by FIDAFIDA Nigeria’s 2024 Leadership Training: Empowering Leaders Across Regions for a Brighter Future
FIDA Nigeria successfully concluded its 2024 leadership training on February 23rd and 24th, concurrently held across the North, South, East, and West regions. This decentralized approach was designed to ensure easy accessibility to locations nationwide.
The two-day intensive training, tailored for both current leaders and aspiring ones, provided essential knowledge to fortify FIDA Nigeria’s position for the future.
The event was brimming with growth opportunities and empowerment sessions! Participants engaged in a wide array of topics including Leadership, Team Building, Mediation and Counseling, Organizational Effectiveness, as well as individual and branch SWOT analysis, Advocacy Skills, and more.
Interactive exercises fostered hands-on learning experiences, empowering attendees to tackle challenges with confidence. Through comprehensive post-assessment evaluations, participants departed with a profound grasp of the core concepts.
At FIDA Nigeria, we are steadfast in our commitment to cultivating robust, effective leadership for sustained institutional growth.
Together, we are forging ahead towards building a more equitable society for all!
Northern Zone Highlights
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Epe Branch Advocates Against Female Genital Mutilation on International Day of Zero Tolerance: Her Voice, Her Future
FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch Commemorates the International Day of Zero Tolerance For Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) with a media advocacy journalism .
On 6th of February , FIDA Epe commemorated the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM ) with a media advocacy on Law FM 103.9 .
In discussing the theme for the year : Her Voice , Her Future , Mrs . Abiye Tam-George while speaking on behalf of FIDA Epe emphasized on the need for the survivors of this harmful practice to speak up and challenge this harmful gender norm in our communities in order to eliminate it completely . We must create environments where girls and women can enjoy their rights to health , education and safety . Let’s unite to safeguard the future of our girls.
#FIDAEpe #FIDAcares #StopFGM #HervoiceHerfuture
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Urges Action on International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2024
Theme: Her Voice. Her Future.
Investing in FGM Survivor-Led Movements to End Female Genital Mutilation
Every Survivor’s voice is a loud and powerful cry, calling out for ACTION; collective action to end the vicious cycle of the harmful practice of Female Genital Mutilation ( FGM) in Nigeria.
FGM is an unhealthy wicked traditional practice targeted at girls with no health benefits to the woman. Rather she is exposed to a host of medical complications which includes physical pains, emotional and psychological trauma, sometimes resulting in grave consequences such as death.
It is a serious violation of a woman’s human right, however because it is deeply rooted in cultural and traditional beliefs it has remained difficult to change in Nigeria
The haunting echoes of pain and suffering caused by Female Genital Mutilation demand our collective attention and action.
FIDA Nigeria believes in the strength and resilience of survivors in reclaiming their lives. The scars left by FGM indeed run deep, affecting the physical and emotional well-being of survivors. Persons who ordinarily would have had a full and fruitful life riding to the Pinnacle of their chosen fields.
As the world observes the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation on the 6th of February 2024, FIDA Nigeria stands in solidarity with such survivors and amplifies the theme for this year: Her Voice. Her Future.
“The Sustainable Development Goals contain a specific target calling for an end to FGM. When this practice is fully abandoned, positive effects will reverberate across societies as girls and women reclaim their health, human rights, and vast potential.” — UN Secretary-General
FIDA Nigeria recognizes survivors are not just victims but resilient individuals whose voices need to be heard. Their stories are a good testament to the urgency of our collective responsibility to eradicate this harmful practice.
This year’s theme, “Her Voice. Her Future.”, emphasizes the importance of empowering survivors to become leaders in the fight against FGM.
FIDA Nigeria is committed to investing in survivor-led movements, providing them with the support and resources they need to drive change in their communities.
Survivors are not statistics; they are living testaments to the strength of the human spirit. Their voices matter, and it is time for us to listen and act.
We believe in the positive impact of continued sensitization and advocacy especially at the grassroots through collective efforts to shout ‘No To FGM’ to save women.
Everyone has a part to play speaking out against FGM’ as practiced in your communities and educating the youth especially. Women affected should report to the closest health facilities around you to be properly checked to avoid infections and other dire consequences.
Support women to succeed
Join FIDA Nigeria on 6 February 2024 as we amplify
HerVoiceMatters in leading the #EndFGM movement. Together, let us create a future where every girl and woman is free from the shackles of Female Genital Mutilation.
FOR: FIDA NIGERIA
Signed
Amina Suzanah Agbaje, (Mrs.)
Country Vice President/National President
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Hosts National Workshop to Advance Women and Children’s Rights in Criminal Justice System
FIDA Nigeria held a one-day National Methodology Workshop On the 2nd day of February, 2024, towards firming the tools to be utilized on a Formative research aimed at exploring promising practices in advancing the rights of women and children through the Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Laws in selected states which is supported by MacArthur Foundation.
The research will be used to ascertain progress on FIDA Nigeria and the work of all Criminal Justice stakeholders in providing a gender protective environment through the legal frameworks while also conducting a comparative analysis between the ACJA & VAPP Act/laws in protecting rights of Women.
The tool for the research was developed and agreed by experts in attendance.
FIDA Nigeria held a one-day National Methodology Workshop On the 2nd day of February, 2024, towards firming the tools to be utilized on a Formative research aimed at exploring promising practices in advancing the rights of women and children through the Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Laws in selected states which is supported by MacArthur Foundation.
The research will be used to ascertain progress on FIDA Nigeria and the work of all Criminal Justice stakeholders in providing a gender protective environment through the legal frameworks while also conducting a comparative analysis between the ACJA & VAPP Act/laws in protecting rights of Women.
The tool for the research was developed and agreed by experts in attendance.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Staff Retreat Day 2: Unveiling Exit Strategies, Operational Excellence, and Unforgettable Moments of Fun
Day 2 of the FIDA Nigeria Staff Retreat was nothing short of a thrilling adventure! Dr. Otive Igbuzor set the stage on fire with an eye-opening presentation on Exit Strategic Planning, sparking lively discussions and collaborative group activities. Then, Dr. Benson Olugbuo took the spotlight, weaving his magic on Operational Effectiveness.
The day unfolded with vibrant Departmental Presentations, validating workplans that got everyone buzzing with excitement. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, it was time for Frank Talk by our incredible Staff & National Executive.
The grand finale was an epic dinner party, a spectacular blend of games and karaoke, turning the evening into a series of unforgettable moments.
FIDANigeria #RetreatAdventures #UnforgettableMoments
by FIDAElevating Impact: FIDA Nigeria Launches into 2024 with a Power-Packed Retreat, Focusing on Organizational Excellence and Sustainable Growth
Welcoming the New Year with a bang!
FIDA Nigeria kicked off 2024 with a dynamic two-day Retreat uniting our incredible team and National Executive to set the tone for an exciting year ahead with the theme: Building an Effective Organization towards Achieving Sustainable Milestones
Day one started with a burst of energy as we embraced fitness with an invigorating aerobics session for both our staff and executive. But that was just the beginning! We delved into the heart of our mission with a comprehensive review of FIDA Nigeria’s programs, institutional interventions, and other departmental/unit operations in 2023.
Looking forward, we were thrilled to share insights on “Improving Local Fundraising Avenues in 2024” presented by Ezinwa E. Obiajunwa, Admin/Assistant Program Manager, and Philip Okonkwo, Finance Manager.
Fikih Obaro, our Program Manager, shed light on the 2023 organizational capacity assessment tool (OCAT) to ensure that we’re at the top of our game.
There was also an engaging session on Resource Mobilization Strategies through Grant Making & Sourcing in 2024, featuring the expertise of Rita Lasoju, Senior Program Officer, and Ifeanyi Eze, Program Officer.
Closing the day on a high note, we fostered team bonding through fun games, creating lasting memories and reinforcing our commitment to excellence. Join us on this incredible journey!
Ready to make a difference with FIDA Nigeria? Take action now – stay tuned for exciting updates and opportunities!
#FIDANigeria #NewYearRetreat #TeamBuilding #MakeADifference
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria ApplaudsNigerian Bar Association’s HistoricAll-Female Committee for 64th AnnualGeneral Conference Planning
It was with immense delight that FIDA Nigeria received the news of the constitution of an all-female Planning Committee for the 64th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association by the President of the Nigerian Bar Association Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON, SAN.
This is the first time in the history of the Nigerian Bar Association that an all-female team is put in place to spearhead the planning and execution of a General Conference of this magnitude. All thanks to the progressive and forward-thinking President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). There is no gainsaying that this development will augur well for the entire Bar as the President’s penchant for putting round pegs into round holes in clear recognition of the inherent capacity of our female members is one that has certainly not gone unnoticed. The Nigerian Bar Association as a professional Body with members having various skillsets and capabilities needs to be an association founded on inclusivity and diversity.
We at FIDA Nigeria, an association of professional women lawyers called to the practice of law with the core mandate of protecting, promoting and preserving the rights of women and children through the instrumentality of law via the provision of pro-bono legal services, heartily applaud and commend this giant stride of the NBA President, Mr. Y.C Maikyau SAN, as it resonates deeply with FIDA’s vision and sets an impressive precedent signaling progressive advancement for gender representation within the Nigerian Bar Association and the legal profession in its entirety.
We join other well-meaning members of the profession to heartily congratulate these women charged with executing the planning of the 64th Annual General Conference (AGC) of the Nigerian Bar Association and urge them to put in their best in ensuring that the 2024 General Conference of the Bar is a stellar one in terms of a seamless conference delivery.
FIDA Nigeria shall continue to collaborate with the Nigerian Bar Association and other like-minded associations in ensuring that our mandate which is the promotion of the rights of women; including gender equity, participation and inclusion in all processes of governance is achieved.
Long live the Nigerian Bar Association,
Long live the International Federation of Women Lawyers- FIDA Nigeria,
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
FOR: FIDA NIGERIA
Signed
Amina Suzanah Agbaje, (Mrs.)
Country Vice President/National President
#inclusivity #diversity #genderparity #genderrepresentation #FIDANigeria
by FIDAFIDA Rivers Launches Weeklong Celebration with Insightful Legal Forum: Dame Aleruchi Cookey-Gam Leads CLE Session on Sustainable Development
The long-awaited FIDA WEEK/36th Anniversary kicked off in grand style on December 6, 2023, as legal minds gathered for a thought-provoking Continuing Legal Education (CLE) session. The event featured Dame Aleruchi Cookey-Gam as the lead speaker, passionately delving into the theme “Rebuilding Capacity, FIDA Rivers at 36: Embracing Innovation, Technology, and Opportunities for an all-inclusive Sustainable Development.”
Joining the discourse were distinguished speakers, with Associate Professor Boma Toby sharing insights on “Charting a Path in Insurance Law,” and the third speaker, Mr. Ene Donald, Ph.D., shedding light on “The Importance of AI in Legal Research and Practice.”
Guiding the dynamic discussion was Mrs. Evelyn Membere Asimea, the Deputy Country Vice President of FIDA Nigeria, who served as the adept moderator.
This CLE session transcended professional boundaries, drawing a diverse audience of lawyers, non-lawyers, partners of FIDA Rivers State branch, and Associate members, including students from the Rivers State University and University of Port-Harcourt Chapters. The inclusive nature of the event fostered a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives.
As FIDA Rivers embarks on its 36th year of impactful advocacy, the opening CLE session not only marked the commencement of a weeklong celebration but also set the stage for a collaborative exploration of innovation, technology, and sustainable development in the legal sphere. The engaging discussions and diverse participation underscored FIDA Rivers’ commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive legal community.
by FIDAFIDA Rivers Champions Change: A Chronicle of Empowerment in the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence
FIDA Rivers took an active stand against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) by participating in the impactful 16 Days Activism Campaign organized by the Rivers State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) Rivers State, alongside a coalition of other stakeholders and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). Among the esteemed participants were FIDA Rivers State Branch, Rainbow Watch and Development Centre, D-Ability Initiative, CISHAN Rivers State, Greater Women Initiative for Health Rights, and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) Rivers State, among others.
Themed “UNITE! INVEST TO PREVENT VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND GIRLS” in Rivers State, the campaign aimed to raise awareness and prevent violence against women and girls. The event commenced with an uplifting praise and worship session, followed by opening remarks from notable figures, including Dr. Mary Obisike, the Gender Focal Person for the Ministry of Health, Rivers State, and Hon. Dr. Enyinada Cookey-Gam, Chairman of Opobo/Nkoro.
Distinguished personalities, such as Hon. Mrs. Lydia Owutubo, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Gender, and Hon. Senibo Goodwill Pepple, shared insights and goodwill messages. Dr. Stanley Idakwo, the Programme Manager of IHVN in Rivers State, praised the collaborative efforts and highlighted the significant support from the Local Government.
Throughout the program, informative presentations were delivered by experts, covering various aspects of gender-based violence. Mary Nzeli from IHVN discussed the consequences of GBV, Michael Lenee Gbarale of Rainbow Watch and Development shared responses to GBV, and Hajiya Sally from NAPTIP focused on child trafficking. Representatives from FIDA, Rivers State, shed light on the legal implications of GBV, while Dr. K. U. Nwanyanwu addressed the intersection of GBV and disability rights.
The impactful event reached its zenith with Hon. Senibo Goodwill Pepple emphasizing the importance of collaboration and unity in eradicating violence against women, girls, and men. The team extended their efforts to Nkoro Town, replicating the success of the program.
In conclusion, the 16 Days Activism Campaign against Gender-Based Violence, orchestrated by the Rivers State Ministry of Health with IHVN’s support and collaboration with NGOs, represents a pivotal stride in raising awareness and preventing gender-based violence in Rivers State. This collective effort holds the promise of fostering a safer and more inclusive society for women and girls in the region.
by FIDAFIDA Rivers Empowers Opobo/Nkoro Community: A Compassionate Outreach and Legal Clinic during FIDA Week/36th Anniversary
In a gesture of empowerment and community engagement, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, orchestrated a transformative community outreach and legal clinic on December 7, 2023, as part of its FIDA Week/36th Anniversary activities. The event unfolded in the heart of Opobo/Nkoro Community in Rivers State, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those it touched.
The program commenced with a heartfelt prayer led by Mrs. Felicia, the women leader, setting a tone of unity and purpose. Mrs. Adata Bio-Briggs, the Chairperson, then delivered opening remarks, articulating the significance of the visit to the attending women.
A series of enlightening sessions unfolded, delving into the provisions of the VAPP Law, Child Rights Law, Constitutional Rights, and the importance of moral living. The engagement was interactive, featuring a robust question and answer session, ensuring clarity on any lingering uncertainties.
Beyond informative discussions, the community members were offered access to vital medical services. The Engraced Life Foundation spearheaded free Breast Cancer Screening, while the Association of Lady Pharmacists and Nigerian Medical Association Rivers State provided medical checks and complimentary medications. The event also witnessed charitable donations, extending support to those in need.
Crucially, the outreach provided a platform for free legal clinic services and counseling, reinforcing FIDA Rivers’ commitment to empowering and uplifting the community. This initiative not only marked a significant chapter in FIDA’s ongoing efforts but also exemplified the organization’s dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals within the Opobo/Nkoro Community.
