by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Leads Statewide Forum in Plateau to Strengthen Action Against Gender-Based Violence with Support from Ford Foundation
In Plateau State, a significant step was taken to deepen efforts in ending violence against women and girls. With the support of the Ford Foundation, FIDA Nigeria convened a statewide experiential learning forum that spotlighted critical issues and fostered impactful dialogue among key stakeholders.
The forum served as a strategic platform where traditional and religious leaders, civil society groups, male gender advocates, and state officials came together to assess progress in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV). Through open discussions and the sharing of lived experiences, participants examined successful interventions, identified persistent gaps, and explored new ways to better support survivors and prevent future cases.
What emerged from the forum was more than just insight — it was a collective renewal of purpose. Stakeholders pledged to reinforce collaboration, scale up effective strategies, and strengthen systems that protect the rights and dignity of women and girls across Plateau State.
This forum marks yet another milestone in FIDA Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to building a society free from all forms of gender-based violence.
fidanigeria #EndGBV
by FIDAFIDA Cross River at St. Patrick’s Parish for 2025 Children’s Day!
To mark this year’s Children’s Day, FIDA Cross River State visited St. Patrick’s Parish, Calabar, to engage children and parents on Child Safeguarding, the Child Rights Law, and the dangers of Cyberbullying.
Speaking during the event, the Immediate Past Chairperson of the Branch, Ms. Ann Awah emphasized the importance of protecting children from all forms of abuse and exploitation, both offline and online.
She gave an overview of the Child Rights Law, highlighting its key provisions and the responsibilities of caregivers, institutions, and the state in ensuring every child’s well-being.
At FIDA CRS, we’re committed to protecting every child’s right to safety, dignity, and a bright future — both offline and online. Let’s keep raising awareness and standing up for our children!
by FIDAFIDA Ekiti Celebrates 2025 Children’s Day
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Ekiti State Chapter celebrated Children’s Day with two impactful programs.
On May 26, 2025, FIDA Ekiti participated in a TV program at NTA Ado Ekiti to discuss the Child Rights Act. The discussion, led by Chairperson Ayobami Olowoyo-Richards, along with Busayo Adekeye and Awe Adeola, aimed to raise awareness about the importance of protecting children’s rights and promoting a safe and nurturing environment for them.
FIDA Ekiti also celebrated Children’s Day at Adeomi Primary Health Center in Iyin Ekiti. The organization gifted essential items such as diapers, wipes, soap, and baby oil to the babies at the health center. Key discussions during the event, also led by Busayo Adekeye, Awe Adeola, and Chairperson Ayobami Olowoyo-Richards, focused on:
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): The harmful effects of FGM and the need to eliminate this practice.
Child Labor:The importance of protecting children from exploitation and ensuring access to education.
These programs demonstrate FIDA Ekiti’s commitment to promoting children’s rights and welfare in Ekiti State. By engaging in awareness campaigns and providing support to vulnerable children, FIDA Ekiti aims to create a safer and more nurturing environment for all children.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Meets with Head of Civil Service to Strengthen Support for Women, Children, and the Vulnerable in Our Communities
The Country Vice President (CVP) of FIDA Nigeria, Eliana Martins, led a formidable team of distinguished FIDAN Amazons on an Advocacy/Courtesy visit to the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON, Mni. She was warmly supported by the Solicitor General of the Federation, Beatrice Jedy-Agba, alongside several Permanent Secretaries and Directors.
Discussions during the visit focused on key areas including: empowering and creating greater opportunities for women in leadership; promoting diligence, efficiency, and meritocracy in public service; investing in training and capacity-building initiatives; enhancing access to justice and protection for vulnerable groups; expanding legal aid services; and fostering mentorship opportunities for women within the civil service and broader society.
FIDA Nigeria commended the Head of Service for her visionary leadership and the remarkable strides being made through various innovative and progressive programs under her watch.
Present at the meeting were the FIDA International President, Mrs. Ezinwa Okorafor; Chief Mrs. Victoria Awomolo SAN; FIDA Nigeria National Secretary, Rachael Adejo-Andrew; and the FIDA Chairpersons from Abuja, Gwagwalada, and Suleja branches.
FIDA Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to driving forward policies that uplift lives, bridge inequalities, and leave a visible mark on the fabric of our communities.
FIDANigeria
by FIDAFIDA Niger State Strengthens Partnership with ICPC in the Fight Against GBV, Harassment, and Corrupt Practices
In a decisive move to strengthen the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), harassment, and related offenses, the FIDA Nigeria Niger State Branch, on May 28, 2025, paid a strategic advocacy visit to the Niger State Office of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Led by the Chairperson, Mrs. Bolanle Jibogun, Esq., the FIDA Niger team sought to build a solid collaboration with the Commission—particularly in the prosecution of cases under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law. The team emphasized the urgent need for synergy in addressing sexual harassment and other offenses that fall within both the ICPC’s and the VAPP Law’s mandates.
During the meeting, FIDA Niger warmly welcomed the newly appointed Resident State Coordinator (RSRC) of the ICPC and reaffirmed the organization’s unwavering commitment to partnering with the Commission. The interactive session that followed allowed both parties to exchange insights and explore actionable strategies for collaboration.
In response, the ICPC RSRC assured FIDA of the Commission’s full support, especially in public sensitization programs aimed at educating citizens on the scope of offenses handled by the ICPC and how to report them. This assurance marks a significant step toward strengthening public accountability and justice in the state.
As a symbolic gesture of partnership, FIDA Niger presented the VAPP Law to the RSRC and also distributed awareness materials to support ongoing advocacy efforts.
This partnership is expected to accelerate the fight against GBV, enhance prosecutorial effectiveness, and deepen public awareness—ultimately advancing justice and accountability in Niger State.
by FIDAFIDA NIGERIA PARTNERS WITH BIG FAMILY 360 FOUNDATION TO COMBAT GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
At FIDA Nigeria, we believe that every woman deserves to feel safe, protected, and heard. In line with this commitment, we recently welcomed a strategic visit from the Big Family 360 Foundation, led by Mr. Joseph Umaru Philip, as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Nigeria.
During the visit, the Foundation introduced SmartRR, an innovative mobile application designed to simplify the reporting and referral process for GBV cases. Remarkably, the app is accessible even on basic mobile phones, ensuring survivors and service providers across all communities — including rural and underserved areas — can connect quickly and securely.
FIDA Nigeria’s Country Vice President, Mrs. Eliana Martins, expressed strong support for the initiative and reaffirmed our commitment to the collaboration. She emphasized FIDA Nigeria’s readiness to work alongside Big Family 360 Foundation through:
• Joint workshops and sensitization campaigns
• Community-based outreach programs
• Capacity-building initiatives for frontline responders
This partnership underscores our shared vision of a Nigeria where women and girls are free from all forms of violence and discrimination.
Change is not just possible — it begins with action. Together, we will continue to champion the rights and dignity of every woman.
EndGBV #FIDANigeria #SmartRR
by FIDACALL FOR PROPOSAL TOWARDS AMPLIFYING GRASSROOTS EFFORTS FOR GREATER IMPACT
Background
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria continues to lead the charge in advocating for the rights and welfare of women and children across Nigeria. To enhance the impact of its interventions and bridge the gap between national efforts and community-level realities, FIDA Nigeria seeks to strengthen grassroots mobilization and legal empowerment through innovative, community-driven projects led by its state branches.
Problem Statement
Despite significant interventions seeking to address gender inequality and child development challenges in Nigeria; vulnerable populations across grassroots communities, particularly women, children and persons with disabilities remain disproportionately vulnerable due to limited access to justice, inadequate support structures, and deeply entrenched socio-cultural norms prevalent across these local communities. These challenges are further intensified by the lack of coordination among stakeholders, insufficient awareness of legal rights, and resource constraints at the community level.
FIDA Nigeria, as a frontline organization advocating for women’s and children’s rights, faces difficulties in bridging the gap between national, state interventions and grassroots realities.
Many rural and underserved communities lack sustainable referral pathways, effective engagement with local actors, and mechanisms for enforcing women and children’s rights. This disconnect hinders timely responses and the establishment of a supportive environment where survivors can seek justice and protection. Moreover, the absence of comprehensive community-driven initiatives, such as legal clinics, volunteer networks etc over burdens the work of the existing paralegal network, thereby, continuing to perpetuate cycles of violence and marginalization.
Addressing these gaps requires a more holistic grassroots mobilization efforts that prioritize, partnerships with key stakeholders, and the development of localized strategies to bring to light sustainable solutions.
It is on this basis that FIDA Nigeria opens a Call for proposals from State Branches to implement targeted initiatives that will improve access to justice, promote legal literacy, strengthen collaboration and build community partnerships etc.
Objectives of the Initiative
• To strengthen referral pathways between communities and FIDA branches.
• To enhance collaboration and trust between FIDA branches and community stakeholders.
• To promote community-driven, sustainable responses to gender inequality, child rights violations and related justice challenges.
Proposed Activities (Branches may tailor activities in this line; however more innovative approaches would be prioritized):
i. Establish Legal Clinics in selected communities to offer free legal services to indigent women and children. This can include Partnership with Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs) to leverage community resources and shelter services.
ii. Implement Community Awareness and Sensitization Campaigns using local languages, radio programs, town hall meetings, and market outreach.
iii. Replicate the “FIDA Ward” model in Primary Health Centers to provide support services to women/children.
Eligibility
• Only recognized FIDA Nigeria State Branches in good standing are eligible to apply.
• Branches must demonstrate capacity for grassroots engagement and have functional structures (e.g., active committees or community focal persons).
Grant Support
FIDA Nigeria will support 10 selected State Branches with a ₦150,000 grant each:
• Initial disbursement: ₦100,000 upon selection.
• Balance payment: ₦50,000 upon submission of a final report documenting implementation and outcomes.
Note: Branches are encouraged to supplement funding through in-kind contributions, community partnerships, donations, and crowdfunding initiatives to ensure sustainability and broader reach.
Proposal Requirements
Proposals should be no more than 3 pages and must include:
• Title and Brief Description of the initiative.
• Problem Statement specific to the branch’s community context.
• Objectives and expected outcomes.
• Proposed Activities.
• Key Stakeholders and Partnerships to be engaged.
• Implementation Plan and Timeline.
• Monitoring and Evaluation Strategy.
• Sustainability Measures.
Monitoring & Evaluation
FIDA Nigeria’s Community Network Committee, shall monitor and provide oversight on the implementation of selected proposals. Selected branches must participate in periodic progress reviews and submit a final report.
Proposal Submission
All proposals must be submitted electronically to:
📧 fidanigeria@yahoo.com
📌 Subject Line: CFP – Amplifying Grassroots Efforts – [Your State Branch]
Deadline: Applications should be submitted on or before 6th June, 2025
Duration
The implementation period for this initiative is one (1) month, running from July/August, 2025
Contact Information
For further inquiries please contact Mrs. Olusola Olayinka Sulayman, Chairperson FIDA Nigeria Community Network Committee
Conclusion
This initiative presents a strategic opportunity for FIDA State Branches to lead impactful, community-centered interventions that foster inclusive access to justice and sustainable protection of the rights of women and children. We look forward to receiving bold, innovative, and locally relevant proposals from our branches across the federation.
by FIDAKogi West Speaks: A Grassroots Call for Women’s Constitutional Representation
From council chambers to community halls, a powerful message echoed across Kogi West: women deserve a constitutional seat at the table.
On May 23, 2025, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, in collaboration with consortium partner FOMWAN, convened a district-level townhall meeting that united 30 influential stakeholders—including traditional rulers, religious and community leaders, representatives from the Ministry of Justice, civil society organizations, academia, and local government officials.
More than just a gathering, this event marked a strategic and coordinated effort to elevate grassroots voices in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future. The townhall culminated in the development of a community-driven memorandum—rooted not in theory, but in authentic dialogue and consensus—calling for the allocation of special seats for women in Nigeria’s parliament.
This critical engagement, supported by UN Women and funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) of the UK Government, underscores a key truth: meaningful constitutional reform begins from the ground up.
FIDA Nigeria remains committed to amplifying community voices and advancing gender-inclusive governance across the country.
#SpecialSeatsReserved4WomenBill
#HerSeatInParliament
#SideBySideCampaign
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Strengthens Capacity on Freedom of Religion or Belief in the South West
Belief is personal. Safety must be universal.
FIDA Nigeria, through its South West branches, participated in a capacity-building training organized by Search for Common Ground, focused on advancing the protection of Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) across communities.
The three-day training brought together lawyers and human rights advocates to examine practical strategies for safeguarding this fundamental right. Sessions explored how legal frameworks can protect vulnerable individuals, how communities can address religious divides, and how shared values can promote peaceful coexistence.
FIDA Nigeria remains committed to defending the rights of all Nigerians to live free from coercion, discrimination, or fear—regardless of belief or non-belief.
#FIDANigeria
by FIDAAdvocacy Townhall in Lokoja Advances Demand for Special Seats for Women
In Lokoja, voices were raised—not in protest, but with purpose.
FIDA Nigeria, in partnership with FOMWAN, convened a one-day advocacy townhall that brought together women’s groups, civil society organizations, political parties, artisans, market women, and persons with disabilities. These participants were not passive observers—they were active contributors to a growing national dialogue on inclusive governance.
The focus of the engagement was the development of a community-informed memorandum calling for the allocation of special seats for women in Nigeria’s parliament. Grounded in lived experiences and shared realities, the discussions reflected a collective understanding: inclusion must be deliberate, and it must be reflected in the constitution.
Supported by UN Women and funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) of the UK Government, the townhall reinforced the importance of grassroots engagement in shaping national policy priorities.
FIDA Nigeria remains committed to advancing legal and policy frameworks that promote equitable representation and meaningful participation in governance.
#SpecialSeatsReserved4WomenBill
#HerSeatInParliament
#ReservedSeatsNow
