by FIDAOndo FIDA Applauds Governor Aiyedatiwa for Championing Women’s Development
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) in Ondo State has commended the State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his unwavering support of women’s career growth through gender-friendly policies and programs. FIDA Ondo praised the Governor for fostering a conducive environment that empowers women to excel, noting that the newly sworn-in female judges bring a wealth of experience that will enhance the administration of justice in Ondo State.
In a statement issued yesterday in Akure, FIDA Ondo Chairperson, Barr. Catherine Ogunjebi, congratulated the newly appointed judges, particularly those who are members of FIDA, for their well-deserved elevation to the Bench. She described the appointment of three female judges in succession as a significant milestone, reflecting the Governor’s commitment to inclusive governance.
Barr. Ogunjebi also expressed joy for the women of Ondo State, noting that Governor Aiyedatiwa has introduced numerous life-changing programs specifically designed to uplift women, setting a new precedent in the state’s leadership.
by FIDATiti’s Silent Cry: The Hidden Torment of Cyberbullying
Titi had always been the bright star in her team. She worked tirelessly, pushing boundaries and impressing her colleagues. But when her office shifted to remote work, everything changed—drastically and painfully.
It started with what seemed like innocent jokes in the team chat. Little jabs about her presentations, sarcastic comments about her ideas. But then, the anonymous messages began—cruel words about her looks, vicious attacks on her competence, and even mockery of her personal life. Each ping on her phone sent her heart racing. Every email left her feeling more humiliated, more broken.
(Why her?)
Titi had no one to turn to. She was drowning in isolation, suffocating in silence. Her confidence, once so strong, was shattered piece by piece. Every day, she logged in, hoping the abuse would stop, but it never did. It only got worse.
With a trembling voice and a heavy heart, Titi finally reached out to FIDA Nigeria. She shared her pain, hoping for just one person to understand. FIDA did not only listen—they stood by her. They offered her support, helped her find her voice, and made sure she no longer felt alone in her battle.
But this isn’t just Titi’s story. It’s the story of thousands of vulnerable people out there, facing the same cruelty, the same cyberbullying, day after day. Cyberbullying is not just harmful—it is a crime, punishable under Section 24 of the Cybercrime Act 2015, which criminalizes online harassment, threats, and abusive communications.
Did you know? 43% of Nigerian employees have faced cyberbullying at work. It doesn’t just hurt—it destroys lives, dreams, and futures.
At FIDA Nigeria, we are committed to ending the scourge of cyberbullying. For Titi. For countless victims. Every voice deserves to be heard. Do not be silent. Report every case of cyberbullying. #EndCyberbullying
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Extends Heartfelt Commiseration to Borno State Flood Victims
FIDA Nigeria is deeply saddened by the recent flood that has devastated parts of Borno State. Our hearts go out to all those who have been affected, particularly the families who have lost their homes and businesses.
As an organization committed to the protection and advocacy for the rights of women and children, we are especially concerned about the additional challenges faced by the most vulnerable during this crisis. The impact of the flood has been severe, and we stand in solidarity with those enduring these trying times.
We are currently working to understand the extent of the damage and to offer support where it is most needed. Our mission remains focused on providing aid and ensuring that the needs of the vulnerable are addressed, in line with our core values and mandate.
We encourage everyone to support those in need through community efforts and by offering any form of assistance you can provide. Every small action helps in rebuilding lives and restoring hope.
Stay connected with us for updates on our response and ways to get involved. Your support and compassion during this difficult period are greatly appreciated.
With sincere sympathy,
FIDANigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Congratulates Efua Ghartey, First Female President-Elect of the Ghana Bar Association
FIDA Nigeria proudly extends its heartfelt congratulations to Efua Ghartey on her historic election as the first female President-Elect of the Ghana Bar Association. This remarkable achievement is a significant milestone, not only in the legal profession but also in the ongoing pursuit of gender equality and leadership representation across Africa.
Efua Ghartey’s election is a powerful reflection of the strength, resilience, and dedication of women in law. Her leadership marks a new chapter for the Ghana Bar Association and sets a precedent for further inclusion and advancement of women within the legal sector. FIDA Nigeria is confident that under her guidance, the legal profession will witness transformative strides in promoting justice, especially for women, children, and other marginalized groups.
We are excited about the potential for regional collaboration and the positive impact her leadership will have, not just in Ghana but across the continent. Efua’s success serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging more women to rise to positions of influence and lead with vision, courage, and conviction.
FIDA Nigeria looks forward to supporting and witnessing her tenure filled with innovative progress and collaborative achievements. We wish her the very best as she embarks on this inspiring journey.
Once again, congratulations, Efua Ghartey, on this outstanding accomplishment!
Signed,
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Explores Strategic Partnership with NUPRC for the Empowerment of Women and Children
On September 5th, 2024, FIDA Nigeria paid a courtesy visit to Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, FNSE, the Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), in Abuja. The visit aimed to explore collaboration opportunities to empower vulnerable women and children.
This initiative marks a significant advancement in enhancing corporate responsibility within the energy sector and advocating for social justice. FIDA Nigeria seeks to align with stakeholders like NUPRC to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
Leading the FIDA delegation was Mrs. Amina Agbaje, the Country Vice President/National President of FIDA Nigeria. Mrs. Agbaje reiterated FIDA’s commitment to advancing justice, protection, and equitable opportunities for vulnerable groups across Nigeria. In response, Engr. Komolafe reaffirmed the NUPRC’s readiness to partner with FIDA Nigeria on impactful programs that promote inclusivity, empowerment, and social responsibility.
This partnership signals a shared commitment to creating meaningful change and fostering a more just society for women and children.
#FIDANigeria #CollaborativeImpact #NUPRC #JusticeForAll #EmpowermentThroughPartnerships
by FIDAVACANCY FOR THE POSITION OF COMMUNICATION/IT OFFICER
Job Title: Communication Officer
Location: Abuja
Vacancy Type: Fixed-term, renewable
Terms of Reference
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop a comprehensive communications strategy and work plan for FIDA Nigeria and its projects, ensuring alignment with the organization’s overall objectives.
- Draft and publish press statements that advocate for issues or reflect views within FIDA Nigeria’s mandate, subject to approval by the Communications Officer.
- Plan, organize, and implement media and communication campaigns, including press conferences, advocacy events, and media briefings.
- Create, edit, and produce video content, with a focus on documentary storytelling that highlights FIDA Nigeria’s impact.
- Regularly develop and publish the periodic FIDA Alert, ensuring it is timely, accurate, and aligned with FIDA’s advocacy goals.
- Develop engaging content for the E-LOYA magazine, ensuring its relevance to current events and FIDA Nigeria’s priorities.
- Maintain an active and engaging presence across FIDA’s social media platforms by populating them with up-to-date information on branch and national activities.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with media partners to ensure broad coverage of FIDA’s activities, initiatives, and campaigns.
- Monitor, maintain, and periodically upgrade FIDA Nigeria’s website by uploading information, re-designing pages as necessary, and ensuring it remains a vital communication tool for the organization.
- Provide IT support to the National Secretariat, including troubleshooting and maintaining systems and networks to ensure smooth operations.
- Participate in or support courtesy visits to key partners and stakeholders alongside National Officers, or on their behalf, when necessary.
- Represent FIDA Nigeria at meetings, trainings, workshops, and conferences related to publicity, media, IT, and communications, with prior approval from the National Executive Committee.
- Collaborate effectively with colleagues across various departments to foster synergy and ensure the successful implementation of projects and activities.
- Assist in the production of advocacy and promotional materials, such as brochures, newsletters, banners, and flyers, for various FIDA Nigeria programs.
- Maintain a media archive of FIDA Nigeria’s media appearances, publications, and other communication outputs for easy reference.
- Assist in monitoring media trends, evaluating the effectiveness of FIDA Nigeria’s communication strategies, and providing recommendations for improvement.
- Perform any other duties as assigned by the National President/Country Vice President, National Publicity Secretary, or the Program Manager.
Competencies:
- Professionalism:
- Demonstrates professional competence in women’s and children’s rights, the rule of law, and an understanding of related national, regional, and international policies.
- Demonstrates knowledge of the program management cycle, including monitoring, reporting, and evaluation.
- Ability to identify and contribute to solutions for communication and media-related challenges with persistence and dedication.
- Efficient in meeting deadlines, ensuring high-quality results, and maintaining professionalism at all times.
- Teamwork:
- Ability to work effectively with colleagues across FIDA Nigeria to achieve organizational goals.
- Willingness to actively solicit input from others and value the contributions of all team members.
- Flexibility in learning from others and supporting team decisions.
- Planning & Organizing:
- Ability to set clear priorities and manage multiple tasks while coordinating with other team members and stakeholders.
- Foresight to anticipate potential risks or challenges and make contingency plans accordingly.
- Communication:
- Ability to write clearly, concisely, and compellingly for various audiences, including the preparation of detailed reports, briefs, and presentations.
- Capacity to present issues in a clear and concise manner, articulating options, conveying essential information, and making recommendations with confidence.
Qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication, Social Sciences, Arts, or related field.
- A minimum of three (3) years of relevant work experience in communications, social media management, content creation, or related areas.
- Proficiency in graphic design software such as Canva, InDesign, Photoshop, or CorelDraw.
- Photography skills are highly desirable.
- Knowledge of WordPress for website management, including maintenance, traffic monitoring, and performance analysis.
- Strong oral and written communication skills with a creative flair for engaging audiences.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a diverse team across various locations, respecting different perspectives and ideas.
- Confidence and enthusiasm in both formal and informal communication with external partners and internal teams.
- Passion for social change, with an interest in gender equality, human rights, social justice, and civic engagement.
- Exceptional professionalism, strong follow-through, and excellent interpersonal skills.
- Personal qualities of humility, self-reflection, and a good sense of humor are a plus.
- Willingness to travel within and outside Nigeria as needed.
Application Instructions:
Qualified candidates are invited to send their Curriculum Vitae and application, addressed to the Country Vice-President/National President, to hr@fida.org.ng.
The subject of the e-mail should be “Application for Assistant Communication Officer”.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Deadline 20th Sept 2024
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Pays Courtesy Visit to Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan to Strengthen Collaboration for Women’s and Children’s Rights
Elevating Impact Through Strategic Partnerships!
Earlier today, FIDA Nigeria, under the leadership of our visionary Country Vice/National President, Amina Suzanah Agbaje, engaged in a meaningful dialogue with Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan of Kogi Central.
Our visit aimed to explore collaboration opportunities, strengthen our alliance, and advance the rights of vulnerable women and children. Together, we’re dedicated to amplifying our shared goals and driving impactful change.
FIDAForChange #WomenInLeadership #PowerOfPartnerships
by FIDAFIDA NIGERIA ENGAGES GOVERNMENT, TRADITIONAL, AND RELIGIOUS LEADERS TO STRENGTHEN GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE PREVENTION MECHANISMS IN PLATEAU, EKITI, AND LAGOS STATES
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, with support from the Ford Foundation, has launched a significant new initiative aimed at strengthening gender-based violence (GBV) prevention mechanisms in Plateau, Ekiti, and Lagos States. This initiative is under the auspices of the “Engagement, Coordination, and Sharing of Lessons on GBV Prevention between Religious, Traditional, and Government Leaders in Nigeria” project. This three-year intervention is expected to commence in July 2024 and culminate in June 2027.
Mrs. Amina Suzanah Agbaje, Country President of FIDA Nigeria, in a statement disseminated to the press, informed Nigerians that this initiative will work closely with key community gatekeepers, including traditional leaders, relevant state actors, religious leaders, and male champions, to institutionalize structures for preventing gender-based violence. Through a five-pronged approach and interconnected intervention areas, this initiative will focus on addressing religious and cultural barriers that impede the functionality of gender-sensitive legal frameworks on preventing gender-based violence, enhancing collaboration and coordination among relevant actors and gatekeepers through a series of dialogues and shared learning forums, while documenting lessons, amplifying successes, and evolving strategies for preventing gender-based violence.
Lending credence to the aforementioned statement, the National Program Manager, FIDA Nigeria, alluded to the preventive approach the organization intends to implement as it aims to accelerate changes in attitudinal behaviors and abandon social and cultural norms that undermine the rights of women and girls in Plateau (North Central), Lagos, and Ekiti (South-West) States.
Mr. Fikih Obaro further emphasized the crucial role of traditional and faith leaders in preventing gender-based violence due to their knowledge of local contexts and their understanding of the predisposing factors and practices that perpetuate GBV. He highlighted the primary goals of the project, which include:
• Engaging traditional and faith leaders from target communities as agents of change and advocates for women and girls.
• Providing platforms for cohesion between governments, traditional, and religious leaders in addressing and preventing Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) through shared understanding.
• Developing a cohort of gatekeepers who will reject social norms and practices that subjugate the rights of women.
• Offering stock-taking, shared learnings, and collaborative platforms among beneficiaries to prevent gender-based violence.
In conclusion, the Country Vice/National President, Mrs. Amina Suzanah Agbaje, encouraged the public to support efforts to eliminate all forms of gender-based violence in local communities across Nigeria. She also invited everyone to follow FIDA Nigeria’s activities related to this project on social media:
• Facebook: @fidanig
• X (Twitter): @fidanigeria
• Instagram: fida.nigeria
• Website: www.fida.org.ng
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
God bless FIDA Nigeria
Amina Suzanah Agbaje (Mrs)
Country Vice /National President
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Hosts Impactful Side Event at NBA AGC 2024
On Tuesday, 27th August 2024, FIDA Nigeria held a highly enlightening, insightful and interactive and Side Event at the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference 2024 which held at the Muson Center in Lagos, with discussions focused on the theme: “Pressing Forward: Achieving Enhanced Institutional Structures for Women and Children’s Rights in Nigeria.”
In her Opening Remarks, the Country Vice/National President of FIDA Nigeria emphasized the significance of this platform for fostering meaningful discussions, sharing experiences and crafting strategies to advance the rights of women and children in Nigeria.
Discussants focused on key areas which included the following:
- Strengthening legal frameworks and policy implementation
- Building institutional capacity
- Engaging communities and raising awareness
- Enhancing data collection and research, and
- Tackling specific challenges in these areas
With a beautiful relaxing ambiance the event flowed seamlessly with Highlights which included:*
- A compelling short documentary about FIDA Nigeria through the ages titled “Voice for Women and Children” projecting her accomplishments through her 60 years of existence in Nigeria
- A powerful plenary session featuring notable panelists like Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, Prof. (CHIEF) Mike Ozekhome SAN., and Hon Olivia Dazyam, moderated by a strong heforshe champion Mr. Alex Umoaka Esq.
Notable Attendees:
The event was graced by a distinguished lineup of guests, including:
- Country Vice/National President of FIDA Nigeria and National Executive members Evelyn Membere Asimea, Eliana Martins and Olubunmi, Niyi Arajuwa
- Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN, OON, the 31st President of the Nigerian Bar Association gave a wonderful goodwill message appreciating FIDA and her members for their support
- Chief Tessa Ikimi, the Ajumota of Warri Kingdom, 7th President of FIDA Nigeria, and current BOT Chair of FIDA Nigeria presented appreciation Plaques to the distinguished panelists
- Hon. Justice Elsie Thompson, the 10th National President of FIDA Nigeria and a current member of the FIDA Nigeria Board of Trustees
- Chief Mrs Victoria Awomolo SAN, Past FIDA African Regional President (Africa) and current FIDA International United Nations Representative, Hon. Inime Aguma
- Mrs. Oyinkan Badero-Okusanya, Chair of the Nigeria Bar 2024 Annual General Conference Planning Committee
- Distinguished Senator Daisy Danjuma, represented by an equally esteemed personality also supported the event
- Muyiwa Akinboro, SAN
It was a gathering of great minds and passionate advocates, united in the mission to press forward for the rights of women and children in Nigeria.
FIDA #WomenAndChildrenRights #NBAAGC2024 #Empowerment #Justice
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Press Statement on World Day against Trafficking in Persons
Theme: Leave No Child Behind in the Fight against Human Trafficking
In staunch solidarity, FIDA Nigeria stands with the global community on this World Day against Trafficking in Persons to raise awareness and take decisive and accelerated action against the horrific crime of human trafficking. This year’s theme, “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight against Human Trafficking,” underscores the urgent need to protect the most vulnerable among us, our children.
According to the UNODC Global Report on Trafficking in Persons, one in three victims of human trafficking globally, is a child and the majority of these trafficked children are girls. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and targeted measures to safeguard our children from falling prey to traffickers. Children, with their inherent vulnerability, are exploited for forced labor, sexual slavery, and other forms of abuse, robbing them of their childhood, dignity, and overall future.
The impact of human trafficking on women and children is devastating. Women often trafficked for sexual exploitation, endure unimaginable physical and psychological trauma. Stripped of their autonomy and subjected to violence, they are forced into situations of extreme degradation. For children, the situation is equally harrowing. They are not only exploited but also denied their fundamental rights to education, health, and a safe environment. These young victims are often coerced into child labor, domestic servitude, or forced begging, suffering severe emotional and psychological scars that can last a lifetime. This vicious cycle of trauma and exploitation perpetuates poverty, destabilizes families, and undermines the social fabric of communities.
In Nigeria, the situation is alarming. Many children are trafficked within and across our borders, subjected to forced labor in domestic servitude, street begging, and the worst forms of child labor. The trafficking of women and children is not only a violation of human rights but also a severe impediment to national development. It destabilizes families and communities, perpetuates poverty, and severely undermines the rule of law.
Grounded upon its core vision of protection, preservation and promotion of the rights of women and children through ensuring accessible justice particularly to the indigent and vulnerable, FIDA is deeply committed to the fight against human trafficking. Through our legal aid services, dogged advocacy, and community outreach programs, FIDA works tirelessly to provide support to victims, raise awareness about the dangers of trafficking, and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to create a robust legal and social framework to combat this horrific menace.
FIDA Nigeria makes a concerted call on the Government, Law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, private sector and the international community to intensify efforts to prevent human trafficking, protect victims, and prosecute perpetrators. Urgent and comprehensive action in this regard is non negotiable in order to tackle this nefarious situation. Government must as a matter of urgency, prioritise child protection, improve law enforcement and allocate more resources to combat trafficking. It is imperative to strengthen our laws, enhance cross-border cooperation, and provide adequate resources for the rehabilitation and reintegration of victims.
FIDA remains resolute in this fight and re-affirms its commitment to leaving no child behind. We strongly push for the implementation of child sensitive justice mechanisms and will continue to advocate for strengthened laws against trafficking, provide support to victims and work tirelessly for a world where human trafficking is eradicated. Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, free from exploitation and abuse.
Together, we can build a society where the rights and dignity of every individual, especially women and children are upheld and where the vulnerable in our society are protected from exploitation.
EndHumanTrafficking #LeaveNoChildBehind #WorldDayAgainstTraffickingInPersons #July30 #justiceforall #FIDANigeria
FOR: FIDA NIGERIA
Signed
Amina Suzanah Agbaje (Mrs.)
Country Vice President/ National President
FIDA Nigeria