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.