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FIDA Nigeria Invites Application for a Consultant

TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR) FOR A CONSULTANT TO DEVELOP A TRAINING MANUAL AND LEARNING TOOLS ADDRESSING SGBV, CEFM AND RELATED ISSUES AFFECTING VULNERABLE GROUPS

Introduction
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is a non-profit, non-political, voluntary association of women called to the practice of law in Nigeria. Established in 1964, FIDA Nigeria’s primary role is to protect, promote and preserve the rights of women and children in Nigeria.

Its main objectives are to establish friendly international relations on a basis of equality and mutual respect for all peoples; promote the study of comparative law; promote the principles and aims of the United Nations in its legal and social aspects; enhance, promote, protect and preserve the rights and welfare of women and children, realising that the happiness of the home and the strength of the society is dependent on their wellbeing; proffer advice to Government in all cases of disregard relating to women and children. FIDA Nigeria actualises its objectives through free legal representation for indigent women, advocacy and policy campaigns, education and training, mediation and counselling services, publishing and information resources.

FIDA Nigeria was selected as a resource partner for the Strengthening Civil Advocacy and Local Engagement (SCALE) project supported by USAID through the Palladium Group. The SCALE Project presents an opportunity for FIDA to work and scale up its operations particularly in advocating for gender and child-centric protection legislations against Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV); Child, Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM); Trafficking in Persons (TIP), as well as building the capacity of community based civil society organisations, and carrying out policy campaigns and sensitization activities across communities on issues affecting women, children and persons with disabilities at the state and federal levels.
In particular, the project will focus on strengthening capacity and working with stakeholders to address social norms that encourage Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) and Child, Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM) in the community; and empowering (through capacity building) community paralegals to respond to incidences of SGBV, CEFM and trafficking in persons (TIP). In the course of implementation, FIDA will engage relevant stakeholders across the target states to secure their buy-in into programme implementation and sustainable outcomes. FIDA will prioritize the identification of local civil society organisations and community based organisations for the purpose of strengthening their capacity to respond to victims/survivors psychosocial, legal aid drive key prevention interventions aimed at curbing SGBV, CEFM, TIP and related abuses that affect vulnerable groups as well as focus on examining and addressing their attitudes toward gender and GBV that may influence their ability or willingness to provide quality and unbiased services to survivors of GBV.

Situation Analysis
Nigeria ranks 128 out of 153 countries on the Gender Equality Index. The inadequate inclusion of women’s and girls’ perspectives in policy making decisions, resource allocation and implementation in economic and social sectors continues to challenge the advancement of gender equality. Over 70% of women live below the poverty line, with maternal mortality ratios at 576 per 100,000. Of the estimated 3.2 million Nigerians living with HIV, 55% are women. Enrollment of girls in school ranges from one third to one quarter of classroom participants and out of the 10.5 million out-of-school children, two-thirds are girls.
Negative social norms which condone or support violence against women and girls and harmful practices remain pervasive. Gender-based violence is widespread and 30% of women aged 15-49 have reported experiences of sexual abuse, with a marked divide between girls and women in urban (33%) and rural (24%) areas.
Nigeria has the largest number of child brides in Africa and one of the highest prevalence rates in the world: 23 million girls and women were married as children. Currently, 43% of girls are married before age 18, and 17% are married before they turn 15. Once girls in Nigeria are married, very few (1.2% of girls 15-19) use contraception or have their contraception needs met (13.1%). Nigeria accounts for the third highest number of women and girls who have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM), reported at 25% prevalence. Harmful practices occur in a context of limited knowledge and access to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) information and services, with complications of early childbearing and obstructed labour such as obstetric fistula. An estimated 20,000 new cases of obstetric fistula occur every year.
The Nigerian Government’s response has included efforts to improve its institutional and policy framework, which include the Violence against Person Prohibition (VAPP) Act,
enacted at the national level in 2015, the Child Rights Act 2003, the NAPTIP Act 2015the National Policy on the Elimination of FGM/Cutting, the National Strategy to End Child Marriage, a Road Map and National Priority Actions to End Violence Against Children which have been adopted and are being supported for implementation, the Child Rights Act, as well as several policies and frameworks for a conducive environment for women and girls’ access to quality sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) information and services. As a preventive measure, the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Education in collaboration with civil societies is implementing Family Life HIV Education (FLHE) to empower adolescents and young people develop the skills, knowledge, attitudes, and competences required for making the right life choices to prevent sexual and gender-based violence. Ongoing efforts to increase access to quality accessible and affordable services include the National Health Act, as well as the One Primary Health Care per ward initiative of the Federal Government.
For these initiatives to yield meaning outcomes, it is important to critically approach and understand the social drivers of SGBV, CEFM, and early adolescent pregnancy in the Nigerian context. These social drivers are religion; culture; economic hardship and poverty; war and conflict; limited opportunity for education; inability to access justice; and discriminatory or gender biased laws.

Terms of reference
In line with the capacity strengthening objective of the project, the consultant will develop a training manual and learning tools addressing SGBV, CEFM, TIP and related issues affecting vulnerable groups to guide the delivery of trainings across board. In addition, the modules of the manual will be informed by findings from the baseline, technical needs assessment and design lab with stakeholders which shall be provided to the consultant.
The content of the training manuals should include the following:
i. Capacity building on SGBV, CEFM and TIP for CSO’s (inclusive advocacy clusters) providing victim support services across target states (4 day training activity).

ii. Identification and training of community and faith leaders as SGBV, CEFM & TIP Advocates and paralegals (1 day training).

iii. Specialized CITP training of prosecutors, investigators and judges on countering TIP (5 day training activity).

iv. Training on effective monitoring, evaluation, documentation and learning approaches for CSO’s (inclusive advocacy clusters) (3 day activity).

v. Conduct training on victim centered and trauma informed shelter and case management approaches for 30 CSO’s.

In addition the manual should also contain:
• An outline of key modules relevant to SGBV, CEFM and TIP.
• The objectives for each training session.
• Simple definitions of basic concepts; charts, diagrams, tables, and explanations.
• Some policy frameworks for relevant topics.
• Practical tools and checklists.
• Case studies, simulation and other types of exercises, and role-plays. Some of these contain “Notes for the Facilitator” which are intended to assist trainers in bringing out some of the relevant issues and questions in the exercise, and in stimulating group discussion.
• Facilitation methods and techniques.
• Reference documents which are to be used by participants when doing certain exercises amongst several others.

Qualifications

Experience:
a. 5 years’ work experience, especially in research, in any of the thematic areas of sexual and gender based violence; gender equality and social inclusion; democracy and governance; women and youth empowerment; and trafficking in persons and human rights.
Education:
Advanced degree in any of the following: Law, Political Science, Development Studies, International Relations or any discipline in the Social Sciences.
Fees
FIDA Nigeria shall pay the consultant a total sum of seven hundred thousand naira (N700,000.00) only inclusive of 5% withholding tax, for this consultancy. 50% of the amount shall be paid upon commencement of the assignment and the remaining 50% upon the submission of approved deliverables.

Qualified candidates should send curriculum vitae and cover letter addressed to the Country Vice-President/National President to hr@fida.org.ng
Subject of e-mail should be “Application for Consultant- SGBV, CEFM, TIP and related issues”.

Deadline: February 1, 2022.

BlogJanuary 13, 20220 comments

by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria Invites Application for a Consultant

TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR) FOR A CONSULTANT TO CONDUCT FORMATIVE RESEARCH TO IDENTIFY PROMISING PRACTICES TO CURB SGBV & CEFM IN NIGERIA

Introduction
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is a non-profit, non-political, voluntary association of women called to the practice of law in Nigeria. Established in 1964, FIDA Nigeria’s primary role is to protect, promote and preserve the rights of women and children in Nigeria.

FIDA Nigeria was selected as a resource partner for the Strengthening Civil Advocacy and Local Engagement (SCALE) project supported by USAID through the Palladium Group. The SCALE Project presents an opportunity for FIDA to work and scale up its operations particularly in advocating for gender and child-centric protection legislations against Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV); Child, Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM); Trafficking in Persons, as well as building the capacity of community based civil society organisations, and carrying out policy campaigns and sensitization activities across communities on issues affecting women, children and persons with disabilities at the state and federal levels.
In particular, the project will focus on strengthening capacity and working with stakeholders to address social norms that encourage Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) and Child, Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM) in the community; and empowering (through capacity building) community paralegals to respond to incidences of SGBV, CEFM and trafficking in persons (TIP). In the course of implementation, FIDA will engage relevant stakeholders across the target states to secure their buy-in into programme implementation and sustainable outcomes. FIDA will prioritize the identification of local civil society organisations and community based organisations for the purpose of strengthening their capacity to respond to victims/survivors psychosocial, legal aid drive key prevention interventions aimed at curbing SGBV, CEFM, TIP and related abuses that affect vulnerable groups as well as focus on examining and addressing their attitudes toward gender and GBV that may influence their ability or willingness to provide quality and unbiased services to survivors of GBV.

Situation Analysis
Nigeria ranks 128 out of 153 countries on the Gender Equality Index. The inadequate inclusion of women’s and girls’ perspectives in policy making decisions, resource allocation and implementation in economic and social sectors continues to challenge the advancement of gender equality. Over 70% of women live below the poverty line, with maternal mortality ratios at 576 per 100,000. Of the estimated 3.2 million Nigerians living with HIV, 55% are women. Enrollment of girls in school ranges from one third to one quarter of classroom participants and out of the 10.5 million out-of-school children, two-thirds are girls.
Negative social norms which condone or support violence against women and girls and harmful practices remain pervasive. Gender-based violence is widespread and 30% of women aged 15-49 have reported experiences of sexual abuse, with a marked divide between girls and women in urban (33%) and rural (24%) areas.
Nigeria has the largest number of child brides in Africa and one of the highest prevalence rates in the world: 23 million girls and women were married as children. Currently, 43% of girls are married before age 18, and 17% are married before they turn 15. Once girls in Nigeria are married, very few (1.2% of girls 15-19) use contraception or have their contraception needs met (13.1%). Nigeria accounts for the third highest number of women and girls who have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM), reported at 25% prevalence. Harmful practices occur in a context of limited knowledge and access to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) information and services, with complications of early childbearing and obstructed labour such as obstetric fistula. An estimated 20,000 new cases of obstetric fistula occur every year.
The Nigerian Government’s response has included efforts to improve its institutional and policy framework, which include the Violence against Person Prohibition (VAPP) Act,
enacted at the national level in 2015, the National Policy on the Elimination of FGM/Cutting, the National Strategy to End Child Marriage, a Road Map and National Priority Actions to End Violence Against Children which have been adopted and are being supported for implementation, the Child Rights Act, as well as several policies and frameworks for a conducive environment for women and girls’ access to quality sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) information and services. As a preventive measure, the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Education in collaboration with civil societies is implementing Family Life HIV Education (FLHE) to empower adolescents and young people develop the skills, knowledge, attitudes, and competences required for making the right life choices to prevent sexual and gender-based violence. Ongoing efforts to increase access to quality accessible and affordable services include the National Health Act, as well as the One Primary Health Care per ward initiative of the Federal Government.
For these initiatives to yield meaning outcomes, it is important to critically approach and understand the social drivers of SGBV, CEFM, and early adolescent pregnancy in the Nigerian context. These social drivers are religion; culture; economic hardship and poverty; war and conflict; limited opportunity for education; inability to access justice; and discriminatory or gender biased laws.

Terms of reference
Addressing the complex and deep-rooted drivers of SGBV and CEFM in Nigeria requires a holistic and integrative approach that is built on evidence of what works not mere assumptions. To this end, the consultant will carry out a formative research that will result in the following outcomes:
• Understanding of the current sector issues and contribute to the design of effective programs curbing SGBV and CEFM
• Identify promising practices to shift cultural and social norms that drive SGBV and CEFM, focusing on how strategies can mobilize vulnerable populations, communities, and government actors to work together to address gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) issues at community, state, and federal levels
The outcomes of the research will be shared with critical stakeholders especially SCALE resource partners and CSOs clusters working on SGBV, CEFM and vulnerable populations to provide necessary evidence for designing effective interventions and advocating for relevant policy reforms.

Qualifications

Experience:
a. 5 years’ work experience, especially in research, in any of the thematic areas of sexual and gender based violence; gender equality and social inclusion; democracy and governance; women and youth empowerment; and trafficking in persons and human rights.
Education:
Advanced degree in any of the following: Law, Political Science, Development Studies, International Relations or any discipline in the Social Sciences.

Qualified candidates should send curriculum vitae and cover letter addressed to the Country Vice-President/National President to fidanigeria@yahoo.com.
Subject of e-mail should be “Application for Formative Research Consultant”.

Deadline: January 21, 2022.

BlogJanuary 13, 20220 comments

by FIDA

Strategic Collaboration Between FIDA Nigeria Branches

Strategic Collaboration by FIDA NIGERIA, Bayelsa, and Uyo Branches has led to the rescue of two trafficked teenage girls aged 18 and 17 respectively and subsequent reunion with their families.

Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Blog, Branch ActivitiesJanuary 12, 20220 comments

by FIDA

PALLADIUM SCALE PROJECT

FIDA Nigeria as a resource partner under the Palladium Strengthening Civic Advocacy and Local Engagement (SCALE) Project is managing the implementation of SCALE components 4 and 5 under the project.

The project presents an opportunity for FIDA to continue its work and scale up its operations, particularly in advocating for gender and child-centric protection legislation against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV); Child, Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM); Trafficking in Persons, as well as policy campaigns and sensitization activities across communities on issues affecting women, children and persons with disabilities at the state and federal levels.

Under this 1-year renewable program, FIDA will work with stakeholders to address social norms that encourage Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and Child, Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM) in the community; and empower (through capacity building) community paralegals to respond to incidences of SGBV, CEFM, and trafficking in persons.

ProjectsJanuary 1, 20220 comments

by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria Invites Applications for Programme Manager.

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation made up of over 3,500 female lawyers with several years’ experience in utilizing the law to address social problems in Nigeria. The organization’s mandate is the enhancement, promotion, protection and preservation of the rights and welfare of women and children in Nigeria. FIDA Nigeria implements key projects and activities aimed at providing access to justice to indigent persons and addressing socio-cultural, political and economic structural imbalances that particularly affect women and children.

FIDA Nigeria is seeking to fill the vacant position of Programme Manager.

Location: FCT Abuja

Vacancy Type: Permanent, full-time

Start Date: January 10, 2022

Duties and Responsibilities

Provide technical leadership on the implementation of donor funded projects.
Preparation and review of grant/funding proposals to prospective donors.
Preparation, supervision and review of reports (internal and external).
Coordination and supervision of Secretariat and project staff nationwide.
Collaborate with staff and FIDA state branches to ensure successful project implementation and proactively deal with arising challenges, nuances or changes in project implementation.
Contribute to the adherence to donor/grant requirements, including financial standards.
Collaborate with the finance staff to ensure management of financial records, including the provision of complete documentation for requests and retirements.
Support the smooth and effective flow of communication with FIDA states’ branches, by maintaining regular contact, providing required information, etc.
Ensure effective follow-up of communication with donors, partners, including official letters, requests for technical assistance, and the process of identifying participants and national experts, including trainers, for activities under projects.
Advise the National Executive Committee and other project staff of local considerations and realities for proper and effective project implementation, as well as on ways to strengthen partnerships with stakeholders and relevant institutions.
Represent, with approval from the Country Vice President and National Secretary; the organisation at meetings, workshops and similar events and provide reports to the National Executive Committee.
Perform other duties as assigned by the National President/Country Vice President, the National Secretary and other National Officers.

The successful candidate will carry out the following tasks:

Under the supervision of the National Executive Committee, provide technical leadership on the implementation of the project in the state.
Plan and implement project activities in close collaboration with the resident FIDA state branches and proactively deal with arising challenges, nuances or changes.
In collaboration with the national executive committee; develop and maintain stakeholder and network relationships which are essential to the successful implementation of the project.
Develop and prepare project and activity reports, technical briefings, background papers and update notes for the project in the state.
Contribute to the adherence to donor/grant requirements, including financial standards.
Collaborate with the accounts staff to ensure the proper management of financial records, including the provision of complete documentation for requests and retirements.
Support the smooth and effective flow of communication with FIDA Nigeria and the state branch.
Support the other project staff in following-up communication with partners, including official letters, requests for technical assistance and the process of identifying participants and national experts, including trainers, for activities under the project.
Represent (with approval from the national executive) the organization at meetings, workshops, etc., and report back to the respective persons.
Perform other duties as assigned by the National Executive Committee.

Competencies

Professionalism:

Demonstrates professional competence in women and children’s rights and rule of law as well as, knowledge of related policies and practices at the national, regional and international levels;
Demonstrates good understanding of the Ford Foundation funded project to mitigate the incidence of gender-based violence, through community-led change, by altering the social norms, beliefs and traditional practices that subjugate women and girls in the target communities.
Demonstrates knowledge of programme management cycle, including monitoring and reporting;
Ability to identify and contribute to the solution of problems/issues with a display of persistency;
Commitment and passion for work and achievements;
Conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines, and achieving results;
Motivated by professional rather than personal concerns;
Display of persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges and ability to remain calm in stressful situations;
Ability to incorporate gender and child rights perspectives in projects and activities and in ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

2. Teamwork:

Proven interpersonal skills and ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with people in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity;
Ability to collaborate with colleagues within and outside of FIDA Nigeria to achieve organizational goals;
Ability to solicit inputs by genuinely valuing the ideas and expertise of others;
Willingness to learn from others;
Support and act in accordance with team and organizational decisions;

3. Planning & Organizing:

Ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate, and monitor work while prioritizing competing demands;
Ability to work on tight deadlines;
Knowledge and skill on how to develop clear goals consistent with agreed strategies;
Foresight for risks and contingencies when planning;
Ability to monitor and adjust plans and projects as necessary;
Ability to use time efficiently.

4. Communication:

Ability to write in a clear and concise manner and to communicate effectively with a range of audiences, including ability to prepare reports and make presentations in a variety of fora;
Ability to conduct presentations by clearly formulating positions on issues, articulating options concisely, conveying maximum necessary information as well as making and defending recommendations.

Job Requirements

1. Experience:

7 years’ work experience in any of the thematic areas of sexual and gender-based violence; gender equality and social inclusion; democracy and governance; women and youth empowerment; and trafficking in persons and human rights.
Experience in project implementation.
Certification in project management is desireable.

2. Education:

Master’s degree in any of the following: Law, Political Science, Development Studies, International Relations or any discipline in the Social Sciences.

3. Languages: Fluency in written and spoken English & any prominent local language spoken in the state is desirable.

Qualified candidates should fill the google form via: https://bit.ly/3H2VMAD

Deadline: January 3, 2022.

Interested and qualified candidates should apply using this link:

BlogDecember 24, 20210 comments

by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria invites Applications for Programme Officer

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is a non-profit, non-governmental organization made up of over 3,500 female lawyers with several years’ experience in utilizing the law to address social problems in Nigeria. The organization’s mandate is the enhancement, promotion, protection, and preservation of the rights and welfare of women and children in Nigeria FIDA Nigeria implements key projects and activities aimed at providing access to justice to indigent persons, particularly women and children.

FIDA Nigeria is recruiting to fill the position below:

Job title: Programme Officer

Locations: Bauchi, Katsina and Osun

Vacancy Type: One-year fixed-term, renewable

The individuals will work on the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) funded program- Nigeria Strengthening Civic Advocacy and Local Engagement (SCALE) project, with technical support from the Palladium Group. The program will focus on strengthening capacity and working with stakeholders to address social norms that encourage Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and Child, Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM) in the community; and empowering (through capacity building) community paralegals to respond to incidences of SGBV, CEFM and trafficking in persons.

FIDA will prioritize the identification of local civil society organizations and community-based organizations for the purpose of strengthening their capacity to respond to victims/survivors psychosocial needs, legal aid drive and key prevention interventions aimed at curbing SGBV, CEFM, TIP and related abuses that affect vulnerable groups.

The programme officer will work under the overall guidance and supervision of FIDA Nigeria National President/Country Vice President, National Secretary and other National Executives, and report to them through the Programme Manager.

Duties and Responsibilities

The successful candidate will carry out the following tasks:

Under the supervision of the programme manager, provide technical leadership on the implementation of the project in the state.
Plan and implement project activities in the state in close collaboration with the resident FIDA state branch and proactively deal with arising challenges, nuances or changes.
In collaboration with the resident FIDA state branch, develop and maintain stakeholder and network relationships which are essential to the successful implementation of the project.
Develop and prepare project and activity reports, technical briefings, background papers and update notes for the project in the state.
Contribute to the adherence to donor/grant requirements, including financial standards.
Collaborate with the accounts staff to ensure the proper management of financial records, including the provision of complete documentation for requests and retirements.
Support the smooth and effective flow of communication with FIDA Nigeria and the state branch.
Support the programme manager and other project staff in following-up communication with partners, including official letters, requests for technical assistance and the process of identifying participants and national experts, including trainers, for activities under the project.
Represent (with approval from the branch chairperson and program manager) the state branch at meetings, workshops, etc., and report back to the respective persons.
Perform other duties as assigned by the National Executive Committee, branch chairperson or programme manager.

Competencies

Professionalism:

Demonstrates professional competence in women and children’s rights and rule of law as well as, knowledge of related policies and practices at the national, regional and international levels;
Demonstrates good understanding of the Ford Foundation-funded project to mitigate the incidence of gender-based violence, through community-led change, by altering the social norms, beliefs and traditional practices that subjugate women and girls in the target communities.
Demonstrates knowledge of programme management cycle, including monitoring and reporting;
Ability to identify and contribute to the solution of problems/issues with a display of persistency;
Commitment and passion for work and achievements;
Conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines, and achieving results;
Motivated by professional rather than personal concerns;
Display of persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges and ability to remain calm in stressful situations;
Ability to incorporate gender and child rights perspectives in projects and activities and in ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

2. Teamwork:

Proven interpersonal skills and ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with people in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity;
Ability to collaborate with colleagues within and outside of FIDA Nigeria to achieve organizational goals;
Ability to solicit inputs by genuinely valuing the ideas and expertise of others;
Willingness to learn from others;
Support and act in accordance with team and organizational decisions;

3. Planning & Organizing:

Ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate, and monitor work while prioritizing competing demands;
Ability to work on tight deadlines;
Knowledge and skill on how to develop clear goals consistent with agreed strategies;
Foresight for risks and contingencies when planning;
Ability to monitor and adjust plans and projects as necessary;
Ability to use time efficiently.

4. Communication:

Ability to write in a clear and concise manner and to communicate effectively with a range of audiences, including ability to prepare reports and make presentations in a variety of fora;
Ability to conduct presentations by clearly formulating positions on issues, articulating options concisely, conveying maximum necessary information as well as making and defending recommendations.

Job Requirements

1. Minimum required experience:

3 years’ work experience in the thematic areas of gender equality and social inclusion, trafficking in persons and human rights.
Experience working in the criminal justice sector.
Experience in project implementation.

2. Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree in any of the following: Law, Political Science or any discipline in the Social Sciences.

3. Languages: Fluency in written and spoken English & any prominent local language spoken in the state is desirable.

Qualified candidates should send curriculum vitae and cover letter addressed to the Country Vice-President/National President to hr@fida.org.ng

Subject of e-mail should be “Application for the Position of Programme Officer [State]”. e.g., “Application for the Position of Program Officer (Bayelsa)”.

Deadline: December 21, 2021.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

BlogDecember 7, 20210 comments

by FIDA

FIDA Demands Prompt Justice for Sylvester and Insists on A Complete Thorough and Objective Investigation into All Aspects of The Case

A most unfortunate death of a young twelve-year-old boy sent to school (Dowen College, Lagos) to be educated; where he should have been cared for and protected yet the system failed him and he died in suspicious circumstances.

It was with a rude shock that FIDA Nigeria viewed the video that has gone viral of Sylvester Oromoni Jr. who was purportedly bullied and tortured while in school eventually leading to his untimely death.

FIDA Nigeria has noticed that the trend of violence by and to children and youth in institutions of learning is becoming rampant and must be checked and stopped forthwith.

Reference is here made to the recent incident of a) 11-year-old Don Davies Archibong in Deeper Life High School, Idoro, Uyo Akwa Ibom State and b) 14-year-old, Keren-Happuch Aondodoo Akpagher, a Senior Secondary School (SSS1) student of Premiere Academy Lugbe, Abuja raped in her dormitory and so forth, who have suffered similar violence resulting in grievous injury and death

These terrible tales emanating from secondary schools across the nation are an indication of a failing system in dire need of overhauling. The grave situation must be addressed with utmost urgency

Article 19 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) clearly states that children have the right to be protected from physical and mental violence, neglect, sexual abuse and exploitation, while they are in the care of parents or any other person. Article 3 para. 2 gives the child the right to such protection and care as is necessary for his or her well-being

A child has the right to be protected from physical and mental violence, neglect, sexual abuse and exploitation, while they are in the care of parents or any other person. Article 3 para. 2 gives the child the right to such protection and care as is necessary for his or her well-being Article 19 UNCRC. They are vulnerable and must be protected

Child’s Rights Act (CRA) 2003 also provide and protect the rights of a Nigerian child

As all well-meaning Nigerians mourn this terrible death of Sylvester, FIDA Nigeria joins in condoling with the family over this great and unfortunate loss of a young child with great promise for a bright future

FIDA joins in shouting out against this evil trend of corporal punishment, bullying and the maltreatment of children in institutions of learning; This evil trend must stop NOW!

As we carry out 16 days of activism on ending violence in our communities NOW, it is clear from our schools’ outreaches in the different states that the educational system needs quick intervention as vulnerable children (even in schools) suffer great violence from persons of authority over them and indeed fellow schoolmates. The Educational sector is failing and there is an urgent need to address it immediately.

FIDA categorically states that the total well-being of our children matters and education Is not just about getting excellent grades and the economic benefits that accrue to institutions, but about balancing academic performance against good character formation. Attention must also be paid to addressing forthwith the issue of cultism and fraternities in our schools, the system must be sanitized

FIDA demands:
– Prompt justice for Sylvester and insists on a complete thorough and objective investigation into all aspects of the case, (and indeed other recently reported cases), to determine the culpability of management, the truants involved and so forth, such that no one is shielded from investigation or punishment
– that the Ministry of Education must take responsibility and act quickly in promptly addressing key issues affecting schools generally.
– the Federal and State Government should overhaul the educational facilities/ system with a view to instilling high morals and other standards, which will deter evil actors of crimes such as this.
– parents working with schools should be proactive to teach and insist on good values, integrity and good character but above all, respect and dignity for persons (even as children) rather than shielding them

– proper and effective medical support in schools including psychological assessment for the well-being of a child in school. A child should not be so frightened that he/she cannot lodge a report to school authorities or parents
– comprehensive school policies must be immediately put in place to tackle such key issues, with protective brackets at different levels for the vulnerable children, rather than a situation of ignoring and covering up reports
– Set high standards of operations in institutions with requisite checks and balances which are imperative

May God grant the soul of Sylvester and indeed all the vulnerable children who have died in such similar circumstances perfect rest (Amen).

FIDA Nigeria strongly condemns the dastardly act against Sylvester; and
Encourages children to Speak Out
We demand justice for Sylvester Oromoni Jr.

Signed for FIDA Nigeria:

Amina Suzanah Agbaje (Mrs)
Country Vice/National President
FIDA Nigeria

Christiana Oyanvutu Adejumo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria

BlogDecember 7, 20210 comments

by FIDA

FIDA Nigeria invites Applications for Programme Officer

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation made up of over 3,500 female lawyers with several years’ experience in utilizing the law to address social problems in Nigeria. The organization’s mandate is the enhancement, promotion, protection and preservation of the rights and welfare of women and children in Nigeria FIDA Nigeria implements key projects and activities aimed at providing access to justice to indigent persons, particularly women and children.

FIDA Nigeria is recruiting to fill the position below:

Job title: Programme Officer

Locations: Bayelsa, Kano, Rivers

Vacancy Type: One-year fixed term, renewable

The individual will work on the MacArthur Foundation funded project – “Strengthening Collaboration Among Criminal Justice Actors to Deepen the Criminal Justice Architecture to Ensure the Effective Implementation of the ACJA/ ACJLS”. The project seeks to strengthen the collaboration between the Bar, Bench, Correctional Service and the Nigerian Police Force to institutionalize the gains of the network which was created in Phase One of the project, and to ensure the effective implementation of the ACJA/ ACJLs in the focal states through engagements and with members of the network, the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committees (ACJMCs) and other criminal justice actors/stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities

The successful candidate will carry out the following tasks:

Under the supervision of the programme manager, provide technical leadership on the implementation of the project in the state.
Plan and implement project activities in the state in close collaboration with the resident FIDA state branch and proactively deal with arising challenges, nuances or changes.
In collaboration with the resident FIDA state branch, develop and maintain stakeholder and network relationships which are essential to the successful implementation of the project.
Develop and prepare project and activity reports, technical briefings, background papers and update notes for the project in the state.
Contribute to the adherence to donor/grant requirements, including financial standards.
Collaborate with the accounts staff to ensure the proper management of financial records, including the provision of complete documentation for requests and retirements.
Support the smooth and effective flow of communication with FIDA Nigeria and the state branch.
Support the programme manager and other project staff in following-up communication with partners, including official letters, requests for technical assistance and the process of identifying participants and national experts, including trainers, for activities under the project.
Represent (with approval from the branch chairperson and program manager) the state branch at meetings, workshops, etc., and report back to the respective persons.
Perform other duties as assigned by the National Executive Committee, branch chairperson or programme manager.

Competencies

Professionalism:

Demonstrates professional competence in women and children’s rights and rule of law as well as, knowledge of related policies and practices at the national, regional and international levels;
Demonstrates good understanding of the Ford Foundation funded project to mitigate the incidence of gender-based violence, through community-led change, by altering the social norms, beliefs and traditional practices that subjugate women and girls in the target communities.
Demonstrates knowledge of programme management cycle, including monitoring and reporting;
Ability to identify and contribute to the solution of problems/issues with a display of persistency;
Commitment and passion for work and achievements;
Conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines, and achieving results;
Motivated by professional rather than personal concerns;
Display of persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges and ability to remain calm in stressful situations;
Ability to incorporate gender and child rights perspectives in projects and activities and in ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

2. Teamwork:

Proven interpersonal skills and ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with people in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity;
Ability to collaborate with colleagues within and outside of FIDA Nigeria to achieve organizational goals;
Ability to solicit inputs by genuinely valuing the ideas and expertise of others;
Willingness to learn from others;
Support and act in accordance with team and organizational decisions;

3. Planning & Organizing:

Ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate, and monitor work while prioritizing competing demands;
Ability to work on tight deadlines;
Knowledge and skill on how to develop clear goals consistent with agreed strategies;
Foresight for risks and contingencies when planning;
Ability to monitor and adjust plans and projects as necessary;
Ability to use time efficiently.

4. Communication:

Ability to write in a clear and concise manner and to communicate effectively with a range of audiences, including ability to prepare reports and make presentations in a variety of fora;
Ability to conduct presentations by clearly formulating positions on issues, articulating options concisely, conveying maximum necessary information as well as making and defending recommendations.

Job Requirements

1. Minimum required experience:

3 years’ work experience in advocacy for legal reform, human rights, governance and anti-corruption legislation.
Experience working in the criminal justice sector.
Experience in project implementation.

2. Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree in any of the following: Law, Political Science or any discipline in the Social Sciences.

3. Languages: Fluency in written and spoken English & any prominent local language spoken in the state is desirable.

Qualified candidates should send curriculum vitae and cover letter addressed to the Country Vice-President/National President to hr@fida.org.ng

Subject of e-mail should be “Application for the Position of Programme Officer [State]”. e.g., “Application for the Position of Program Officer (Kano)”.

Deadline: December 17, 2021.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

BlogDecember 3, 20210 comments

by FIDA

Day 4 FIDA Nigeria AGC

On Saturday, 27^th of November, 2021; the day’s activity began with physical exercise to help members keep fit.

This was followed by the AGM proper where reports were presented and adopted showcasing the quantum leaps in FIDA in the past three years of operations. The executive committee led by Rhoda Prevail Tyoden took a bow as their tenure ended with accolades. Elections were held afterward to constitute the new executive committee.

The day ended with an award night/dinner held at M&M Event center Abuja. Awards were presented to outstanding and deserving individuals and branches. While the newly elected National Executive took their oath of office and were formally inaugurated.

Abuja, Blog, Branch ActivitiesDecember 3, 20210 comments

by FIDA

Day 3 FIDA Nigeria AGC

On the 26th of November, 2021, FIDA Nigeria began her activities with an Advocacy Walk to the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation in commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

The walk was led by the Country Vice President, with representatives of all branches in attendance. The representative of the AGF warmly received FIDA’s message delivered by the CVP promising to attend to the request. The National Publicity Secretary, Eliana Martins, gave the vote of thanks on behalf of FIDA.

The afternoon session for the day had four focus areas for discussion with plenaries.

Using mediation as a tool in handling Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) anchored by Rosemary Chikwendi
Honing litigation skills for efficiency in handling Sexual and Gender-based Violence (SGBV) anchored by Ogechi Abu
Leveraging technology for efficiency in handling Sexual and Gender-based Violence, speaker Jude Ifesemen
FIDA and the Protection of Women’s Rights: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow (an integral discourse). Speaker Chimdy Onyedim-Etuwewe

This was followed with the Jummat prayer.

A novelty football match between Y.C Maikyau Strikers Vs FIDA Nigeria Babes at the King Turf Arena (Panorama Gardens Al-Fayyum street, Wuse Zone 3 Abuja). FIDA Babes emerged victorious bringing the trophy home with the score 4-1

Later that evening was a variety night where fidans dressed in their cultural attires entertained and were also entertained by a cultural troupe from Jos Plateau State.

Abuja, BlogNovember 26, 20210 comments

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