by FIDAMale Champions in Lokoja Back Special Seats for Women
Change gains momentum when key actors take deliberate steps. In Lokoja, 30 male champions convened for a one-day HeForShe advocacy meeting to support women’s political inclusion in Nigeria.
Their purpose was clear—amplify the demand for gender-balanced representation without overshadowing the voices of women. During the session, participants contributed to and finalized a memorandum endorsing the allocation of special seats for women in Nigeria’s parliament. This move signals a shift in perspective: gender inclusion is not exclusive to women—it is a collective responsibility.
The advocacy meeting was facilitated by FIDA Nigeria, with support from UN Women and funding from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) of the UK Government.
FIDA Nigeria continues to engage with stakeholders who are committed to structural reforms that promote equitable representation at all levels.
#SpecialSeatsReserved4WomenBill
#HerSeatInParliament
#SideBySideCampaign
by FIDAFIDA NIGERIA ENGAGES CITIZENS TO BUILD CONSENSUS AND AGGREGRATE DEMANDS ON PASSAGE OF THE RESERVED SEATS FOR WOMEN’S BILL TOWARDS STRENGTHENING NIGERIAN WOMEN REPRESENTATION IN PARLIAMENT
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, with support from the UNWOMEN Nigeria and funding from the Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) has launched a significant new initiative aimed at engaging Nigerian Citizens at the State and Community levels towards building consensus and aggregating demands on the passage of the Reserved Seats for Women Bill which is presently being considered by Joint Constitutional Reform Committees of the National Assembly.
This initiative, launched under the auspices of the Advancing Women’s Inclusion and Representation in Leadership and Political Processes in Nigeria project, will be implemented across nine States of the Federation namely: Anambra, Enugu (South East), Edo (South South), Oyo (South West), Kogi (North Central), Adamawa (North East), Sokoto, Kano & Jigawa(North West)
Mrs. Eliana Martins, Country Vice President of FIDA Nigeria in a Statement disseminated to the press, informs Nigerians that this initiative aims to drive conversations on inclusivity of gender quota specifically campaigns and advocacy on Reservation of Special Seats for Women at the Nigerian Parliament (Senate, House of Representatives and State Houses of Assembly); in the constitutional amendment process, working with multi-stakeholders at both the State and Local communities.
She stated that through proper and regular engagements, these stakeholders will unanimously aggregate demands, through a co-creation process, collate inputs which will be reduced into a draft memorandum which will be presented at the public hearings before the relevant National Assembly committees.
Laying credence to the aforementioned statement, the Senior Manager, Programs & Partnerships FIDA Nigeria emphasized that advocacy is tilted towards enabling a gender responsive legal environment that will witness additional Special Seats for 37 Women in the Nigerian Senate and Federal House of Representatives respectively, totaling 74 and 108 additional seats at the respective State Houses of Assembly
Mr. Fikih Obaro further highlighted the primary goals of the project to include:
- Strengthening advocacy efforts for the inclusion of exclusive additional special seats for women through strategic partnerships with key state and non-state actors.
- Increasing public awareness and support in advancing women political participation and representation through the constitution amendment process.
- Aggregating demands and advocacy asks through a draft memorandum from citizens towards improving women representation in Governance and political process.
- Securing commitments from National and State Houses of Assembly by building a passage for 74 additional exclusive Special Seats for Women at the National Assembly and 108 Seats at the State Houses of Assembly through Constitutional Amendment/Review process.
Conclusively the Country Vice President/National President, Mrs. Eliana Martins encouraged the public to support all efforts to advance the representation and participation of women in Nigerian politics and specifically the Nigerian ….
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
Eliana Martins (Mrs.)
Country Vice President /National President
by FIDAStrengthening Families, Empowering Communities: FIDA Nigeria–Abuja Branch Brings Legal Awareness to Gwarimpa Village
Every strong society is built on the foundation of informed, protected, and empowered families. Recognizing this, FIDA Nigeria Abuja Branch marked the International Day of Families with a deeply impactful community outreach to Gwarimpa Village bringing legal education closer to the people and reaffirming its commitment to promoting family rights at the grassroots level.
Families in Gwarimpa gathered with hope and curiosity as FIDA Chairperson, Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko, led an engaging session that spotlighted the everyday legal challenges many households face but rarely talk about gender-based violence, child neglect, early and forced marriage, and harmful inheritance practices.
“Your family should be a place of protection, not fear,” she told the crowd, reminding them that while cultural traditions matter, no tradition should override the rights and safety of any individual, especially women and children.
Warmly received by the Dakachin Gwarimpa, Alhaji Bayero Yakubu, the outreach created a space where law met culture, and dialogue gave way to understanding. The community’s openness to learning and collaboration was clear. Many, including the village women’s leader, spoke of the transformative power of knowledge and how the session helped shed light on issues long considered taboo or misunderstood.
“We have learned today that we are not powerless. The law is for us too,” said one participant, visibly moved. “I will take this message to the men in our homes, to the mothers, and to the children growing up in silence.”
Chairperson Onyenucheya-Uko emphasized the importance of utilizing existing laws such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act and the Child Rights Act to safeguard families and ensure justice. She called for communities to become active stakeholders in building safer, more inclusive homes and societies.
In response, Alhaji Bayero Yakubu expressed heartfelt gratitude to FIDA for choosing Gwarimpa for the outreach. He pledged the community’s willingness to support future engagements and ensure that the lessons shared would not end with the day’s event.
The outreach wasn’t just a one-off event; it was a call to action a reminder that legal empowerment is a powerful tool for social change. FIDA Nigeria–Abuja Branch continues to walk alongside families, especially in underrepresented communities, offering not only legal guidance but also hope for a more just and equitable future.
As the sun set on Gwarimpa that day, the air was filled not only with gratitude but with the quiet strength of a community awakened to its rights and ready to rise.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Commends the Conviction and Sentencing of Peter Nwachukwu: A Landmark Judgment for Justice and Accountability
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria hails the recent conviction and sentencing of Peter Nwachukwu, husband of the late gospel artist, Osinachi Nwachukwu, as a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for women and children in Nigeria.
Arraigned on June 3, 2022, by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (OAGF), Mr. Nwachukwu faced a 23-count charge, including culpable homicide punishable by death, spousal battery, criminal intimidation, and cruelty to children. After a thorough trial process in which 17 witnesses were called by the prosecution and numerous documentary exhibits tendered, the Federal Capital Territory High Court, presided over by Hon. Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme, delivered a verdict that affirms the sanctity of human life and the rights of women and children.
The court found Mr. Nwachukwu guilty of culpable homicide, sentencing him to death by hanging, and imposed additional prison terms and fines on other counts, underscoring the gravity of his actions.
FIDA Nigeria applauds the judiciary for its firm stance and the courage demonstrated in delivering this landmark judgment. This verdict sends a powerful message: violence, abuse, and impunity against women and children will not be tolerated. Justice will take its full course, and the rights and dignity of every individual—especially the most vulnerable—must be respected and upheld.
We furthermore commend the legal team for diligent prosecution
This judgement serves as great encouragement to victims/ survivors to speak out …. justice is real and it is served, so there is hope.
As an organization committed to the protection, promotion, and preservation of the rights of women and children, FIDA Nigeria reiterates its resolve to continue working with the government, law enforcement, civil society, and communities to ensure access to justice and a safer, more equitable society for all.
We extend our deepest sympathies once again to the family of the late Osinachi Nwachukwu and call on all Nigerians to continue to speak up and take action against all forms of gender-based violence.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Hosts Impactful Forum for Men Promoting Gender Justice in Jos
Last week, FIDA Nigeria, with the support of the Ford Foundation, convened an impactful 2nd Bi-Annual Shared Learning Forum for Men Promoting Gender Justice in Jos, Plateau State.
The event brought together men from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about promoting gender equality and challenging gender-based violence (GBV) within their communities. Held at the Villa Grand Hotel, the forum featured engaging panel sessions on Mobilizing Male Voices for GBV Prevention and Sustaining Male Advocacy for Gender Justice, which sparked meaningful conversations and reflection.
One of the forum’s most compelling moments was the presentation of community success stories, highlighting the positive outcomes of grassroots efforts in GBV prevention and male-led advocacy.
The forum served as a platform for learning, sharing experiences, and strengthening male involvement in the movement for justice, equity, and safer communities.
FIDA Nigeria remains committed to building inclusive spaces where all voices—especially those of male allies—are empowered to contribute to lasting social change.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Engages Community Men Groups in Lagos State to champion Gender Justice
FIDA Nigeria with support from the Ford Foundation, hosted a 2nd Bi-Annual Shared Learning Forum for Men Promoting Gender Justice 2025 in Lagos State.This groundbreaking event amplified the essential role men play in advancing gender equality and challenging harmful norms that sustain injustice.
Key Outcomes Derived from the Event Include:
✅ Enhanced male allyship in combating gender-based violence.
✅ Insightful discussions on dismantling stereotypes and promoting equity.
✅ Renewed pledges from stakeholders to advocate for policy reforms and grassroots initiatives.
Gender justice is a shared mission, not a solitary struggle for women. Looking ahead, we anticipate deeper collaborations and tangible progress in breaking down barriers to equality. The journey continues!
by FIDAFIDA Rivers Conducts Sensitization Tour at Aleto-Eleme Community Market
As part of its commitment to legal awareness and advocacy, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, led by Chairperson Mrs. Tamunoibuemi Life-George, carried out a sensitization tour at the Aleto-Eleme community market on March 18, 2025.
During the visit, both men and women actively engaged with the FIDA Rivers team, seeking to understand existing laws, particularly those related to violence against persons and inheritance rights. The exercise was well-received and marked a significant step toward promoting legal awareness in the community.
Following the sensitization, the delegation proceeded to the Nigerian Police Eleme Area Command to bring a case of domestic violence to the attention of the Area Commander. The case involved a woman who was physically assaulted by her husband, resulting in severe injuries to her head and face. The perpetrator, now at large, also took their three children with him.
In response, the Area Commander immediately directed her officers to investigate the matter and ensure the suspect is arrested. She assured FIDA Rivers of a thorough investigation and justice for the victim.
Signed:
Tamunoibuemi Life-George
Chairperson, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
Rachel Princewill, AIMC
Publicity Secretary/Editor, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch Pays Advocacy Visit to Eleme Kingdom
On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, the Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, Mrs. Tamunoemi Life-George, led a delegation on an advocacy visit to the King of Eleme at his palace in Aleto-Eleme, Rivers State.
The delegation was warmly received by His Royal Majesty, King (Dr.) Emere Philip Osaro Obelle JP (One-Eh Eleme and King of Eleme), alongside the Chiefs representing the ten clans that make up the Eleme Kingdom.
A major highlight of the visit was the advocacy on the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law of Rivers State and the Dehumanizing and Harmful Traditional Practices Abolition and Amendment Act. Discussions centered on creating awareness and ensuring the protection of women’s rights within the Eleme community.
An interactive session followed, where the delegation addressed questions from the King, Chiefs, and community members, providing insights into the impact and enforcement of these critical laws.
In his response, King Emere Philip Osaro Obelle JP expressed gratitude to his Chiefs for their swift response to the meeting and commended the Queen Mother for mobilizing women, who turned out in large numbers. He further extended heartfelt appreciation to FIDA Rivers State for its dedication to promoting justice and women’s rights.
He reaffirmed that the Eleme community holds women in high esteem and assured that his kingdom will continue to uphold peace, fairness, and respect for women’s rights.
To further promote legal awareness, copies of the VAPP Law (in Special English), “FIDA Rivers on the Move,” and other relevant legal documents were presented to the King and his Chiefs.
Signed:
Tamunoibuemi Life-George
Chairperson, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
Rachel Princewill, AIMC
Publicity Secretary/Editor, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
by FIDAFIDA Rivers Pays Courtesy Visit to NBA Port Harcourt Branch Chairman, Mrs. Cordelia Eke
As part of the International Women’s Day celebrations, the Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Rivers, Tamunoibuemi Life-George, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Port Harcourt Branch, Mrs. Cordelia U. Eke.
During the visit, the FIDA Chairperson commended Mrs. Eke on her exemplary leadership, describing her achievements as an inspiration to female lawyers. She highlighted Mrs. Eke’s role as the first female Chairman of the NBA PH Branch, acknowledging her as a beacon of hope for women in the legal profession.
She further expressed appreciation for the peaceful coexistence between FIDA Rivers and the NBA PH Branch at the Branch House, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration.
NBA PH Chairman Applauds FIDA’s Contributions
In response, Mrs. Cordelia Eke thanked the delegation for the visit and noted that, as a proud member of FIDA herself, she deeply appreciated the kind gesture. She acknowledged FIDA’s significant contributions to society and encouraged the association to implement self-empowerment programs to benefit its members.
Additionally, she acknowledged the strong relationship between NBA PH and FIDA Rivers but advised on the need for better scheduling of mediation sessions to prevent disruptions to library activities.
A Gesture of Appreciation
Reaffirming her support for FIDA’s noble cause, Mrs. Eke presented the delegation with a copy of her book, “Criminal Justice in Nigeria,” as well as “Contemporary Issues in Women and Children’s Rights,” a book published in honor of Hon. Justice Adama I. Iyayi-Lamikanra, former Chief Judge of Rivers State.
Signed:
Tamunoibuemi Life-George
Chairperson, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
Rachel Princewill, AIMC
Publicity Secretary/Editor, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
by FIDABridging the Gaps in GBV Prevention: A Call to Action
The Annual Multi-Stakeholders Dialogue on Gender-Sensitive Legislations, hosted by FIDA Nigeria with support from Ford Foundation, uncovered critical gaps in policy implementation and enforcement in Ekiti State.
Stakeholders—including government agencies, CSOs, and traditional leaders—emphasized the need for stronger collaboration, improved judicial efficiency, and strategic advocacy to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the state. The dialogue reinforced the urgency of legislative reforms and accountability mechanisms to end impunity and ensure the effective application of legal frameworks.
Call to Action
For real impact and sustainable change, stakeholders must:
✅ Strengthen policy implementation and enforcement at state and local levels
✅ Enhance collaboration among government agencies, CSOs, and traditional/religious leaders
✅ Increase awareness and accountability mechanisms to prevent impunity
✅ Push for legislative reforms and judicial efficiency to ensure effective legal application
✅ Engage media and CSOs in strategic advocacy to influence behavior and amplify community-driven solutions
A more protective system is essential to protecting women and girls from violence in Ekiti State. The time to act is now!