by FIDAFIDA Niger State Strengthens Partnership with ICPC in the Fight Against GBV, Harassment, and Corrupt Practices
In a decisive move to strengthen the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), harassment, and related offenses, the FIDA Nigeria Niger State Branch, on May 28, 2025, paid a strategic advocacy visit to the Niger State Office of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Led by the Chairperson, Mrs. Bolanle Jibogun, Esq., the FIDA Niger team sought to build a solid collaboration with the Commission—particularly in the prosecution of cases under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law. The team emphasized the urgent need for synergy in addressing sexual harassment and other offenses that fall within both the ICPC’s and the VAPP Law’s mandates.
During the meeting, FIDA Niger warmly welcomed the newly appointed Resident State Coordinator (RSRC) of the ICPC and reaffirmed the organization’s unwavering commitment to partnering with the Commission. The interactive session that followed allowed both parties to exchange insights and explore actionable strategies for collaboration.
In response, the ICPC RSRC assured FIDA of the Commission’s full support, especially in public sensitization programs aimed at educating citizens on the scope of offenses handled by the ICPC and how to report them. This assurance marks a significant step toward strengthening public accountability and justice in the state.
As a symbolic gesture of partnership, FIDA Niger presented the VAPP Law to the RSRC and also distributed awareness materials to support ongoing advocacy efforts.
This partnership is expected to accelerate the fight against GBV, enhance prosecutorial effectiveness, and deepen public awareness—ultimately advancing justice and accountability in Niger State.
by FIDAFIDA NIGERIA PARTNERS WITH BIG FAMILY 360 FOUNDATION TO COMBAT GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
At FIDA Nigeria, we believe that every woman deserves to feel safe, protected, and heard. In line with this commitment, we recently welcomed a strategic visit from the Big Family 360 Foundation, led by Mr. Joseph Umaru Philip, as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Nigeria.
During the visit, the Foundation introduced SmartRR, an innovative mobile application designed to simplify the reporting and referral process for GBV cases. Remarkably, the app is accessible even on basic mobile phones, ensuring survivors and service providers across all communities — including rural and underserved areas — can connect quickly and securely.
FIDA Nigeria’s Country Vice President, Mrs. Eliana Martins, expressed strong support for the initiative and reaffirmed our commitment to the collaboration. She emphasized FIDA Nigeria’s readiness to work alongside Big Family 360 Foundation through:
• Joint workshops and sensitization campaigns
• Community-based outreach programs
• Capacity-building initiatives for frontline responders
This partnership underscores our shared vision of a Nigeria where women and girls are free from all forms of violence and discrimination.
Change is not just possible — it begins with action. Together, we will continue to champion the rights and dignity of every woman.
EndGBV #FIDANigeria #SmartRR
by FIDACALL FOR PROPOSAL TOWARDS AMPLIFYING GRASSROOTS EFFORTS FOR GREATER IMPACT
Background
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria continues to lead the charge in advocating for the rights and welfare of women and children across Nigeria. To enhance the impact of its interventions and bridge the gap between national efforts and community-level realities, FIDA Nigeria seeks to strengthen grassroots mobilization and legal empowerment through innovative, community-driven projects led by its state branches.
Problem Statement
Despite significant interventions seeking to address gender inequality and child development challenges in Nigeria; vulnerable populations across grassroots communities, particularly women, children and persons with disabilities remain disproportionately vulnerable due to limited access to justice, inadequate support structures, and deeply entrenched socio-cultural norms prevalent across these local communities. These challenges are further intensified by the lack of coordination among stakeholders, insufficient awareness of legal rights, and resource constraints at the community level.
FIDA Nigeria, as a frontline organization advocating for women’s and children’s rights, faces difficulties in bridging the gap between national, state interventions and grassroots realities.
Many rural and underserved communities lack sustainable referral pathways, effective engagement with local actors, and mechanisms for enforcing women and children’s rights. This disconnect hinders timely responses and the establishment of a supportive environment where survivors can seek justice and protection. Moreover, the absence of comprehensive community-driven initiatives, such as legal clinics, volunteer networks etc over burdens the work of the existing paralegal network, thereby, continuing to perpetuate cycles of violence and marginalization.
Addressing these gaps requires a more holistic grassroots mobilization efforts that prioritize, partnerships with key stakeholders, and the development of localized strategies to bring to light sustainable solutions.
It is on this basis that FIDA Nigeria opens a Call for proposals from State Branches to implement targeted initiatives that will improve access to justice, promote legal literacy, strengthen collaboration and build community partnerships etc.
Objectives of the Initiative
• To strengthen referral pathways between communities and FIDA branches.
• To enhance collaboration and trust between FIDA branches and community stakeholders.
• To promote community-driven, sustainable responses to gender inequality, child rights violations and related justice challenges.
Proposed Activities (Branches may tailor activities in this line; however more innovative approaches would be prioritized):
i. Establish Legal Clinics in selected communities to offer free legal services to indigent women and children. This can include Partnership with Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs) to leverage community resources and shelter services.
ii. Implement Community Awareness and Sensitization Campaigns using local languages, radio programs, town hall meetings, and market outreach.
iii. Replicate the “FIDA Ward” model in Primary Health Centers to provide support services to women/children.
Eligibility
• Only recognized FIDA Nigeria State Branches in good standing are eligible to apply.
• Branches must demonstrate capacity for grassroots engagement and have functional structures (e.g., active committees or community focal persons).
Grant Support
FIDA Nigeria will support 10 selected State Branches with a ₦150,000 grant each:
• Initial disbursement: ₦100,000 upon selection.
• Balance payment: ₦50,000 upon submission of a final report documenting implementation and outcomes.
Note: Branches are encouraged to supplement funding through in-kind contributions, community partnerships, donations, and crowdfunding initiatives to ensure sustainability and broader reach.
Proposal Requirements
Proposals should be no more than 3 pages and must include:
• Title and Brief Description of the initiative.
• Problem Statement specific to the branch’s community context.
• Objectives and expected outcomes.
• Proposed Activities.
• Key Stakeholders and Partnerships to be engaged.
• Implementation Plan and Timeline.
• Monitoring and Evaluation Strategy.
• Sustainability Measures.
Monitoring & Evaluation
FIDA Nigeria’s Community Network Committee, shall monitor and provide oversight on the implementation of selected proposals. Selected branches must participate in periodic progress reviews and submit a final report.
Proposal Submission
All proposals must be submitted electronically to:
📧 fidanigeria@yahoo.com
📌 Subject Line: CFP – Amplifying Grassroots Efforts – [Your State Branch]
Deadline: Applications should be submitted on or before 6th June, 2025
Duration
The implementation period for this initiative is one (1) month, running from July/August, 2025
Contact Information
For further inquiries please contact Mrs. Olusola Olayinka Sulayman, Chairperson FIDA Nigeria Community Network Committee
Conclusion
This initiative presents a strategic opportunity for FIDA State Branches to lead impactful, community-centered interventions that foster inclusive access to justice and sustainable protection of the rights of women and children. We look forward to receiving bold, innovative, and locally relevant proposals from our branches across the federation.
by FIDAKogi West Speaks: A Grassroots Call for Women’s Constitutional Representation
From council chambers to community halls, a powerful message echoed across Kogi West: women deserve a constitutional seat at the table.
On May 23, 2025, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, in collaboration with consortium partner FOMWAN, convened a district-level townhall meeting that united 30 influential stakeholders—including traditional rulers, religious and community leaders, representatives from the Ministry of Justice, civil society organizations, academia, and local government officials.
More than just a gathering, this event marked a strategic and coordinated effort to elevate grassroots voices in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future. The townhall culminated in the development of a community-driven memorandum—rooted not in theory, but in authentic dialogue and consensus—calling for the allocation of special seats for women in Nigeria’s parliament.
This critical engagement, supported by UN Women and funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) of the UK Government, underscores a key truth: meaningful constitutional reform begins from the ground up.
FIDA Nigeria remains committed to amplifying community voices and advancing gender-inclusive governance across the country.
#SpecialSeatsReserved4WomenBill
#HerSeatInParliament
#SideBySideCampaign
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Strengthens Capacity on Freedom of Religion or Belief in the South West
Belief is personal. Safety must be universal.
FIDA Nigeria, through its South West branches, participated in a capacity-building training organized by Search for Common Ground, focused on advancing the protection of Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) across communities.
The three-day training brought together lawyers and human rights advocates to examine practical strategies for safeguarding this fundamental right. Sessions explored how legal frameworks can protect vulnerable individuals, how communities can address religious divides, and how shared values can promote peaceful coexistence.
FIDA Nigeria remains committed to defending the rights of all Nigerians to live free from coercion, discrimination, or fear—regardless of belief or non-belief.
#FIDANigeria
by FIDAAdvocacy Townhall in Lokoja Advances Demand for Special Seats for Women
In Lokoja, voices were raised—not in protest, but with purpose.
FIDA Nigeria, in partnership with FOMWAN, convened a one-day advocacy townhall that brought together women’s groups, civil society organizations, political parties, artisans, market women, and persons with disabilities. These participants were not passive observers—they were active contributors to a growing national dialogue on inclusive governance.
The focus of the engagement was the development of a community-informed memorandum calling for the allocation of special seats for women in Nigeria’s parliament. Grounded in lived experiences and shared realities, the discussions reflected a collective understanding: inclusion must be deliberate, and it must be reflected in the constitution.
Supported by UN Women and funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) of the UK Government, the townhall reinforced the importance of grassroots engagement in shaping national policy priorities.
FIDA Nigeria remains committed to advancing legal and policy frameworks that promote equitable representation and meaningful participation in governance.
#SpecialSeatsReserved4WomenBill
#HerSeatInParliament
#ReservedSeatsNow
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.