by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Strongly Condemns the Alarming Surge in Violence Against Women
FIDA Nigeria is deeply alarmed and saddened by the harrowing surge in violence against women in recent times, as illustrated by the series of tragic and inhumane incidents that have sent shockwaves across the nation. These vile acts are not only a stain on our collective conscience but also a brutal violation of the fundamental rights and dignity of women.
In Anambra State, we were confronted with the heart-wrenching story of a man pouring fuel on his wife and setting her ablaze, leading to her agonizing and untimely death. In Edo State, a 12-year-old girl was subjected to a heinous gang rape by five men, who had the audacity to film and circulate the despicable act, compounding her trauma. Most recently, in Abuja, the tragic and unjust murder of Salome Adaidu has further highlighted the growing list of women whose lives have been violently and prematurely taken.
These barbaric acts are unthinkable and represent the height of cruelty, savagery, and disregard for human life. The family unit, which should be a haven of love and security, is becoming a battlefield for unimaginable atrocities. FIDA Nigeria vehemently condemns these heinous crimes and the growing culture of impunity surrounding them.
We cannot, as a society, remain silent while women are brutalized, violated, and murdered with seeming regularity. Silence only emboldens perpetrators, while justice delayed or denied continues to send the wrong message to society. This must stop.
FIDA Nigeria calls on the relevant authorities, particularly law enforcement agencies, to investigate these cases thoroughly, ensure the perpetrators are arrested, and prosecute them to the full extent of the law. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done to restore faith in our justice system and send a clear message that violence against women will not be tolerated.
We also call on the government at all levels, civil society organizations, traditional institutions, and religious leaders to strengthen their efforts in combating violence against women. Community-based systems for early intervention must be reinforced, and public awareness campaigns should be intensified to educate society on the dangers, illegality, and consequences of violence.
Women and girls must be encouraged and supported to speak out against abuse without fear of stigma, shame, or retaliation. At the same time, survivors of violence must receive the medical, psychological, and legal assistance they need to rebuild their lives.
FIDA Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the rights of women and children. We pledge our unwavering support to the families of the victims as they seek justice and healing in the wake of these tragedies.
As a nation, we must come together to end the scourge of gender-based violence. It is only through collective effort, compassion, and the enforcement of justice that we can hope to build a society where every woman and girl can live free from fear, harm, and violence.
Let us not forget these women whose lives have been taken from them in the most horrific ways. Let their stories ignite a sense of urgency in our hearts and a commitment to act. Together, we can and must put an end to this reign of terror against women.
Signed
FIDA Nigeria
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Retreat: A Journey to Reflect, Repackage, Reposition and Reignite
Every great mission requires a moment to pause, reflect, and refocus—and Day One of the FIDA Nigeria Retreat marked the perfect start to that journey. With a shared purpose of championing the rights of women and children, the team came together to connect, strategize, and build on past successes.
Highlights of Day One:
- Warm introductions, fostering connections and collaboration.
- A Welcome Address from the CVP that inspired clarity of vision for the days ahead.
- Thoughtful reflections on 2024, examining systems, processes, challenges & achievements; while articulating lessons learned.
- Bold strategies and plans outlined to shape and reposition for a successful 2025.
- Bonding activities that strengthened synergy and teamwork.
This was more than just the beginning of the retreat—it was the start of a renewed commitment to achieving greater impact and driving meaningful innovation & change for the organization to scale up in providing effective, efficient and impactful service!
FIDANigeriaRetreat2025 #EmpoweringWomen #StrategicPlanning #UnityForChange
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Visits NBA President: Uniting for Justice and Equality
FIDA Nigeria continues to lead the charge for gender justice and child protection; advocating strongly for social justice across board.
Led by the Country Vice President (CVP), Mrs. Eliana Martins, a high-profile delegation paid an
Advocacy visit to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN.
The FIDA team included the Immediate Past CVP, Amina Suzanah Agbaje, the National Secretary, Rekia Rachael Adejo-Andrew, the National Publicity Secretary, Chineze Obianyo, the Chairperson FIDA Abuja Branch Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko and other key FIDA officials.
During the meeting, FIDA Nigeria reiterated its dedication to its mission with a resolve poised to handle critical issues such as protecting and supporting survivors of gender-based violence, advocating for gender parity and women inclusion especially in leadership roles, child welfare and protection across the nation.
FIDA highlighted ongoing initiatives and called for stronger collaboration with the NBA to amplify these efforts.
Responding, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN expressed renewed solidarity with FIDA Nigeria’s mission; assuring them of NBA’s full support in addressing these key challenges, whilst emphasizing NBA’s commitment to combating gender-based violence, child abuse, and discrimination.
He reaffirmed that his administration would work closely with FIDA Nigeria to ensure that legal professionals contribute meaningfully to supporting survivors and advancing justice for all.
This partnership promises impactful change, breaking barriers and paving the way for a safer more equitable Nigeria.
The NBA President was ably supported on his team by Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN the Chairman of the NBA 2025 Annual General Conference Planning Committee, Third Vice President NBA: Zainab Aminu Garba, National PRO NBA: Bridget Edokwe, amongst others.
FIDA Nigeria appreciates and looks forward to building a strong and impactful collaboration with the Nigerian Bar Association to advance justice, promote equality, and protect the rights of women, children and other vulnerable groups nationwide.
FIDAForJustice #StrongerTogether #GenderEquality #ChildProtection #FIDAxNBA #JusticeForAll
#GenderEquality #ChildProtection #FIDAxNBA #JusticeForAll
by FIDAFIDA Rivers Strengthens Ties with the Rivers State Judiciary
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, led by its Chairperson, Mrs. Tamunonuemi Life-George, has reaffirmed its commitment to collaboration with the judiciary during a courtesy visit to the Honourable Chief Judge of Rivers State, Hon. Justice S.C. Amadi. The visit, which took place on Monday, January 20, 2025, was attended by the branch executives, the immediate past chairperson, the secretary, and other members of FIDA Rivers.
During the meeting, the Chairperson introduced the newly elected executives to the Hon. Chief Judge and magistrates present. She conveyed the organization’s appreciation for His Lordship’s ongoing support of FIDA Rivers and its advocacy for the rights of women and children. A plaque was presented to the Hon. Chief Judge as a gesture of gratitude.
In her remarks, Mrs. Life-George outlined key areas for collaboration, including:
Repairing the FIDA Rivers bus to support operational efficiency.
Relocating FIDA Rivers back to Block E within the Rivers State Judiciary premises to alleviate the space constraints currently faced at the NBA PH House.
Strengthening partnerships to promote and protect the rights of women and children in Rivers State.
Responding to the requests, Hon. Justice S.C. Amadi congratulated the new executive team and commended FIDA Rivers for its impactful work. He acknowledged the solid relationship established with the past leadership and expressed his desire to build on it with the current executives.
On the bus repairs, His Lordship advised the team to direct the request to the Executive Governor of Rivers State through the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, citing the judiciary’s current financial constraints. Regarding the office space at Block E, he informed the team about ongoing renovations and encouraged FIDA Rivers to consider long-term plans for acquiring a permanent office space.
The Hon. Chief Judge reaffirmed his support for FIDA Rivers’ activities, pledging to address pro bono matters and recognizing the organization’s critical role in advancing the rights of women and children across the state.
by FIDAThe Story of Amina: A FIDA Nigeria Case
Amina was just 18 when her dreams of a better life turned into a nightmare. Promised a job in the city, she was instead sold into trafficking—forced into labor by day and unimaginable abuse by night.
For years, her cries for help went unheard. Trapped and broken, she thought her life was over. Until one day, she escaped and found hope in FIDA Nigeria.
We gave Amina a voice, legal support, and a safe space to heal. Today, she is free, but countless others remain trapped, waiting for a lifeline.
You can help save a life. Donate today and support FIDA Nigeria’s work in rescuing and empowering survivors of trafficking.
4011089332
Fidelity Bank
FIDA Nigeria/Project 2
Every donation brings us closer to saving another life.
EndHumanTrafficking #SupportSurvivors #FIDAForJustice
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Congratulates Mrs. Ednah D. Azura on Her Election as NCWS President
FIDA Nigeria extends warm congratulations to Mrs. Ednah D. Azura, the newly elected President of the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS).
A woman of strength, vision, and dedication, Mrs. Azura embodies true leadership and a commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of women across Nigeria. We are confident that her tenure will usher in remarkable progress for women, families, and communities.
We wish her abundant grace, wisdom, and good health as she takes on this esteemed role. We look forward to greater collaboration and shared strides toward empowering women and upholding justice.
Congratulations once again, Madam President!
by FIDAVACANCY FOR THE POSITION OF COMMUNICATION 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 Communication Officer”.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Deadline 7th Feb 2025
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Grieves at the Horrific Loss of Children whose lives were cut in their prime, in Ibadan – Demands a full investigation and Justice
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is deeply heartbroken by the devastating tragedy that unfolded on the 18th of December, 2024, at the Islamic High School in Basorun, Ibadan, during which a stampede occurred, at what should have been a joyous Children’s Christmas Funfair, which claimed the lives of 35 innocent children, leaving several others in critical condition, fighting for survival.
At this festive period, this is a great tragedy with an unimaginable loss, which has undoubtedly shattered many families and the community, turning what should have been a season of love, blessings and celebration into a period of inconsolable grief.
These young souls, who would have been probable future champions of the country, left their homes in excitement filled with the joy and wonder of the festive season, only to have their dreams dashed and abruptly cut short. Their laughter, their light, and their promising future have been cruelly snatched away. What a great loss to the families affected, the community and the nation at large.
FIDA Nigeria stands in unwavering solidarity with the grieving families whose pain is beyond measure.We extend our deepest condolences and offer prayers for strength and healing, during this time of overwhelming grief.
To the injured children battling for their lives, we send heartfelt wishes for a full and speedy recovery.
This tragedy underscores the critical need for responsible leadership; for proactive steps to be taken in the protection and preservation of the rights and interests of children.
FIDA Nigeria calls for an immediate and urgent comprehensive investigation to be carried out to identify and address the lapses that led to this preventable unfortunate calamity.
The lives of our children, our most precious treasures, were entrusted to a system and process that has catastrophically failed them. Those responsible must face the full weight of the law, ensuring that no family ever endures such anguish again.
This sorrowful event should propel us into prompt action, to review our child protection policies, ensure accountability; ensure practical workable structures and processes are put in place regarding all matters that concern children; whilst also ensuring full adherence to the strictest safety protocols and compliance; with effective monitoring, particularly in institutions, schools, public places and events involving children.
FIDA Nigeria at this time urges all event organizers, government authorities/ agencies, and private sector stakeholders to prioritize the safety and lives of our children above all else. No festive celebration, no matter how well-intentioned, is worth the loss of a single life.
As a staunch advocate for the rights of women and children, FIDA Nigeria remains resolute in its mission to safeguard the lives and future of our lovely Nigerian children. Following full investigation, those found wanting must be brought to book to serve as a deterrent such that justice is seen to be served.
To the nation, we make a heartfelt plea: let us unite in mourning and in action. Together, we must honor the memory of these lost children by building a strong united society where safety and compassion are the cornerstones of every public gathering. Let us hold these grieving families in our thoughts, hearts and prayers. Their pain is our collective pain, and their loss is one we must all bear with resolve and determination.
For FIDA Nigeria
Signed
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria’s 16 Days of Activism: Empowering Women, Amplifying Voices, Ending GBV
In commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (November 25 – December 10, 2024) and International Human Rights Day, FIDA Nigeria led transformative initiatives that impacted lives and strengthened the fight against GBV across the nation.
FIDA Nigeria empowered 60 women across Anambra, Rivers, Ondo, Plateau, and the FCT through skill-building and livelihood programs, paving the way for financial independence. When women are economically empowered, they build resilience to challenge gender stereotypes and societal norms that subjugate their rights.
Across all our branches, we conducted campaigns, advocacy walks, and sensitization programs in communities, schools, marketplaces, and media platforms. These activities raised awareness on gender-based violence and provided opportunities to educate citizens about their rights, available support systems, and the importance of speaking out against abuse.
As part of our outreach efforts, FIDA Nigeria visited Human Rights Radio Abuja to further amplify the message of the 16 Days of Activism. Through this platform, we engaged listeners, sensitized the public on GBV issues, and emphasized the critical role of collective action in combating abuse.
During this period, FIDA Nigeria also provided free legal aid and counseling services to survivors of GBV, ensuring that justice is not just a concept but a lived reality. Our dedicated legal teams worked tirelessly to give survivors a voice and hold perpetrators accountable.
Through strengthened partnerships with community leaders, law enforcement agencies, and stakeholders, we created spaces where survivors felt seen, heard, and supported.
FIDA Nigeria’s efforts during the 16 Days of Activism further reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ending GBV and empowering women and children across Nigeria.
FIDANigeria #16DaysOfActivism #PubSec
by FIDAEliana Martins Expresses Gratitude as Newly Elected Country Vice President of FIDA Nigeria
With a heart filled with gratitude and great humility, I express my deepest appreciation to all FIDANs for the incredible support and trust bestowed upon me as your newly elected Country Vice President; and friends for the good wishes and prayers.
This victory is not just mine—it is ours. It represents the strength of our collective resolve, the power of our shared vision, and the unwavering dedication of each of you to the cause of justice and equity for women and children across the nation.
I am truly moved by the love, encouragement, and faith you have shown throughout this journey. To my colleagues, mentors, and friends, your belief in me has been my greatest source of strength. I promise to lead with the passion, integrity, and commitment that this great organization deserves.
Together, we will face challenges, break barriers, and create lasting change. As we embark on this journey, let us remain united, inspired, and resolute in our mission to build a better and more just world.
From the bottom of my heart, I thank you all. This is just the beginning of something extraordinary, and I am honored to lead alongside such remarkable team mates and individuals.
With love and gratitude,
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President (CVP)
FIDA Nigeria