by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria Side Event at the NBA-AGC 2025 – Enugu

FIDA Nigeria Side Event at the NBA-AGC 2025 – Enugu

At the just-concluded NBA Annual General Conference in Enugu, FIDA Nigeria lit up the conference with her Side Event themed:

“Stand Out, Stand Tall: Building Resilience for Excellence; Effective Implementation of Gender Parity and Protection of the Nigerian Child.”

From the very beginning, it was clear this was no ordinary session. The hall filled up quickly, overflowing with participants judges, SANs, magistrates, law professors, Ministry of Justice officials, young wigs, students, and even our cherished HeForShes. Those who couldn’t find a seat stood outside, determined not to miss a word.

In her stirring keynote, the Country Vice President of FIDA Nigeria, Eliana Martins, urged women to “Stand Out, Stand Tall” by living with resilience, integrity, and service. She made a bold call for reserved seats for women in leadership and stronger child protection laws reminding us all that true justice cannot exist where women and children are sidelined.

The event drew an impressive roll call of eminent personalities: Justices Angela Anidi (Rtd), Ngozika Oji, Augusta Uche Kingsley-Chuku, Prof. Lizzy Oji, and Catherine Nwobodo; renowned academics like Prof. M.V.C. Ozioko and Prof. Chika Chinweze; Dr. Mercy Oke-Chinda, Adejoke Layi-Babatunde (representing Senator Biodun Olujimi); and many other champions of justice who came with one purpose to stand with women and children.

The atmosphere was electric. NBA female national officers were in full force, with a goodwill message from the First Vice President, Zainab Aminu Garba. We also celebrated Mrs Oyinkansola Badejo Okusanya, our newly conferred Learned Silk, with prayers that more women will rise to the rank in years to come.

FIDA Benue stole hearts when they proudly dressed and prayed for the CVP, while seniors and colleagues from the Bar lent their voices in support. It wasn’t just an event it felt like a family gathering, with branches, friends, and collaborators all coming together in unity and excitement.

And through it all, one message rang loud and clear:
Every woman deserves a voice.
Every child deserves protection.
Every community deserves justice.

That is the promise of FIDA Nigeria. A promise we will continue to keep.

FIDANigeria #NBAAGC2025 #StandOutStandTall #GenderParity #ChildProtection #WomenInLeadership #JusticeForAll

by FIDA

FIDA NIGERIA CALLS FOR GENDER SENSITIVE SECURITY PROCEDURES AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE AVIATION INDUSTRY

FIDA Nigeria has followed with concern the recent events surrounding the forcible evacuation of Ms. Comfort Emmanson from an Ibom Air flight on August 10, 2025, and the subsequent immediate lifetime “No Fly” ban issued by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON).

While we maintain that violence or unruly conduct onboard an aircraft is unacceptable and must be addressed within the ambit of the law, we are equally disturbed by the manner in which this incident was handled and the broader implications for passengers’ rights, due process, and the image of Nigeria’s aviation sector.

From the available footage of the forceful evacuation of Ms. Comfort from the Ibom Air aircraft, and from eyewitness accounts, we seek clarification as to why the female Aviation Security (AVSEC) officers present were not instructed to apprehend the female passenger in line with best practices and gender sensitive arrest protocols.

Furthermore, we are concerned as to why Ms. Emmanson was detained in the plane until other passengers left, and whether having been forcibly removed from the aircraft, was duly informed of her rights before being formally placed under arrest.

We are quite alarmed that the evacuation of Ms. Emmanson degenerated into what appeared to be an undignified mob scene, with multiple spectators recording instead of a controlled and professional intervention.

We are furthermore shocked at the deliberate release of such a recording to the public space.

We earnestly demand that Ibom Air provide the official in-flight recordings to clarify what actually transpired before the incident escalated and degenerated to violence fits on both sides. We stress that both sides must be objectively heard and full investigation must take place before any punishment is dispensed.

FIDA Nigeria believes that the video of her humiliation and forceful removal, which circulated widely in the public space, clearly violated her fundamental right to dignity and privacy as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended); Not to mention the No Flight lifetime ban without full investigation which can be construed as an infringement of her right to fair hearing and a violation of her right to movement.

FIDA Nigeria is further troubled by the apparent awareness of the officers that they were being filmed, and the subsequent prioritization of optics over good etiquette, due process and lawful procedure. Such conduct also warrants prompt disciplinary action.

Additionally, the swiftness with which the lifetime ban was imposed which raises concerns as to whether due process was fully observed also points to the differential treatment in the last two cases of misconduct at the airport where the person’s concerned left with a pat on the wrist and a blatant disregard of the constitutional presumption of innocence in her favour, until proven otherwise by a competent Court.

As a nation governed by the rule of law, disciplinary measures must across board be proportionate, evidence based, and follow transparent investigation. That way, justice will not only be done but seen to be done.

We note that eyewitness accounts do not conclusively establish what occurred inside the aircraft after other passengers had disembarked. The absence of such clarity undermines confidence in the fairness of the sanction.

This incident has exposed broader systemic gaps in Nigeria’s aviation security framework. It suggests that AVSEC personnel may not be adequately trained to handle such situations professionally and proportionately.

FIDA Nigeria calls on stakeholders in the aviation industry to implement measures that immediately adequately sensitize passengers about expected conduct and the legal consequences of unruly behavior.

Regular training and retraining of airline personnel and aviation marshals should be conducted to strengthen crisis management protocols and de-escalate threats onboard and at our airports. This will ensure operational lapses do not fuel public disorder while safeguarding the rights of passengers.

Passengers have rights and must at all times be treated with respect and dignity. Likewise passengers must reciprocate and cooperate with airlines and airport officials in the discharge of their necessary roles.

The handling of this case must serve as a catalyst for stakeholder engagement, bringing together security agencies, airlines, civil society, and passenger advocacy groups to ensure that safety, rights, and dignity are upheld equally.

As advocates for justice, we reiterate that safety in aviation must never come at the expense of human rights, and human rights must never compromise safety. Both can and must be achieved through professionalism, training, and accountability.

We urge the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), AVSEC, and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) to urgently review their stance, withdraw the life ban, and offer an apology to the passenger; reform their security and crisis response protocols, and conduct an objective full investigation into the current incidence, before any punishment is dispensed.

FIDA Nigeria is interested in this matter.

Signed

Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria

Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria

by FIDA

Day Against Trafficking in Persons

2025 Theme: Human Trafficking is Organized Crime – End the Exploitation

FIDA Nigeria has repeatedly borne witness to the painful aftermath of human trafficking as it affects families, particularly women and children.

We have listened to the voices of displaced girls forced into sexual slavery, children deceived and pushed into forced labor, and young women tricked into foreign servitude under false promises of a better life. These are not isolated misfortunes; they are the results of a deeply entrenched system of organized exploitation, orchestrated by criminal networks that operate across borders, who thrive in vulnerable communities, and often act in full view.

This year’s theme compels us to look beyond the surface, because Human Trafficking is not simply a social problem; but rather, it is usually a calculated, multi-billion-dollar criminal enterprise, feeding on corruption, poverty, insecurity, weak institutions, and the vulnerability of those who have the least exposure and protection.

Across Nigeria, even between states, trafficking networks continue to flourish as children are transported from rural villages to urban centers where they are exploited as domestic servants and child laborers.
Our Girls are trafficked by close family and associates under the pretense of education or job opportunities then subjected to intense abuse; while young boys toil in plantations, illegal mining pits, construction sites, and sex markets, maltreated, malnourished and without adequate pay, with a great danger to their physical and emotional well-being.

These victims living in fear, remain trapped in the informal, largely unregulated sectors, are hidden and unheard of, without access to social protection and justice

FIDA Nigeria raises its voice in alarm as we cannot tackle organized crime with fragmented, uncoordinated, halfhearted responses, this is unacceptable as a multifaceted integrated approach is preferred and advised.

We therefore call on all the relevant Nigerian government agencies, law enforcement agencies, immigration and border control officers, civil society, and traditional and religious leaders to take immediate, coordinated action to:

Strengthen Law Enforcement (improved intelligence gathering & proper investigations); Ensure Swift Prosecution

Trafficking syndicates are well-structured and intentional. Our legal and law enforcement response must be equally fast, robust and resolute.

Anti-trafficking Laws must be enforced without delay such that Justice is visibly seen and felt.

Prioritize Early Identification and Comprehensive Victim Support being that alot of victims remain hiding in the shadows.

Community-level identification systems must be improved. Survivors need access to safe shelters, trauma-informed psychosocial support, legal aid, and long-term reintegration programs.

Amplify Prevention and Public Awareness campaigns in local languages because
Prevention is our first line of action. We must continuously educate families and communities especially in rural and underserved areas on the antics and tactics often deployed by traffickers and where they can seek available help.

While tackling inter- state traffickers within Nigeria, we must also Strengthen Transnational and Regional Collaborations because Human Traffickers operate syndicated transnational networks
Intelligence sharing, regional cooperation, and coordinated enforcement are essential to dismantling international trafficking rings.

Empower and Invest in Vulnerable Communities ensuring they become alert and resilient
Poverty is a wide gateway to exploitation. Government and stakeholders must invest in quality education, youth empowerment, social welfare, and sustainable economic opportunities that reduce desperation and restore dignified labor to families.

Forge Strong and Accountable Partnerships
No single institution can fight trafficking alone. Multi-sectoral partnerships involving government agencies, NGOs, faith-based groups, community leaders, survivor advocates, and the private sector are critical to building survivor-centered, results-driven interventions.

Let us unite in stopping modern day slavery, where daily, lives are stripped of dignity by trafficking networks that flourish in silence as they work in the shadows. Let’s note that behind every statistic is a human name, a face, and a future stolen.

The fight to end this injustice is a national imperative, demanding legal force, bold leadership, strong institutions, and an unrelenting commitment to human respect & dignity.
Human trafficking is a crime not a lapse in judgment. It is organized, systemic, and violent. And it must end.

Signed
Mrs. Eliana Martins
Country Vice President National President
FIDA Nigeria

Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria

by FIDA

BUSINESS MEETING & FIDA@60 MAGAZINE UNVEILING

At the heart of every impactful organization lies the courage to reflect, re-evaluate, and reimagine. This spirit defined the National Executive Council (NEC) Business Meeting of FIDA Nigeria, held in the vibrant city of Port Harcourt.
With delegates and national officers gathered from across the federation, this was more than a routine convening. It was a moment of reckoning, strategy, and collective visioning. Reports weren’t just presented; they told stories. Stories of relentless advocacy, transformative programming, financial transparency, and the unwavering dedication of our Secretariat. From the Country Vice President’s reflections to updates from the Programmes, Finance, and Secretariat teams, each report illuminated where FIDA Nigeria stands and the bold path ahead.
A major highlight of the gathering was the unveiling of the FIDA@60 Commemorative Magazine. A visually rich, thoughtfully curated publication chronicling six remarkable decades of FIDA Nigeria. It captures the voices of pioneers, the milestones that defined each era, and the shared commitment that continues to drive the association forward.
The planning of the FIDA@60 celebration, an event marked by beauty, elegance, and deep reflection, was ably steered by Chief (Mrs.) Victoria Awomolo, SAN, who also graced the unveiling ceremony with her distinguished presence. Under the visionary leadership of our immediate past Country Vice President, Mrs. Amina Agbaje, and her dynamic team, the celebration was a resounding success. It honoured our journey, our growth, and our future.
We pay special tribute to all our past FIDA leaders, Emerita Presidents and former officers, who laid formidable structures, nurtured the vision, and left lasting legacies. Their impact is etched into the very fabric of this organization.
As members flipped through the pages of the commemorative magazine, it stirred more than nostalgia. It rekindled purpose, pride, and passion.
FIDA Nigeria is not just looking back. We are leaning forward. Grounded in legacy and propelled by vision, we boldly step into the future.

fidanigeria

by FIDA

A Night of Culture showcasing our rich heritage

Guests and members were thoroughly entertained by the rich heritage of the Kalabari people brought alive by the Ugo Awo dance troupe, and from that to the powerful storytelling through food and culture by Mrs. Gift Braide; the Cultural night was more than just a celebration, It was a communion of diverse heritage spanning across different Zones, from the South-South, South-East, South-West, to the North; each zone took the center stage, weaving their unique cultural identities into one shared tapestry of joy and unity.

The host branch, FIDA Rivers, lit up the room with a performance that stirred pride and joy….yes even lawyers can outshine with dance

We confirm that the air at Portland Hotel Resort, Port Harcourt, on Thursday, June 26th, 2025, was thick with good rhythm and vibrant energy as FIDA Nigeria hosted its Cultural Night; an unforgettable highlight of the Second Quarter National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting.

In attendance were revered legal minds and women of influence, including Hon. Inime Aguma, International Treasurer, FIDA International and Chief (Mrs.) Victoria O. Awomolo, SAN, past Regional Vice President FIDA Africa who added grace and gravitas to the beautiful evening.

The evening closed with heartfelt gratitude from Mrs. Agatha Bio Briggs, Chairperson of the LOC, reminding us why we gather, why we serve, and why positive aspects of our culture matters.

FIDANigeria #FIDANigeriaNEC2025 #CulturalNight

by FIDA

Honouring a Trailblazer: FIDA Nigeria Visits NBA PH Chairman, Mrs. Cordelia U. Eke

In honoring a FIDA Amazon we celebrate a strong, visionary leader and hardworking woman of great merit who has consistently challenged negative norms and succeeded in breaking the glass ceiling.

The Country Vice President/National President of FIDA Nigeria, Eliana Martins, led the delegation of her Executive Officers on a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Port Harcourt Branch, Mrs. Cordelia U. Eke, on Wednesday, 25th June 2025.

Mrs. Cordelia Eke, the first female Chairman of the Port Harcourt Branch was applauded not just for breaking barriers as historic achievement, but for also inspiring a new generation of women in the legal profession to pursue leadership with great capacity and confidence.

The meeting took place as part of the official Advocacy engagements of the CVP during the FIDA Nigeria NEC Meeting Activities which held in Rivers State.

The visit was therefore both significant and meaningful as it provided an opportunity to celebrate her accomplishments, while encouraging her to continue in her path of excellence, as she inspires more women to emulate her giant strides.

In her remarks, Mrs. Eke warmly welcomed the FIDA Nigeria delegation to Port Harcourt, wishing them a productive and fulfilling stay. She also presented the CVP / National President Eliana Martins with a copy of her recently published book, “Criminal Justice in Nigeria: A Practical Guide.”

The visit served as a moment of shared purpose and mutual respect between two influential institutions, united in their commitment to justice and the advancement of the legal profession.

by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria Kicks Off Her 2nd Quarter NEC Meeting in the Heart of Port Harcourt

With great energy and purpose, the Opening Ceremony of FIDA Nigeria’s 2nd Quarter National Executive Council Meeting 2025 commenced in Port Harcourt, the warm and hospitable capital of Rivers State, known for its rich culinary delights and welcoming spirit. The event brought together a formidable force of legal minds, women’s rights advocates, and justice champions from across the nation.

Theme: Addressing Key Steps to Gender Equality and Justice in Nigeria

The event was declared open by Hon. Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, DSSRS, Chief Judge of Rivers State, who was also the Chairman of the Opening Ceremony; he emphasized the urgent need to challenge systemic inequality and uphold justice for all, especially for women and children.

In her rousing welcome, Country Vice President Eliana Martins reminded all that gender equality is not a luxury., but a necessity. She called for collective advocacy, capacity building, and strong partnerships to dismantle the barriers still holding many back. “This gathering is more than an event. It’s a movement for impact,” she affirmed.

Our esteemed Keynote Speaker, Prof. Heoma Nsirim-Worlu, delivered a thought-provoking presentation, underscoring the need to treat gender as a human rights issue, enforce inclusive policy reforms, transform the justice sector, integrate gender education into school curricula, and demonstrate the political will needed to embed gender equality in governance at every level.

Goodwill messages poured in from notable figures including the Permanent Secretary Dr Vera Sam-Dike Ministery of Social Welfare, ably represented by Evelyn Membere Asimea (Office of the Public Defender, Rivers State) Hon Inime Aguma (The International Treasurer, FIDA International & Past CVP FIDA Nigeria), Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN, Professor Foluke Dada-Lawanson, Mr Adesina Adegbite Immediate Past General Secretary NBA, amongst others.

Special recognition was given to His Royal Majesty, Dr Ernest Philip Obeli JP, DSSRS, for gracing the event, as well as our amazing Rivers State Branch and Local Organizing Committee for their warm hospitality and seamless planning.

From keynote insights to inspiring speeches and royal presence, the tone is set for a truly impactful NEC meeting filled with strategy, service, and solidarity.

The journey to a fairer Nigeria begins with bold conversations and continues through deliberate, sustained action. And here in Port Harcourt, FIDA Nigeria is taking the steps that matter.

by FIDA

Kicking Off in Style!

What better way to begin than with laughter, hugs, and heartfelt reunions. FIDA Nigeria welcomed delegates from all over her branches across the nation with a warm and vibrant Welcome Cocktail Party, setting the pace for the 2nd Quarter National Executive Council Meeting.

Hosted in the ever-vibrant city of Port Harcourt, the evening offered far more than clinking glasses and polite chatter, it created space for genuine connection, shared purpose, and renewed energy. Delegates gathered not only to unwind after long journeys, but to bond, reflect, and prepare for the work ahead.

From heartfelt welcomes and inspiring toasts, to networking moments and dance-floor memories the evening reminded us that behind every robe and title is a sisterhood driven by passion and purpose.

As the music faded and goodbyes lingered in the air, one thing was clear: FIDA Nigeria is not just an association, it’s a community that thrives on connection, compassion, and collective strength.

FIDANigeria

by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria Spreads Love and Hope at Port Harcourt Safe Home

FIDA Nigeria is in the Garden City for her Second Quarter National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting.

As part of our early engagements, we visited a Safe Home to reinforce our commitment to supporting and protecting vulnerable children.

Led by Country Vice President Eliana Martins, and joined by the Immediate Past CVP Amina Suzanah Agbaje, and other FIDA National Executives, NEC members, and the FIDA Rivers Branch leadership/ members, the delegation was warmly received by the Host, the Hon. Permanent Secretary Ministry of Social Welfare Prof. Justina Jumbo, ably supported by six Directors and other key Officers.

She shared the ongoing impact of the facility, which is a one stop center offering medical care, psychosocial support, legal aid, and rehabilitation and so forth for vulnerable children in need.

The children welcomed FIDANs with vibrant performances in song and dance, creating a moment of joy and connection.

Addressing them, CVP Eliana Martins said:

“We came because we care. You are loved, valued, and your future holds great promise. Do not dispire, FIDA believes in you, and we will continue to stand by you and give you a voice and all necessary support.”

FIDA Nigeria presented essential supplies including food, toiletries, bags and educational materials, symbolizing our support for the home and its work.

“It’s not only about giving, but about showing up with compassion and standing in solidarity,” CVP added.

The visit ended with laughter and shared dances, a powerful reminder of the joy that comes from purposeful service.

FIDANigeria #NEC

by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria Hosts Global Affairs Canada and ActionAid Nigeria to Strengthen Women’s Voice and Leadership Impact

Yesterday, FIDA Nigeria had the pleasure of hosting teams from Global Affairs Canada and ActionAid Nigeria at our National Secretariat in Abuja.

The visit, centered on the Women’s Voice and Leadership (WVL) Project, provided an important opportunity to reflect on how their continued support has enhanced our internal systems, improved our administrative capacity, and strengthened the overall delivery of our mission.

We also engaged in productive discussions around refining the Renewed-WVL Programme, exploring contextual challenges that affect our work, and identifying practical solutions for improving access to justice for women and children across Nigeria.

This meaningful exchange reaffirmed the power of sustained partnerships in building resilient institutions, ones that serve with purpose, clarity, and impact. As we advance the rights of women and children and amplify women’s voices in leadership, we are proud to walk this journey with partners who believe in our cause.

Together, we are rewriting she-stories and shaping a future where #NigeriaWomenMatter.

#FIDA #FidaNigeria #WVL #GAC #ActionAidNigeria #WomenInLeadership #AccessToJustice