by FIDAInternational Day for the Elimination of Trafficking in Persons 2026
Trapped Behind the Scam: FIDA Nigeria Calls for Better Protection for Victims of Human Trafficking
The face of Human Trafficking is changing. Today, many traffickers no longer rely only on physical movement or false promises of work. Instead, they use the internet, social media, and online platforms to trap people through fake job offers, fake business opportunities, scholarship promises, romance scams, and false travel arrangements.
This year’s theme, “Trapped Behind the Scam,” shines a light on a growing problem. Many victims are tricked into taking part in online financial crimes against their will. From the outside, they may look like criminals, but in reality, they are victims who have been deceived, threatened, and forced into these activities.
At FIDA Nigeria, we believe this entrapment is not only a serious human rights abuse, but also a threat to justice. People who are forced into crime should be recognised as victims, while those who recruit, control, and profit from them should be held responsible.
Around the world, criminal groups are using technology to target vulnerable people. They lure victims with fake employment, investment opportunities, scholarship offers, romantic relationships, or promises of a better life abroad.
Once victims are trapped, they may be forced into money laundering, or to run online scams, move stolen money, create fake financial accounts, steal personal information, or recruit other victims. Many are threatened, abused, watched constantly, have their identity documents taken away, or are trapped by debts they can never repay.
Too often, when the authorities step in, these victims are arrested and treated like criminals instead of being identified as people who were forced into these acts.
Nigeria has laws that make human trafficking a crime and provide protection and support for victims. These laws are meant to ensure that traffickers are investigated and punished while survivors receive the help they need to recover and rebuild their lives.
FIDA Nigeria believes one principle must always guide the response: cases of people who unknowingly were forced into criminal activities because they were trafficked should be properly investigated before any form of punishment is meted out for such actions. Most victims should not be prosecuted, but rather, should be shielded and protected. Because the real criminals are the people who planned, organised, and fully benefited from the exploitation.
This form of trafficking is becoming more complex. It is closely linked to cybercrime, financial fraud, identity theft, corruption, and organised crime. Criminal groups continue to adapt by using new technologies while taking advantage of poverty, unemployment, conflict, displacement, and people’s hopes for better opportunities.
Women and girls remain especially at risk. Many are forced to operate fake online accounts, help move stolen money, take part in investment scams, or recruit other victims after being threatened with harm to themselves or their families.
Children and young people are also increasingly being targeted through social media and online platforms that appear genuine and trustworthy.
Every person deserves to be treated with dignity. Human trafficking strips people of that dignity by turning them into tools for making money through crime. Protecting victims and bringing traffickers to justice is both a legal duty and a moral responsibility.
FIDA Nigeria is calling for stronger action to ensure victims are identified early and treated with care throughout the justice process. Police officers, investigators, prosecutors, and judges need better training to recognise when someone involved in cybercrime or financial fraud may actually be a victim of trafficking.
Investigations should focus on breaking up the criminal networks behind these crimes instead of concentrating only on those who were forced to carry them out.
We also call for closer cooperation among agencies such as NAPTIP, the Nigeria Police Force, the EFCC, the Nigeria Immigration Service, the courts, prosecutors, and financial intelligence agencies. Because these crimes often cross national borders, countries must work together to share information, trace illegal money, recover stolen assets, and bring traffickers to justice.
Survivors need more than rescue. They should have access to legal support, counselling, protection, compensation, rehabilitation, and opportunities to rebuild their lives safely and with dignity.
For many years, FIDA Nigeria has worked to protect the rights of women, children, and other vulnerable people through free legal services, advocacy, public education, and law reform. We remain committed to working with government agencies, civil society organisations, the legal profession, and international partners to strengthen justice and ensure survivors receive the protection and support they deserve.
Human traffickers continue to change the way they operate. Nigeria’s response must change even faster.
People who are forced into criminal activities deserve protection—not punishment. Those who deceive, exploit, threaten, and profit from human trafficking must face the full force of the law.
FIDA Nigeria will continue to advocate for stronger laws, better partnerships, and a justice system that puts survivors first until this becomes a reality.
Signed
FIDA Nigeria
30 July 2026
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Celebrates Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, as the President Elect of the Nigerian Bar Association
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA Nigeria) warmly congratulates Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, on her election as the *33rd President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)**.
Your election stands as a remarkable achievement and reflects the confidence of the legal profession in your distinguished record and unwavering committment to professional excellence.
It is a defining milestone for the NBA and a powerful affirmation of the growing impact of women in leadership within the legal profession.
Your emergence as NBA President will inspire women and young lawyers across Nigeria, reinforcing that excellence, competence, and dedication remain the foundation of true leadership.
FIDA Nigeria is confident that your tenure will strengthen the NBA’s commitment to the rule of law.
We also look forward to working with your administration to advance our shared commitment to justice, equity, inclusion, and the protection of fundamental rights.
Signed
FIDA Nigeria
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (Nigeria)
by FIDAFrom Deliberation to Action: FIDA Nigeria Concludes Q2 2026 NEC Meeting with Renewed Commitment
After days of National Executive Council meetings in Abuja, FIDA Nigeria members sat down for a semi-formal dinner—not to close a chapter, but to look ahead to what comes next.
Addressing members, the Country Vice President, Mrs. Eliana Martins, challenged every branch to return home renewed in purpose and united in vision. Her message was clear: the decisions made in Abuja must translate into stronger legal aid, bolder advocacy, and greater protection for the rights of women, children, and other vulnerable persons across Nigeria.
That is where the real measure of this gathering begins.
Every conversation. Every resolution. Every commitment now belongs in our communities, our courts, and every space where justice is needed.
The next quarter starts now.
#FIDANigeria #NEC2026
by FIDATurning Strategy into Impact: FIDA Nigeria Reviews Progress on Its 2026–2031 Strategic Plan
Plans only matter when they change lives.
At FIDA Nigeria’s 2nd Quarter NEC Meeting 2026, members assessed the implementation of the 2026–2031 Strategic Plan and confronted a simple question: How do we reach more women and children who need justice now?
The answer includes stronger shelter services, practical support for survivors, and legal aid that doesn’t stop at the courtroom.
#FIDANigeria #NECMeeting2026
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Celebrates Unity in Diversity at Q2 2026 NEC Cultural Night
Nigeria’s diversity was on full display at the FIDA Nigeria 2026 Second Quarter NEC Cultural Night in Abuja, where members proudly celebrated the traditions and cultures that make our nation unique.
Dressed in colourful traditional attire and representing different ethnic backgrounds, members came together in a vibrant celebration of our shared heritage and common purpose.
As cultures met in celebration, so did a shared commitment to advancing the rights of women, children, and other vulnerable persons. It was a fitting reflection of an organization that draws strength from the many cultures and communities it represents.
Our differences do not divide us; they strengthen us. They bring fresh perspectives, stronger partnerships, and a shared resolve to keep building a more just and inclusive Nigeria.
#FIDANigeria #NEC2026 #CulturalNight #UnityInDiversity #WomensRights
by FIDABuilding an Inclusive Democracy: FIDA Nigeria’s CLE Session Advances Women’s Representation in Governance
What does it take to build a democracy where women don’t just vote—but help shape the decisions that govern everyone?
That question was at the heart of the Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Session at FIDA Nigeria’s 2nd Quarter NEC Meeting 2026, which focused on “Strengthening Women’s Representation in Democratic Governance: Law, Policy and Practice.”
Moderated by Dr. Ozioma Izuora, the session brought together Dr. Boma Tonye Miebai, Zainab Bello Aliyu, and Oluwakemi Omeiza-Usman for a candid conversation on breaking systemic barriers, strengthening legal and policy frameworks, and creating real pathways for more women to participate in leadership and governance.
The message was unmistakable: meaningful representation doesn’t happen by chance. It requires deliberate laws, bold policy reforms, sustained advocacy, and collective action.
Because when women help shape decisions, democracy becomes more inclusive, more responsive, and stronger for everyone.
What practical steps do you believe Nigeria must take to ensure more women lead where it matters most?
#FIDANigeria #NECMeeting2026
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Opens Q2 2026 NEC Meeting with Call to Strengthen Women’s Representation in Democratic Governance
The Opening Ceremony of the FIDA Nigeria Second Quarter 2026 National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting opened an important conversation about the place of women in Nigeria’s democratic process—and what it will take to ensure they are fully represented where decisions are made.
Held under the theme, “Strengthening Women’s Representation in Democratic Governance: Law, Policy and Practice,” the ceremony brought together members of the judiciary, legal practitioners, development partners and other stakeholders committed to advancing reforms that strengthen women’s participation in governance.
In her welcome address, FIDA Nigeria’s Country Vice President/National President, Mrs. Eliana Martins, reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to promoting legal, institutional and policy reforms that expand opportunities for women to participate in leadership and public decision-making.
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Amb. Nkoyo Esu Toyo called for sustained legislative reforms, stronger institutions and coordinated action to address the barriers that continue to limit women’s political participation in Nigeria.
The ceremony was graced by the Chairman, Hon. Justice Husseini Baba Yusuf, Chief Judge of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory; Her Excellency, Hon. Justice Suzette Eberechi Nyesom Wike, JCA, Matron of FIDA Abuja Branch; Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor, FIDA International President; Mr. Jibrin Samuel Okutepa, SAN, Patron of FIDA Abuja Branch; Ms. Ebere Ifendu, President of the Women in Politics Forum; CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, PhD, Commissioner of Police, FCT Command; alongside other distinguished guests whose presence underscored the importance of advancing inclusive governance.
Women’s representation is not simply about increasing numbers. It is about ensuring that the policies and decisions shaping Nigeria reflect the experiences, perspectives and aspirations of all its people.
#FIDANigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Kicks Off Q2 2026 NEC Meeting with Welcome Cocktail in Abuja
The FIDA Nigeria Q2 2026 NEC Welcome Cocktail in Abuja brought members together for an evening of fellowship, reconnection, and renewed commitment ahead of the important conversations to come.
The Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko, welcomed members and guests, setting the tone for an evening of connection and fellowship. The Country Vice President, Eliana Martins, encouraged members to reconnect, strengthen the bonds of sisterhood, and commended their unwavering dedication to advancing the rights of women, children, and vulnerable persons across Nigeria.
The evening was graced by FIDA Nigeria President, Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor, SAN, and Chief Mrs. Victoria Awomolo, SAN, whose presence added to the significance of the gathering.
Old friends reunited, new connections were made, and members from across the country came together with one purpose—to begin the NEC meeting as one family, ready for the conversations and decisions ahead.
Abuja set the stage. The work begins
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Calls for Urgent Action to Protect Women and Children
The rising threats facing women and children demand more than concern. They demand action!
At the press conference marking the opening of FIDA Nigeria’s Second Quarter National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting, Country Vice President Eliana Martins highlighted growing concerns over insecurity, gender-based violence, child abuse, trafficking and the economic pressures exposing vulnerable populations to exploitation.
FIDA Nigeria called for stronger protection systems, safer learning environments, enhanced access to justice and targeted social support to safeguard the rights, dignity and well-being of women and children across Nigeria.
#FIDANigeria #Q2NECMeeting
by FIDAWorld Day Against Child Labour 2026 Theme: “Red Card to Child Labour: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults”
Every child carrying bricks instead of books is evidence of a promise broken.
Across Nigeria today, millions of children are trapped in labour when they should be learning, playing, and preparing for the future. Behind every statistic is a child whose dreams are being delayed, diminished, or denied altogether. A child selling goods under the scorching sun, working long hours in farms, markets, workshops, mines, or on the streets is not demonstrating resilience; that child is being failed by systems that were designed to protect them.
As the world marks the 2026 World Day Against Child Labour, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria joins the global call to show a red card to child labour and demand a society where every child enjoys the right to education, protection, dignity, and opportunity.
The reality before us is deeply troubling. According to the Nigeria Child Labour Survey 2022 conducted by the National Bureau of Statistics in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, approximately 24.7 million Nigerian children between the ages of 5 and 17 are engaged in child labour, while about 14.4 million are involved in hazardous work that threatens their health, safety, education, and overall development. These figures underscore the scale of the challenge and the urgency of sustained action to protect every child’s right to a safe, healthy, and productive childhood.
Child labour remains one of the most visible manifestations of poverty, inequality, weak social protection systems, and inadequate enforcement of child protection laws. Many families facing severe economic hardship are forced into impossible choices, while children bear the consequences. Yet poverty can never be accepted as justification for exposing children to exploitation, hazardous work, abuse, or conditions that rob them of their childhood and future.
Nigeria has already made clear legal and policy commitments. The Child Rights Act 2003 guarantees the protection, survival, development, and best interests of every child. The Labour Act establishes safeguards regarding the employment of children and young persons. Nigeria has also ratified the International Labour Organization Convention No. 138 on Minimum Age for Employment and Convention No. 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour, affirming its commitment to eliminating child labour in all its forms.
The challenge before us is no longer the absence of laws. It is the gap between commitment and implementation. It is the persistent gap between commitment and implementation, between promises made and protections delivered.
Far too many children remain exposed to hazardous labour, trafficking, exploitation, and other violations despite these protections. This demands stronger coordination and enforcement by relevant institutions, including the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), state governments, law enforcement agencies, and child protection authorities across the country.
FIDA Nigeria therefore calls for urgent and measurable action:
• The Federal Government must strengthen implementation of national child labour elimination strategies, expand social protection programmes for vulnerable families, and increase resources for labour inspections and child protection systems.
• State Governments must fully domesticate and effectively implement the Child Rights Act where gaps remain, while ensuring functional child protection mechanisms at state and local government levels.
• Employers and the Private Sector must conduct due diligence across their supply chains and adopt zero-tolerance policies against child labour in all forms.
• Communities, traditional institutions, religious leaders, and parents must actively report cases of child labour, trafficking, and exploitation and prioritize children’s education and wellbeing.
• Law enforcement and regulatory agencies must ensure that violators face swift investigation, prosecution, and appropriate sanctions.
A nation cannot build sustainable development on the backs of children whose rights are being denied. Every child withdrawn from school to work represents not only an individual tragedy but also a collective loss for Nigeria’s future.
On this World Day Against Child Labour, FIDA Nigeria reaffirms its unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of every child and advancing a Nigeria where no child’s future is sacrificed to poverty, exploitation, or neglect.
The choice before us is clear: either we protect children now, or we pay the price of failed potential for generations to come.
Children belong in classrooms, not worksites. Their hands should hold books, not burdens.
Signed
Country Vice President/National President
FIDA Nigeria
