable development and climate action. It is time to recognize and empower women as key agents of change in building a sustainable future.
Support change drivers: Women activists and leaders courageously champion gender equality and social justice, often at great personal risk. Yet, they face rampant discrimination, violence, and harassment. It is incumbent upon society to stand in solidarity with these fearless trail-blazing advocates and provide them with unwavering support and protection.
FIDA Nigeria makes a concerted call upon the Federal Government, institutions, stakeholders, policymakers, civil society organizations and all individuals of goodwill to heed this urgent call to action. A world that is equitable and inclusive is possible, where our unique differences are valued and celebrated. Together we can accelerate progress for society when we choose to invest in women, advance equality and inspire inclusion for all!
Let us commit ourselves to dismantle all barriers that exclude and oppress women, and pave the way for a more just, equitable, egalitarian and inclusive society for all.
Take action today! Inspire and Invest in Women!
FOR: FIDA NIGERIA
Amina Suzanah Agbaje, (Mrs.)
Country Vice President/National President
InvestInWomen #InternationalWomensDay2024
#FIDA_Nigeria #IWD #Acceleratingprogress
#InspireInclusion #GenderEquality
womensrightsarehumanrights
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria’s 2024 Leadership Training: Empowering Leaders Across Regions for a Brighter Future
FIDA Nigeria successfully concluded its 2024 leadership training on February 23rd and 24th, concurrently held across the North, South, East, and West regions. This decentralized approach was designed to ensure easy accessibility to locations nationwide.
The two-day intensive training, tailored for both current leaders and aspiring ones, provided essential knowledge to fortify FIDA Nigeria’s position for the future.
The event was brimming with growth opportunities and empowerment sessions! Participants engaged in a wide array of topics including Leadership, Team Building, Mediation and Counseling, Organizational Effectiveness, as well as individual and branch SWOT analysis, Advocacy Skills, and more.
Interactive exercises fostered hands-on learning experiences, empowering attendees to tackle challenges with confidence. Through comprehensive post-assessment evaluations, participants departed with a profound grasp of the core concepts.
At FIDA Nigeria, we are steadfast in our commitment to cultivating robust, effective leadership for sustained institutional growth.
Together, we are forging ahead towards building a more equitable society for all!
Northern Zone Highlights
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Epe Branch Advocates Against Female Genital Mutilation on International Day of Zero Tolerance: Her Voice, Her Future
FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch Commemorates the International Day of Zero Tolerance For Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) with a media advocacy journalism .
On 6th of February , FIDA Epe commemorated the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM ) with a media advocacy on Law FM 103.9 .
In discussing the theme for the year : Her Voice , Her Future , Mrs . Abiye Tam-George while speaking on behalf of FIDA Epe emphasized on the need for the survivors of this harmful practice to speak up and challenge this harmful gender norm in our communities in order to eliminate it completely . We must create environments where girls and women can enjoy their rights to health , education and safety . Let’s unite to safeguard the future of our girls.
#FIDAEpe #FIDAcares #StopFGM #HervoiceHerfuture
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Urges Action on International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2024
Theme: Her Voice. Her Future.
Investing in FGM Survivor-Led Movements to End Female Genital Mutilation
Every Survivor’s voice is a loud and powerful cry, calling out for ACTION; collective action to end the vicious cycle of the harmful practice of Female Genital Mutilation ( FGM) in Nigeria.
FGM is an unhealthy wicked traditional practice targeted at girls with no health benefits to the woman. Rather she is exposed to a host of medical complications which includes physical pains, emotional and psychological trauma, sometimes resulting in grave consequences such as death.
It is a serious violation of a woman’s human right, however because it is deeply rooted in cultural and traditional beliefs it has remained difficult to change in Nigeria
The haunting echoes of pain and suffering caused by Female Genital Mutilation demand our collective attention and action.
FIDA Nigeria believes in the strength and resilience of survivors in reclaiming their lives. The scars left by FGM indeed run deep, affecting the physical and emotional well-being of survivors. Persons who ordinarily would have had a full and fruitful life riding to the Pinnacle of their chosen fields.
As the world observes the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation on the 6th of February 2024, FIDA Nigeria stands in solidarity with such survivors and amplifies the theme for this year: Her Voice. Her Future.
“The Sustainable Development Goals contain a specific target calling for an end to FGM. When this practice is fully abandoned, positive effects will reverberate across societies as girls and women reclaim their health, human rights, and vast potential.” — UN Secretary-General
FIDA Nigeria recognizes survivors are not just victims but resilient individuals whose voices need to be heard. Their stories are a good testament to the urgency of our collective responsibility to eradicate this harmful practice.
This year’s theme, “Her Voice. Her Future.”, emphasizes the importance of empowering survivors to become leaders in the fight against FGM.
FIDA Nigeria is committed to investing in survivor-led movements, providing them with the support and resources they need to drive change in their communities.
Survivors are not statistics; they are living testaments to the strength of the human spirit. Their voices matter, and it is time for us to listen and act.
We believe in the positive impact of continued sensitization and advocacy especially at the grassroots through collective efforts to shout ‘No To FGM’ to save women.
Everyone has a part to play speaking out against FGM’ as practiced in your communities and educating the youth especially. Women affected should report to the closest health facilities around you to be properly checked to avoid infections and other dire consequences.
Support women to succeed
Join FIDA Nigeria on 6 February 2024 as we amplify
HerVoiceMatters in leading the #EndFGM movement. Together, let us create a future where every girl and woman is free from the shackles of Female Genital Mutilation.
FOR: FIDA NIGERIA
Signed
Amina Suzanah Agbaje, (Mrs.)
Country Vice President/National President
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Hosts National Workshop to Advance Women and Children’s Rights in Criminal Justice System
FIDA Nigeria held a one-day National Methodology Workshop On the 2nd day of February, 2024, towards firming the tools to be utilized on a Formative research aimed at exploring promising practices in advancing the rights of women and children through the Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Laws in selected states which is supported by MacArthur Foundation.
The research will be used to ascertain progress on FIDA Nigeria and the work of all Criminal Justice stakeholders in providing a gender protective environment through the legal frameworks while also conducting a comparative analysis between the ACJA & VAPP Act/laws in protecting rights of Women.
The tool for the research was developed and agreed by experts in attendance.
FIDA Nigeria held a one-day National Methodology Workshop On the 2nd day of February, 2024, towards firming the tools to be utilized on a Formative research aimed at exploring promising practices in advancing the rights of women and children through the Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Laws in selected states which is supported by MacArthur Foundation.
The research will be used to ascertain progress on FIDA Nigeria and the work of all Criminal Justice stakeholders in providing a gender protective environment through the legal frameworks while also conducting a comparative analysis between the ACJA & VAPP Act/laws in protecting rights of Women.
The tool for the research was developed and agreed by experts in attendance.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Staff Retreat Day 2: Unveiling Exit Strategies, Operational Excellence, and Unforgettable Moments of Fun
Day 2 of the FIDA Nigeria Staff Retreat was nothing short of a thrilling adventure! Dr. Otive Igbuzor set the stage on fire with an eye-opening presentation on Exit Strategic Planning, sparking lively discussions and collaborative group activities. Then, Dr. Benson Olugbuo took the spotlight, weaving his magic on Operational Effectiveness.
The day unfolded with vibrant Departmental Presentations, validating workplans that got everyone buzzing with excitement. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, it was time for Frank Talk by our incredible Staff & National Executive.
The grand finale was an epic dinner party, a spectacular blend of games and karaoke, turning the evening into a series of unforgettable moments.
FIDANigeria #RetreatAdventures #UnforgettableMoments
by FIDAElevating Impact: FIDA Nigeria Launches into 2024 with a Power-Packed Retreat, Focusing on Organizational Excellence and Sustainable Growth
Welcoming the New Year with a bang!
FIDA Nigeria kicked off 2024 with a dynamic two-day Retreat uniting our incredible team and National Executive to set the tone for an exciting year ahead with the theme: Building an Effective Organization towards Achieving Sustainable Milestones
Day one started with a burst of energy as we embraced fitness with an invigorating aerobics session for both our staff and executive. But that was just the beginning! We delved into the heart of our mission with a comprehensive review of FIDA Nigeria’s programs, institutional interventions, and other departmental/unit operations in 2023.
Looking forward, we were thrilled to share insights on “Improving Local Fundraising Avenues in 2024” presented by Ezinwa E. Obiajunwa, Admin/Assistant Program Manager, and Philip Okonkwo, Finance Manager.
Fikih Obaro, our Program Manager, shed light on the 2023 organizational capacity assessment tool (OCAT) to ensure that we’re at the top of our game.
There was also an engaging session on Resource Mobilization Strategies through Grant Making & Sourcing in 2024, featuring the expertise of Rita Lasoju, Senior Program Officer, and Ifeanyi Eze, Program Officer.
Closing the day on a high note, we fostered team bonding through fun games, creating lasting memories and reinforcing our commitment to excellence. Join us on this incredible journey!
Ready to make a difference with FIDA Nigeria? Take action now – stay tuned for exciting updates and opportunities!
#FIDANigeria #NewYearRetreat #TeamBuilding #MakeADifference
