by FIDA

PRESS STATEMENT BY FIDA NIGERIA ON THE COMMEMORATION OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2025

Theme: For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment

How much longer must the Nigerian woman and girl child wait for equity and justice; for inclusion and Equal Opportunities? Women and Girls are more than deserving of justice, equality, and empowerment.

On this International Women’s Day 2025, FIDA Nigeria raises a clarion call to great action; Women Arise, Accelerate Action!!!

We stand in unwavering solidarity with women and girls across the nation focused on the theme :- For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment is not just a slogan—it is an urgent demand to end systemic oppression, injustice, and discrimination.

Yet our tragic reality is – A Nation Failing Its Women!! Even though the Nigerian Constitution (under Section 42 (1)) guarantees freedom from discrimination, women are still denied equal opportunities in political representation, inheritance rights, and employment; while necessary qualifications and merit is being thrown out the window to allow for patriarchal sentiments, stereotyping, nepotism, tribalism and indigeneship.

Though the National Gender Policy (2006) prescribes 35% affirmative action for women in leadership, yet it is looked at as a toothless bulldog being that women occupy less than 6% of elective positions, a blatant disregard for gender inclusivity.

Accordingly, across Nigeria, millions of women and girls continue to face gender-based violence, economic deprivation, and systematic discrimination and exclusion. The National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), confirms that 31% of Nigerian women aged between 15-49 years have experienced physical violence, yet only 1 in 3 victims seek help, with many unable to access justice due to stigma, fear, and institutional barriers.

Nigeria remains one of the top 10 countries with the highest rates of child marriage, with the United Nations reporting that over 44% of girls are married before the age of 18, robbing them of their bright future and exposing them to unimaginable suffering and deprivation.

While we note that Legal Protections Exist, however Justice Remains Most Elusive to the Average woman. This is despite Nigeria’s commitment to international frameworks such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Maputo Protocol, implementation remains a mirage.

The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) 2015 has not been domesticated in all states, leaving many women unprotected. While the Child Rights Act 2003, meant to safeguard young girls from early and forced marriages, is yet to be fully implemented across the country, allowing archaic traditions and beliefs to continue violating children’s rights.

FIDA Nigeria says Enough is Enough! Women Arise! Let’s Accelerate Action, for ALL Women and Girls: For the Promotion, Protection, Preservation of Rights; For Equality & Empowerment!

We stand as the Legal Voice for Women and Girls and remain the beacon of hope for women facing all forms of injustice. Through our free legal aid services, we have provided legal representation to over 15,000 indigent women and girls in the past year alone. We have championed strategic litigation to challenge discriminatory laws and practices, ensuring that perpetrators of gender-based violence and sexual exploitation are held accountable.

We continue to advocate for the full domestication and enforcement of the VAPP Act, the Child Rights Act, and the National Gender Policy. Our grassroots sensitization programs have educated thousands of women on their legal rights, empowering them to speak up against oppression.

Enough is Enough: we Call for Action as we demand urgent, concrete actions to protect and promote the rights of women and girls in Nigeria:

Women Arise and let us work together, mentor and support each other; likewise we encourage HeForShe champions to join us in addressing some of these issues for the betterment of society

The Federal and State Governments must prioritize gender-responsive policies and ensure the full implementation of existing legal frameworks. While State Assemblies must urgently domesticate the VAPP Act and Child Rights Act to guarantee legal protections for all Nigerian women and girls.

Additionally, Law enforcement agencies must ensure swift and unbiased prosecution of gender-based violence cases, removing the barriers that hinder victims from seeking justice.

Even the private sector has a role to play as they must enforce equal pay policies, eliminate workplace harassment, and create inclusive environments where women can thrive.

The Nigerian society must collectively reject harmful traditional practices that sustain gender inequality and violence against women. Let’s change the narrative and portray strong women in better light because we know that Women’s involvement will lead to better policies on issues concerning society especially in the areas of poverty reduction, family welfare, health care and education.

The culture of endurance and silence, must abate, while parity and
and empowerment become non non-negotiable. We refuse to let another generation of girls grow up in fear, oppression, and deprivation. As an unwavering legal shield, FIDA stands for every Nigerian woman and girl; We will not rest until justice prevails across board!

For ALL Women and Girls, we demand RIGHTS. We demand EQUALITY. We demand EMPOWERMENT. And we will not stop until we achieve it.

Happy International Women’s Day!

AccelerateAction #FIDAForJustice #IWD2025 #EndGenderInequality

Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria

Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria

by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria Hosts Annual Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue in Plateau State to Strengthen Efforts Against GBV

FIDA Nigeria is currently hosting its Annual Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue in Plateau State, bringing together key stakeholders from government, traditional and religious institutions, civil society, and the media. This critical engagement provides a platform for assessing the implementation of gender-sensitive laws designed to prevent Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), and Violence Against Children (VAC).

Discussions at the dialogue highlight the urgent need for stronger policy enforcement, enhanced collaboration among stakeholders, increased accountability, and strategic legal reforms. Additionally, media-driven advocacy is being recognized as a powerful tool for raising awareness and driving policy changes.

With a shared commitment to eradicating GBV in all its forms, participants are identifying concrete steps to address gaps in existing frameworks and reinforce collective efforts toward a safer and more just society.

Stay tuned for more updates on the outcomes of this crucial dialogue.

FIDANigeria #EndGBV #MultiStakeholderDialogue

by FIDA

FIDA NIGERIA URGES A PROMPT INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION OF THE ALLEGED SEXUAL HARASSMENT CLAIM IN THE SENATE

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is deeply concerned by the recent allegation of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against the Senate President: Godswill Akpabio.

While this remains an allegation, it is a serious and weighty claim which warrants immediate, impartial, and thorough investigation. If proven, it would represent a disturbing abuse of power and a direct assault on the dignity and rights of women in leadership, governance, and decision-making positions.

Sexual Harassment within the corridors of power is more than a personal violation—it is an attack on gender equality, a sexual gender-based violence, a betrayal of public trust and confidence and indeed a stain on the integrity of governance. It fosters a toxic culture, where women in leadership are subjected to intimidation, coercion, harassment, abuse, and discrimination—barriers that have long hindered female participation in politics, governance, and decision-making.

FIDA Nigeria unequivocally condemns any form of intimidation and harassment; and calls for swift and expeditious action to ensure that such
injustice where found, does not go unpunished by way of prosecution to serve as a stern warning and deterrence against such threats and acts.

This issue transcends politics. It is about law, justice, and fundamental human rights. The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria guarantees every citizen the right to dignity (Section 34) and freedom from any form of discrimination (Section 42). The combination of the provisions of The Administration of Criminal Justice Act, Criminal Code Act, Penal Code Act, and The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) 2015, explicitly criminalizes sexual harassment, intimidation and abuse of authority. Nigeria is also bound by its obligations under international
law: including but not limited to The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), which mandates proactive measures to combat sexual harassment in all sectors.

The gravity of this allegation requires more than a public outcry. It demands decisive and accelerated action. What is more worrisome is that the allegation is coming from the Legislative Arm of the Government: a body principally charged with the responsibility of making laws for the entire country. It is very disturbing that the allegation is against the head of the third arm of the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in the time and age that the global community avoids such acts like
the plague.

FIDA Nigeria calls for an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation of Senator Akpoti’s allegation to establish the truth and ensure accountability. Silence or inaction will only embolden perpetrators and deter victims from speaking out. We must be able to restore confidence and respect for our government in the minds of the citizens. This will be lacking if the allegation is not objectively investigated and the report is made public. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. Power should never be a shield for misconduct, nor should any woman be subjected to any form of harassment – whether in politics or the workplace or indeed in any sphere of the
society.

We also emphasize the need for protection against retaliation, ensuring that any woman who speaks out does not face intimidation, political persecution, or career setbacks. Women must be afforded the leeway and platforms to speak out their truth without fear of backlash or persecution.

This moment must serve as a turning point in addressing the systemic barriers that discourage women from holding leadership positions.

We, therefore, once again, call for the full implementation of the 35% affirmative action for women in governance to move beyond rhetorics to
reality. We must create a political and institutional environment where no woman is forced to choose between her dignity and her ambition. Women must be given room to render bold and courageous service to the country.

FIDA Nigeria stands firm in its zero-tolerance against all forms of abuse and gender-based violence. We urge all relevant authorities, civil society organizations, the legal community, and the public to stand together in demanding justice, accountability, and a safer Nigeria for women. Every woman, irrespective of her status, deserves to be protected and free from all forms of oppression, harassment, intimidation, abuse, and violence.
Justice must prevail. The time for action is now!
#AccelerateActionsNow.

SIGNED
for: FIDA Nigeria

Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria

Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria

by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria Holds Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on the Status Of Gender-Sensitive Legislations in Lagos State

With support from the Ford Foundation, FIDA Nigeria is convening a Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue to assess the implementation of gender-sensitive legislations preventing Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).

In her welcome address, the Country Vice President/National President emphasized the need for stronger enforcement of laws such as the VAPP Act 2015, Child Rights Act 2003, Anti-Torture Act 2017, and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015.

This dialogue brings together religious, traditional, and government leaders to discuss barriers to implementation, strengthen accountability, and enhance protection for women and girls.

We appreciate our partners and stakeholders for their commitment to ending GBV and building a safer society for all.

by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch Commemorates World Day of Social Justice 2025

In solidarity with the global community, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, commemorates the World Day of Social Justice, observed annually on the 20th of February.

This year’s theme is Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps for Social Justice.

As recognized by the World Summit, social development aims at fostering social justice, solidarity, harmony, and equality within and among countries. Equality and equity are the fundamental values that uphold all societies. This aligns with the mission of FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, which strives to promote, protect, and preserve the rights, interests, and well-being of women and children. We use the legal framework to ensure that women and children live free from all forms of discrimination, violence, and abuse in society.

FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, therefore calls for more inclusive policies and actions that aim to reduce inequalities, restore human dignity, and promote sustainable development—especially for marginalized Nigerian women and children. It is time to bridge the gaps that divide us.

FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch wishes everyone a meaningful and impactful World Day of Social Justice.

Signed:
Tamunoibuemi Life-George
Chairperson, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch

by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria at the House of Representatives Public Hearing!

FIDA Nigeria joined key stakeholders and policymakers at the House of Representatives for a one-day public hearing on two critical bills:

✅Amendment of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015 – seeking to increase penalties for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and related offences.

✅ Provision for Widowhood Leave – advocating for dedicated leave to support widows and widowers in mourning and making immediate arrangements for life after loss.
These bills are crucial steps towards strengthening legal protections for women, ensuring gender equality, and promoting social justice. FIDA Nigeria remains committed to legal reforms that uphold the rights, dignity, and well-being of women and children in Nigeria.

Representing FIDA Nigeria at the hearing were the National Secretary, Mrs. Rekia Rachael Adejo-Andrew; Assistant Manager, Legal Services & Shelter Administration, Mariam O. Omeiza; and Legal Services, Shelter Administration & Human Resources Officer, Rahila Dauda.

fidanigeria

by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria Press Statement on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation

Theme: Stepping up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM

Nigeria is among the countries with the highest prevalence of FGM! According to the United Nations, Nigeria ranks third globally for FGM cases, with nearly 19.9 million survivors. The 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) reveals that 20% of women aged 15-49 have undergone FGM, with particularly high rates in the South East (35%), South West (30%), and South-South (24%) regions

Therefore as we commemorate the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), FIDA Nigeria reaffirms its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and well-being of every girl and woman. FGM is not only a harmful traditional practice but also a gross violation of human rights that causes profound physical, psychological, and social harm. This cruel practice must be eradicated in all its forms.

Key Nigerian laws which explicitly prohibit FGM, include:

✅ The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015 (VAPP Act) – Section 6 criminalizes FGM and imposes strict penalties for offenders.

✅ The Child Rights Act, 2003 – Sections 11 and 21 prohibit harmful traditional practices that threaten children’s health and rights.

✅ State Laws – Some states, such as Lagos, Ekiti, Ebonyi, and Osun, have enacted specific laws banning FGM, though enforcement remains a significant challenge.

We must ensure the implementation of these laws for the benefit of girls and women. FGM has no health benefits and only serves to rob girls and women of their autonomy, safety, and dignity.

Alarmingly however, the practice of medicalized FGM is on the rise, where healthcare providers perform FGM under the false guise of safety. This is a clear violation of medical ethics as there is no form of FGM that is safe, acceptable, or justified.

The theme for this year, emphasizes the critical need for collaboration and action at all levels to eradicate this practice.

FIDA Nigeria therefore calls upon all stakeholders to take decisive steps in the fight against FGM:

• Law Enforcement Agencies must rigorously enforce anti-FGM laws, prosecute offenders, and provide justice for survivors.
• Traditional and Religious Leaders should publicly denounce FGM and dismantle the harmful myths that perpetuate it.
• Healthcare Professionals must refuse to participate in FGM and report any cases where it is being practiced.
• Civil Society Organizations must continue to raise awareness, engage communities, and create safe spaces for survivors.
• The Government must prioritize the elimination of FGM by allocating resources, strengthening enforcement, and implementing sustainable intervention programs.

We cannot afford to relent in the fight against this practice. For every girl at risk, for every survivor in pain, and for the millions still vulnerable to this form of gender-based violence—

FIDA Nigeria remains resolute in its advocacy, intervention, and legal action to ensure that no more girls suffer from this injustice.

The time to act is NOW. Not another girl. Not another cut. Not another stolen future.

Signed:

FIDA Nigeria
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria

Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria

EndFGM #ZeroTolerance #ProtectOurGirls

by FIDA

FIDA Abuja Advocates Media Partnership to Strengthen Protection of Women and Children’s Rights

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Abuja Branch, has called for strengthened collaboration with the media to enhance the protection of women and children’s rights. The Chairperson of FIDA Abuja, Barr. Chioma Onyenucheya-Ukoh, made this call during a media parley held in Abuja on Saturday, where she engaged journalists from various media houses alongside members of her executive team.

Addressing the gathering, Onyenucheya-Ukoh lamented the rising cases of defilement of minors and other forms of gender-based violence. She reaffirmed FIDA’s unwavering commitment to providing pro bono (free) legal services to women and children facing injustice.

Highlighting the crucial role of the media in raising awareness and bridging the gap between FIDA and survivors of gender-based violence, she emphasized the need for continued partnership. According to her, “A major challenge in our society is the lack of awareness about legal rights, particularly those protecting women and children. Many infractions occur due to ignorance, which unfortunately is not an excuse under the law. This is why we need the media—to educate the public and amplify the legal provisions that safeguard the rights of vulnerable groups.”

The FIDA Abuja Chairperson further noted that while FIDA has been actively working to defend and empower women and children for over three decades, increased media visibility is essential to ensuring that those in need of legal aid know where to turn for help. She stressed that the media must be intentional in shaping narratives that influence policymakers, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to take meaningful action in protecting women’s and children’s rights.

She also urged journalists to be sensitive and accurate in reporting gender-related stories to avoid reinforcing harmful stereotypes or misrepresenting legal realities. FIDA Abuja, she assured, is always available to provide legal guidance to ensure responsible and informed reporting.

Reaffirming her personal commitment to open communication, Onyenucheya-Ukoh stated: “As Chairperson, I am always available to provide insights on issues within FIDA’s mandate, regardless of the platform. FIDA has a wealth of resources and legal experts who are willing to contribute whenever necessary.

by FIDA

Strengthening Leadership, Strategy, and Well-Being for Greater Impact

FIDA Nigeria Retreat was an impactful journey of learning, reflection, and strategic planning. From leadership insights to mental health awareness, each session strengthened our collective mission for justice and empowerment. Day 2 offered a remarkable platform for meaningful discussions and collaborative growth.

Key Highlights

• Envisioning Strategic Leadership for Impact & Sustainability – Ene Obi, former Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria, set the tone with an inspiring session on visionary leadership and sustainability in the non-profit sector.
• Attracting, Mobilizing, Managing & Diversifying Resources – Nkechi Ilochi Kanny, Director of Resource Mobilization & Innovation at ActionAid Nigeria, shared actionable strategies to enhance funding, partnerships, and organizational growth.
• Mental Health Awareness & Psychological Safety in the Workplace – Dr. Motunrayo Oyelohunnu, Consultant Psychiatrist & Lifestyle Medicine Physician, emphasized the importance of mental well-being in fostering a productive and healthy work environment.
• Shelter Operations & Administration – A crucial discussion on best practices for managing safe spaces for women and children in need.
• Charting Pathways for Success in 2025 – A deep dive into FIDA Nigeria’s strategic roadmap, focusing on new organizational structures, collaboration, and long-term impact.

The day ended on a high note with a Dinner, Games & Appreciation Night, bringing moments of laughter, bonding, and celebration.

As we move forward, we remain steadfast in our commitment to justice, equity, and women’s empowerment.

FIDANigeriaRetreat #Leadership #WomenEmpowerment #AccessToJustice #FIDAAtWork

by FIDA

Strengthening Partnerships, Exploring New Horizons

FIDA Nigeria’s visit to Action Aid Nigeria marked a significant step in growth, continuity, and shared purpose. A key highlight of the meeting was the formal introduction of our newly elected Country Vice President, Mrs. Eliana Martins, a leader dedicated to advancing women’s rights, gender equality, and social justice.

This visit also served as a platform to explore possible areas of further collaboration to amplify our collective impact. The discussions were rich and promising, focusing on:

• Scaling up advocacy against gender-based violence.
• Prioritizing child protection and safeguarding vulnerable children.
• Expanding access to justice for marginalized women.
• Strengthening legal empowerment through capacity-building programs.
• Developing initiatives to foster women’s leadership and socio-economic independence.

This renewed engagement not only reaffirms our partnership with Action Aid Nigeria but also reinforces our shared commitment to addressing critical issues like inequality, human rights violations, and socio-economic barriers that hinder progress.

We remain steadfast in driving meaningful change and creating a future where every woman and child can thrive.

FIDAForChange #StrongerTogether #PartnershipInAction #WomenEmpowerment #ChildProtection #SocialJustice