by FIDAHonouring 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 FIDAFIDA 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 FIDAKicking 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 FIDAFIDA 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 FIDAFIDA 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
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Rallies Edo Communities in Support of Reserved Seats for Women
As part of efforts to promote inclusive governance and strengthen women’s political participation, FIDA Nigeria held a series of town hall meetings across Edo State to amplify support for the Special Seats Reserved for Women Bill. The initiative was carried out in collaboration with FOMWAN and with support from UN Women.
The state-level town hall in Benin City brought together over 60 stakeholders including women leaders, traditional rulers, political party representatives, civil society actors, He4She advocates and media professionals to examine barriers to women’s political participation and discuss the Reserved Seats Bill as a solution to bridging the gender gap.
Follow-up town halls in Edo South, Central and North extended the conversation to the grassroots, engaging local officials, religious leaders, youth groups and male allies. These sessions helped mobilize widespread community support for the bill.
The resounding message: inclusive leadership is key to national development. Women deserve equal seats and voices at the decision-making table.
SpecialSeatsReserved4WomenBill
HerSeatInParliament
SideBySideCampaign
by FIDAOyo Champions Women’s Political Inclusion: Stakeholders Rally for Reserved Seats Bill
In Oyo State, the push for inclusive governance continues to grow. Through a series of town hall meetings in Ibadan, Iseyin, and across the three senatorial districts, stakeholders rallied behind the Reserved Seats Bill for Women as a strategic step toward gender-balanced representation.
Participants, including traditional rulers, legislators, women and youth leaders, persons with disabilities, and community advocates, shared vital insights. From calls for safer political spaces and inclusive civic education to the need for better data and legal reforms, discussions shaped memoranda submitted to the Constitutional Reform Committee.
In Ibadan, Honorable Comforter Adeniyi-Olajide and Honorable Olubisi Oluranti Michael joined others in calling for bold action to strengthen women’s political participation.
These conversations are not just about policy they are about building a democracy that reflects all voices.
This initiative was convened by FIDA Nigeria in partnership with FOMWAN, with support from UN Women.
by FIDAWorld Day Against Child Labour 2025
Theme: Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: Let’s speed up efforts!
FIDA Nigeria Demands Bold Action to End Child Labour: Our Children Are Not Workers. They Are Human Beings — And They Deserve Better.
Today, as the world observes the World Day Against Child Labour, FIDA Nigeria speaks not just as lawyers, but as mothers, daughters, sisters, and neighbours compelled to raise our voices for the children who cannot speak for themselves.
Too many Nigerian children are still being robbed of their childhood. Some are forced into homes they don’t belong to, made to scrub floors, sell goods on the streets, carry loads too heavy for their tiny frames. They are denied education, safety, and love. And all of this is happening whilst we all look away, or worse still, justify it as tradition, survival, or “normal.”
We cannot keep calling all of these wrongs children learning skills. It is abuse, neglect, violence, cruelty, and inhumane, degrading treatment being meted out to children on a daily basis; it is Child Labour.
Take the case of Bashariya, a 14-year-old girl displaced by armed conflict in Zamfara, forced to live in a camp in Sokoto. She was taken to Abuja to work as a maid by someone who should have protected her. Instead, she was beaten, starved, and burned with fire. Let that sink in: a child, bathed with fire. Today, she is back in the camp, scared, scarred, and silenced.
And yet, we have laws and policies. But sadly, we need better enforcement and accountability. We must be outraged by the ills done to children learning skills, and muster the necessary willpower for quick action.
FIDA Nigeria is calling for more than promises. We are demanding change:
- Immediate justice for Bashariya and every child like her
- Coordinated efforts between social services, law enforcement, and the justice system to stop child trafficking and labor
- Stronger safety nets to lift families out of poverty and reduce dependence on child income
- Massive community sensitization to shift mindsets and reject the normalization of child exploitation
- Full accountability for those who use power and privilege to exploit the vulnerable and voiceless
- Accessible, child-friendly reporting and rescue systems in every state
This Is No Longer About Statistics. It’s About Our Humanity.
Every child is someone’s daughter, someone’s son. Every child deserves a safe home, a good school, and a chance to dream. What future are we building if we allow our children to be brutalized and discarded? If we fail to protect the most vulnerable, what does that say about who we are as a nation?
We can no longer afford to be silent. We must be louder than the excuses. Braver than the fear. Firmer than the culture that permits this pain.
FIDA Nigeria is committed to standing in the gap, using the law, our voices, and our hearts to fight for every child. But we cannot do it alone.
We call on all Nigerians — government leaders, communities, religious institutions, the private sector, and every person of conscience — to rise and protect our children. Not tomorrow. Today is the right time.
Because no child should suffer in silence.
Because justice delayed is childhood stolen.
Let’s work together to stop Child Labour and protect our children so they can enjoy their childhood and grow up to be responsible adults.
Signed
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAA CHILD’S BODY SCORCHED, HER SPIRIT BROKEN – FIDA NIGERIA DEMANDS JUSTICE FOR BASHARIYA
She is just 14 years old. A child.
Her name is Bashariya—but today, she represents countless Nigerian children whose innocence is violently snatched away behind closed doors, shielded by power, silenced by fear.
FIDA Nigeria has received with deep sorrow yet fury, the disturbing report of the case of Bashariya, a young girl displaced by the horrors of banditry in Zamfara.
Forced by circumstances beyond her control, her family took shelter in a displacement camp in Gwiwa Eka, Sokoto State seeking refuge from violence. But little did they know that tragedy would follow her to what should have been a place of safety and refuge.
She was allegedly taken to Abuja (by one Mrs. Fauziya, wife of a sitting Judge in Sokoto), to work as a maid in circumstances that can be allegedly described as child labour/ trafficking.
And what followed was nothing short of torture, as she was allegedly forced to labour under very harsh conditions:
• She was starved.
• Beaten without mercy.
• And in an act so cruel it defies comprehension—she was bathed with fire.
Let that sink in: A 14-year-old girl was burned as punishment.
Today, her small body bears the scars of this wickedness. Her spirit, shattered. Her trust in adults, broken. She is now back in the IDP camp, not with relief—but fully traumatized, fearful of everything around her and silence hanging over her like a dark cloud.
Yet we have protective laws that guarantee her rights; Yet we see her alleged abuser, emboldened by proximity to power, while her family is fearful having been warned not to dare report the crime as “Nothing will happen. We are the highest authority,” her perpetrator reportedly bragged.
But today, we say: Something SHALL happen.
FIDA Nigeria is enraged, and we SHALL not be silent.
OUR DEMANDS ARE CLEAR:
- A thorough investigation of this case including the immediate arrest and diligent prosecution of all person’s involved in this matter, No immunity; No cover-up; No delay.
- Urgent full medical (physical and psychological….) attention/ treatment including proper rehabilitation for Bashariya through a trauma-informed approach.
- Protective Custody and full legal support for the family, to ensure their safety and access to justice.
We call on the relevant authorities to fully implement the Child Rights Act and VAPP Act.
THIS IS BIGGER THAN ONE CHILD.
This is about the system that allows vulnerable children to be exploited and brutalized without consequence. It is about the dangerous silence that protects abusers when they wear fine robes and occupy respected offices.
We must draw the line.
If Bashariya—poor, displaced, voiceless—cannot get justice, then every child in Nigeria is at risk.
FIDA Nigeria is calling on the Ministry of Women Affairs, NAPTIP, Nigeria Police Force, the National Human Rights Commission, and all relevant agencies to treat this case as a national emergency.
TO THE PUBLIC:
Let us not scroll past her pain.
Let us not wait until the next child is burned.
Together let us speak out and Demand Justice.
Share her story. Raise your voice.
Bashariya’s scars are visible. But countless others suffer in silence around us. If we do nothing, we are complicit. Let’s do something.
IN CONCLUSION:
We owe Bashariya more than sympathy.
We owe her justice.
We owe her healing.
We owe her safety from those who think their power makes them untouchable.
Let the law speak loud and clear.
Let the system prove that it works for every Nigerian child—especially the most vulnerable.
Justice must come. And it must come swiftly.
Signed,
FIDA Nigeria
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDABuilding Stronger Leaders for Justice: FIDA Abuja Hosts Strategic Leadership Retreat
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Abuja Branch, held a transformative one-day leadership retreat on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, bringing together its Executive Officers, Principal Committee Leads, and Secretariat Staff for a powerful session of learning, reflection, and strategy.
The retreat, designed to fortify internal capacity and sharpen leadership effectiveness, marked a significant milestone in the Branch’s continued commitment to delivering on FIDA’s mission of advancing the rights of women and children.
In her welcome address, the Chairperson of FIDA Abuja, Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko, urged participants to seize the opportunity to learn, connect, and grow. “This retreat is a moment to align our energies, strengthen our foundation, and recommit to the values that make FIDA a force for justice and change,” she said.
Participants engaged in insightful sessions covering essential themes such as the FIDA Abuja Branch Work Plan, a SWOT analysis of current operations, committee-led strategies for achieving FIDA’s vision, and international best practices in accountability, transparency, and resource management. Additional sessions delved into effective team building, conflict resolution, and the unique architecture of FIDA’s leadership and organogram.
The retreat was enriched by an array of expert facilitators including Roseline Tasha, Rachael Rekia Adejo-Andrews, Chibuzo Maureen Nwosu, Wendy Kuku, SAN, and Amina Agbaje—renowned FIDA leaders with robust experience at both branch and national levels. Their practical insights and guidance equipped participants with tools for more effective and visionary leadership.
A highlight of the day was the “Experiential Nuggets” session, featuring thought-provoking stories and leadership lessons from Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor, President of FIDA International, and Chief Mrs. Victoria Awomolo, SAN, past Regional Vice-President. Their words inspired deep reflection and renewed commitment to service rooted in purpose and impact.
In a show of steadfast support, the retreat was generously sponsored by J.S. Okutepa, SAN, who delivered a rousing charge to participants—urging unity, love in service, and unwavering commitment to the cause of justice for women and girls. In recognition of his consistent support and dedication to FIDA’s ideals, he was conferred with the prestigious honorary title of Patron of FIDA Nigeria, Abuja Branch.
The retreat concluded on a high note—fostering camaraderie, purpose, and renewed resolve among participants to lead boldly and collaborate effectively. It set a fresh tone for the Branch as it continues to promote, protect, and preserve the rights and dignity of women and children across Nigeria.
FIDA Abuja remains unwavering in its mission—and with strengthened leadership and shared vision, the future of the Branch looks even more impactful.
