by FIDAVACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT: FINANCE OFFICER
VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT: FINANCE OFFICER
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is a non-governmental, non-profit and non-political organization committed to the promotion and protection of the rights of women and children through legal aid, advocacy, capacity building, and institutional strengthening.
In line with its commitment to sound financial management, transparency, and donor accountability, FIDA Nigeria invites applications from suitably qualified and motivated candidates to fill the position of Finance Officer.
Location
National Secretariat, Abuja
Reporting Line
The Finance Officer will work under the direct supervision of the Finance Manager and provide support to the Finance Department.
Key Responsibilities
- Accounting & Financial Records
- Assist in the preparation and maintenance of financial records, ledgers, and reports.
- Post daily financial transactions into accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks and Excel-based systems).
- Maintain proper filing and documentation of vouchers, receipts, and payment evidence.
- Accounts Payable & Receivable
- Process invoices, payment requests, and staff reimbursements in line with approval protocols.
- Support reconciliation of supplier statements and outstanding payables.
- Accurately record donor receipts and other income.
- Bank & Cash Management
- Prepare and post bank and cash payment vouchers.
- Support monthly bank reconciliations and cash counts.
- Ensure compliance with cash handling and expense approval procedures.
- Payroll & Statutory Compliance
- Assist with payroll preparation and ensure timely remittance of statutory deductions (PAYE, Pension, etc.)
- Maintain employee financial records and ensure confidentiality.
- Budgeting & Reporting
- Support the preparation of monthly budget monitoring reports.
- Assist in donor project financial reporting and expenditure tracking.
- Identify and report budget variances to the Finance Manager.
- Audit & Compliance
- Support internal and external audit exercises by providing required schedules and documentation.
- Ensure compliance with organizational and donor financial policies and procedures.
Eligibility Criteria
- Recent graduate or final-year student in Accounting, Finance, Economics or a related discipline.
- Basic knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; knowledge of QuickBooks is an added advantage.
- High level of integrity, attention to detail, and willingness to learn.
- Interest in non-profit finance, development work, and gender justice.
Application Deadline
Monday 16th February, 2026
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a CV and a brief cover letter demonstrating their interest and suitability for the role with position as subject title to hr@fida.org.ng Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria 2026 National Executive and Staff Retreat: Building Momentum for Inclusive Justice Through Strategic Reflection and Planning
“The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.” To this end, leaders and staff of FIDA Nigeria came together to reflect, assess, and chart the path forward for justice for vulnerable groups.
The two-day Retreat convened national leadership, management, and staff under the theme:
“Advancing Inclusive Justice Systems for Women and Children in Nigeria through Access to Justice and Effective Legal Protection.”
Day One focused on reviewing 2025 performance across programmes, operations, finance, communications, and legal services. The session was strengthened by the physical presence of the Country Vice President, Mrs. Eliana Martins; Past Country Vice President (Emerita), Mrs. Amina Suzanah Agbaje; and the National Secretary, Mrs. Rekia Rachael Adejo-Andrew, while other members of the National Executive Committee joined virtually—demonstrating their commitment and strong leadership engagement.
Teams reflected on achievements, challenges, and lessons across access to justice initiatives, survivor support, advocacy, partnerships, and institutional systems. The day concluded with a SWOT analysis, sharpening priorities around coordination, sustainability, and impact.
We laid a strong foundation for evidence-based, practical planning initiatives.
by FIDADENUNCIATION OF THE BARBARIC ATTACK ON 15-YEAR-OLD ENDURANCE SABON
THE EVIL OF FORCED MARRIAGE, AND ALL FORMS OF ABUSE AGAINST CHILDREN
“When a child’s innocence is violated, humanity itself is under attack.”
DENUNCIATION OF THE BARBARIC ATTACK ON 15-YEAR-OLD ENDURANCE SABON
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria expresses its profound outrage and unequivocal condemnation of the barbaric attack on 15-year-old Endurance Sabon in Goska Community, Jama’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
For Endurance, it was reported that simply because her family refused to consent and subject her to a forced marriage, she was brutally mutilated and her hand amputated.
This act constitutes a grotesque assault on childhood, dignity, and integrity. It is criminal, inhuman, and morally indefensible. To punish a child with mutilation for resisting forced marriage is the epitome of cruelty—a betrayal of every principle of justice, law, and human decency.
FORCED MARRIAGE IS VIOLENCE
FIDA Nigeria unequivocally states that forced marriage is a grave form of violence against children. It strips girls of education, health, autonomy, and the right to choose their own future. When a child’s resistance is met with terror and mutilation, it exposes a dangerous and dehumanizing belief that girls are property rather than human beings—a belief that must be totally rejected by society and swiftly punished by law.
A BREACH OF LAW AND CONSCIENCE
The attack on Endurance Sabon is a flagrant violation of Nigerian law and the conscience of humanity. It contravenes the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Child Rights Act, the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
No custom, religion, or tradition grants any individual or group the right to maim a child. Practices that rely on violence to sustain them are not only unlawful—they are morally bankrupt.
DENUNCIATION OF INSECURITY AND IMPUNITY
This atrocity underscores the persistent insecurity in parts of Southern Kaduna. When armed actors can threaten families, abduct children, and mutilate them with impunity, it reflects a dangerous breakdown of protection systems and emboldens further crimes against the most vulnerable.
CALL TO CONSCIENCE AND RESPONSIBILITY
FIDA Nigeria calls on the Federal Government and Kaduna State Government, as well as all relevant security agencies, to urgently strengthen protection measures in Goska Community and other vulnerable areas. The State bears a non-negotiable duty to safeguard children and to ensure that all perpetrators and accomplices are promptly investigated, prosecuted, and punished.
We further call on traditional rulers, religious leaders, parents, and community gatekeepers to speak out decisively against forced marriage and all forms of violence against children. Silence in the face of such cruelty amounts to complicity.
CALL FOR SOLIDARITY AND SUPPORT
Beyond justice, healing and restoration are imperative. FIDA Nigeria calls on Civil Society Organizations, philanthropic institutions, development partners, and compassionate individuals to rally around Endurance Sabon and her family, as well as other courageous children and families facing similar ordeals. Survivors of violence must be supported to heal, rebuild, and grow into the best versions of themselves—regardless of the trauma they have endured. No child’s future should be defined or limited by violence inflicted upon them.
ADDRESSING ABUSE WITHIN CARE INSTITUTIONS
In a separate but equally disturbing development, FIDA Nigeria strongly condemns the wicked and heinous act allegedly perpetrated by the Matron of the Yola Children’s Home against children entrusted to her care and protection. This incident is particularly painful, given the trust placed in individuals and institutions mandated to protect vulnerable children. The protection of children is paramount, regardless of any situation.
We abhor the transformation of a Protector into an Abuser as this represents a profound betrayal of duty and trust.
We call for an immediate thorough investigation into this case such that practicable and effective child protective policies, processes and structures, are promptly put in place while the offenders are punished in accordance with all applicable laws.
Institutions and Officers must at all times be held strictly accountable, failing which this constitutes a grave miscarriage of justice and a fundamental breach of our collective responsibility to shield and protect children. This incident further underscores the dire need for continuous rigorous monitoring and supervision within child-care institutions. Where abuse occurs—especially by those acting as agents or representatives of care—the response must be swift, transparent, and uncompromising.
SOLIDARITY AND JUSTICE
FIDA Nigeria stands in unwavering solidarity with all children facing any form of violence. Justice is not optional—it is a legal and moral imperative. Our Children’s lives must not be defined by cruelty, nor should their suffering ever be ignored, trivialized, or excused.
This denunciation reaffirms a simple truth: a society that cannot protect its children has failed its most sacred duty. Nigeria must choose protection over impunity, law over violence, and humanity over cruelty.
FIDA Nigeria says : an injury to one child, is an injury to all.
With special thanks to the FIDA Nigeria, Child Safeguarding Committee, we continue to strive to ensure a beautiful peaceful society where children can grow to be their best.
Signed For FIDA Nigeria:
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President/National President FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary, FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Flags off 2025 16 Days of Activism: A National Call to End Digital Violence against Women and Girls
FIDA Nigeria Flags off 2025 16 Days of Activism: A National Call to End Digital Violence against Women and Girls
FIDA Nigeria has officially launched the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, calling on Nigerians, institutions, policymakers, and digital platforms to unite in ending all forms of violence against women and girls—especially the fast-growing wave of online abuse.
At the flag-off ceremony, the Country Vice President (CVP) of FIDA Nigeria highlighted the persistent and devastating impact of gender-based violence, describing it as one of the world’s most pervasive human rights violations.
She stated:
“Violence against women is not a tragedy of a few; it is a wound on the conscience of humanity. Every time a woman is silenced or stripped of dignity, we lose a part of our collective humanity.”
For over sixty years, FIDA Nigeria has remained steadfast in defending the rights of women and children. Grounded in global frameworks such as CEDAW, the Beijing Declaration, and the Maputo Protocol, the organization continues to drive national advocacy, legal reform, and community empowerment.
Digital Violence: The New Frontline
The CVP noted that the landscape of violence is shifting, with abuse now transmitting through smartphones, social networks, messaging platforms, and digital communities. New forms of violations—cyberstalking, image-based abuse, online harassment, impersonation, and identity theft—are increasingly weaponized against women and girls.
Though virtual in form, she stressed, digital violence leaves real psychological, emotional, and social harm, often with long-term consequences.
“This year’s theme, ‘End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,’ calls for urgent action to confront and dismantle the escalating wave of online abuse,” she remarked.
Strengthening Legal and Social Response
Reaffirming FIDA’s commitment to justice, the CVP emphasized the need to reinforce the implementation of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015 and the Cybercrimes Act 2015, ensuring that violations in digital spaces are fully addressed under the law.
Across all branches nationwide, FIDA Nigeria will intensify its interventions through:
- community engagements on digital safety
- sensitization campaigns in schools and youth centers
- media advocacy and public awareness
- legal assistance and counseling for survivors
- guidance on reporting mechanisms
- focused outreach to vulnerable and at-risk groups
“To every woman whose voice, image, or identity has been used to harm or silence her,” she affirmed, “you are not alone. Your truth matters. FIDA Nigeria stands with you.”
A National Call to Action
The CVP urged all stakeholders—government agencies, technology companies, civil society groups, community leaders, parents, and individuals—to take collective responsibility in ending both traditional and digital forms of violence.
She added:
“The time for silence is over; the call for action is now. When one woman’s voice is silenced, the world loses a verse in its song of progress.”
She officially declared the 2025 campaign open and encouraged all FIDA branches to drive the movement with renewed energy and determination over the next 16 days.
by FIDA16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM AGAINST GENDER BASED VIOLENCE 2025
Theme: “UNiTE! Invest to End Digital Violence against Women and Girls”
Digital violence has become one of the fastest growing and most alarming forms of abuse in our society today. It mirrors, and too often magnifies, the deep rooted gender inequalities already entrenched in our communities. This must stop.
Every day, women and girls are confronted with relentless forms of online violence including:
A. Online Harassment: Unwanted messages that create discomfort or fear.
B. Cyberbullying: Repeated hurtful or demeaning messages.
C. Trolling: Inflammatory comments aimed at provoking or humiliating individuals.
D. Doxing: Sharing personal information without consent.
E. Image Based Abuse: Posting or distributing intimate images without permission.
F. Online Stalking: Unwanted monitoring of one’s online activities.
G. Hate Speech: Discriminatory or demeaning content targeting individuals or groups.
H. Impersonation: Fake accounts created to damage reputation.
I. Gaslighting: Manipulating individuals into doubting their reality.
J. Sextortion: Threatening to release explicit content unless demands are met.
FIDA Nigeria acknowledges that these forms of online violence leave deep psychological, emotional, and reputational scars. They also deprive women and girls of the learning, earning, and leadership opportunities that digital platforms provide.
The internet, once a space for innovation, connection, empowerment, and expression, is increasingly being weaponized against the most vulnerable. As a result, many women and girls retreat from digital spaces out of fear of harassment, identity theft, impersonation, blackmail, or malicious AI generated falsehoods about their lives. This withdrawal limits their access to the countless opportunities technology offers for growth and development.
In an age where technology should bridge gaps and create opportunities, Nigerian women and girls are still being pushed out of digital spaces by targeted abuse and harassment. This erosion of confidence and opportunity undermines their rights to free expression, privacy, safety, and participation, and stalls national efforts toward gender equality and inclusive development.
This crisis persists despite existing laws such as the Cybercrimes Prohibition Prevention etc Act 2015 and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act 2015. Weak enforcement, anonymity of perpetrators, limited awareness, inadequate digital literacy, and insufficient accountability from tech platforms all contribute to impunity.
As we begin the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence with a focus on digital violence, FIDA Nigeria calls for immediate, united, and decisive action.
We urge government agencies, law enforcement, and policymakers to strengthen enforcement of relevant laws, adopt survivor centered approaches, and ensure swift prosecution of offenders.
We call on tech companies to assume greater responsibility by enforcing clear rules of engagement, removing harmful content promptly, and educating users on safety and reporting channels.
Equally important is sustained public awareness to promote digital literacy, responsible online conduct, and safety knowledge. Working collaboratively with development partners, we must create safe online spaces, empower survivors to speak out, and encourage timely reporting and access to justice.
Digital violence must never be trivialized or dismissed as free speech. It is violence, real and harmful, and must be treated as such. The safety of women and girls cannot end at the click of a button.
FIDA Nigeria insists that the digital world must uphold the same standards of dignity, privacy, respect, and protection that apply offline.
Let us UNiTE with collective resolve to end digital violence.
Signed:
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President and National President FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary and Editor in Chief
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Decries Persistent Abductions, Demands Comprehensive Strategy to End the Menace
As a nation, education must be guaranteed for every child, delivered in environments that are safe, nurturing, and peaceful, where care and protection are assured so that every child can grow and become their best.
We invest heavily in advocacy promoting education. Yet, when children finally make it into the classroom, what becomes of them?
Time and again, we are confronted with devastating news of attacks on schools and the abduction of students, particularly girls, leaving parents terrified and grieving while school authorities struggle to find effective measures to protect the children entrusted to them.
How many more children must be taken before the government adopts aggressive and proactive measures to end this menace?
The abduction of at least 25 girls in Kebbi State, alongside the cold-blooded killing of a vice principal and a security guard who bravely resisted, strikes at the very core of our humanity. We cannot remain unmoved. This tragedy inflicts a pain that words can scarcely describe.
Communities are deeply scarred, carrying the weight of repeated tragedies. Every new abduction reopens these wounds, leaving families in anguish and entire communities in despair.
A nation that cannot safeguard its children, especially its daughters, within their schools has failed in its most sacred duty.
The government’s foremost responsibility is to protect the lives and property of its citizens, yet the consequences of inaction continue to unfold as communities live in fear with no certainty, no protection, and no hope.
Today it is Kebbi; tomorrow it could be anywhere, closer to any of us. We cannot continue like this. We must rise, united and resolute, demanding immediate action, real accountability, and lasting security in all our communities.
Our children deserve to learn, to dream, and to grow without fear. The time for the government to act is NOW. Let us secure our communities.
FIDA Nigeria strongly condemns these heinous acts and calls on all relevant agencies to move swiftly and decisively to ensure justice and protection for our children. Let us restore safety in our schools and communities.
To the families currently grieving, our hearts are with you.
Act Now. Save Lives.
Signed
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President and National President
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary and Editor-in-Chief
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria, Epe Branch – Case UpdateDate: 12th November, 2025Case: State vs. Ediri Igbudu Melvin (Charge No: LD/24314C)Matter: A Case of Brutal Femicide
Today, the FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch once again appeared in court to represent the family of the late Thecla in pursuit of justice in this ongoing femicide case.
The court sat with both the Applicant’s and Defendant’s Counsel present. FIDA Nigeria was represented by Uchenna Ogwo Esq., Ejadairo Ekpo Esq., and Olorunkemi T. Eche-Olisenye Esq.
However, the Investigating Police Officer (IPO), who is a key witness, was absent, stalling the continuation of trial. The Court granted an adjournment and directed that the IPO must be present on the next date, 11th December 2025 at 12 noon, to give evidence.
The case has drawn significant public and media attention, with social commentator VeryDarkMan (VDM) also in attendance, showing support for the victim’s family.
FIDA Nigeria remains steadfast in standing against gender-based violence and ensuring justice for women and children.
FIDANigeria #FIDAepe #JusticeForEdiri #SayNoToFemicide #AccessToJustice #StopGenderBasedViolence #FIDAStandsForJustice
by FIDABuilding Safer Communities, Strengthening Voices Against GBV in Plateau State!
To deepen community accountability and promote a culture of zero tolerance for Gender-Based Violence (GBV), FIDA Nigeria convened a two-day Shared Learning Forum for Local Gatekeepers on GBV Prevention in Plateau State from 29th–30th October 2025.
The forum brought together traditional rulers, faith leaders, government representatives, and community advocates who exchanged insights, reflected on local realities, and mapped out strategies to reinforce GBV prevention across Plateau communities.
At the close of discussions, participants made firm commitments through community action plans focused on:
✅ Expanding advocacy and awareness campaigns on key protection laws such as the VAPP Law (2022), Child Rights Law (2005), Penal Code (2017), and GEOLAW (2015).
✅ Reviewing and formulating community bye-laws in Jos North, Riyom, and Bokkos LGAs to improve enforcement.
✅ Holding sensitization meetings for youth groups, women fellowships, and faith-based institutions.
✅ Conducting advocacy visits to key religious leaders — including the Chief Imam of Jos Central Mosque, CAN leadership, and theological schools — to amplify GBV prevention messages.
These resolutions reflect a strong and united front in the fight against GBV — a step closer to ensuring that every woman and girl in Plateau State lives free from violence, discrimination, and fear.
FIDANigeria #EndGBV
by FIDAStrengthening Community Action Against GBV: FIDA Nigeria Convenes 2nd Shared Learning Forum in Ekiti State
In its continuous effort to curb Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and advance gender justice, FIDA Nigeria convened the 2nd Shared Learning Forum in Ekiti State a strategic engagement under its Ford Foundation-supported GBV prevention programme.
The forum served as more than a meeting of minds; it was a powerful space for reflection, learning, and renewed commitment. Participants including state actors, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community influencers came together to assess progress, share insights, and deepen collective strategies for ending violence against women and girls.
Building on previous dialogues with cultural and traditional leaders, the session reinforced the importance of transforming entrenched social and cultural norms that fuel GBV. It also spotlighted the critical role of community gatekeepers as custodians of change, capable of inspiring a ripple effect of positive behavior and attitudes within their communities.
By sharing practical experiences and measurable progress, stakeholders renewed their pledge to uphold the principles of equality, dignity, and justice.
FIDA Nigeria remains confident that the outcomes of this shared learning engagement will inspire real change strengthening networks, catalyzing community-driven initiatives, and fostering environments where women and girls can live free from violence and fear.
by FIDATransforming Tradition into Tools for Justice: FIDA Nigeria Leads Engagement with Faith and Cultural Leaders
Through strategic engagement with traditional and religious leaders, FIDA Nigeria is transforming the same platforms that once silenced victims into powerful tools for justice and protection.
At a recent engagement in Ikeja, we emphasized that real change begins when faith, culture, and justice stand together — on the side of protection, equality, and respect for every woman and girl. The forum, supported by the Ford Foundation, focused on shifting harmful norms, strengthening partnerships, and mobilizing communities to take concrete action against violence.
FIDA Nigeria will not relent until every home becomes a place of safety, every community a defender of women’s rights, and every act of violence a thing of the past.
