by FIDALeading with Purpose: FIDA Nigeria Strengthens Ethical Leadership Across Five Training Hubs
Leading with Purpose: FIDA Nigeria Strengthens Ethical Leadership Across Five Training Hubs
Leadership is not only about holding a position—it is about holding a purpose.
In a time when institutions are increasingly tested by shifting realities, public expectations, and evolving social challenges, FIDA Nigeria continues to demonstrate that strong organizations are built by leaders who are ethical, resilient, and intentional. It was in this spirit that the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA Nigeria) successfully convened its Annual Zonal Leadership Training themed “Leading with Purpose: Building Ethical, Resilient and Influential Leaders for Sustainable Impact.”
To ensure inclusion, accessibility, and robust participation, the leadership training was conducted across five strategic locations, bringing members together within their respective zones for an intensive learning and leadership-building experience. The training locations were Owerri (Imo State), Asaba (Delta State), Oshogbo (Osun State), Yola (Adamawa State), and Kaduna (Kaduna State). The programme took place within the period of Thursday 5th to Sunday 8th February, 2026, with structured arrival and onboarding on the first day, two days of intensive training sessions, and departures on the final day.
Across all training hubs, sessions commenced with formal opening procedures including the rendition of the National Anthem, FIDA Anthem, and Women’s Anthem, followed by welcome remarks, introductions, and guidance on training expectations. A key strength of the programme was its deliberate focus on measurable outcomes. Participants completed pre-evaluation and post-evaluation assessments, reinforcing FIDA Nigeria’s commitment to continuous learning, accountability, and evidence-based capacity development.
The training was delivered through a structured blend of expert presentations, scenario-based learning, interactive discussions, and group work exercises. This approach ensured that participants not only gained knowledge but also developed the confidence and clarity required to apply leadership principles directly within branch operations. Participants were trained on managing change and strengthening organizational development as leaders, while also deepening their understanding of attaining FIDA’s objectives through legal frameworks such as litigation, mediation, advocacy, sensitization, law review, and reform.
The programme further strengthened participants’ capacity in operational effectiveness, with sessions focused on practical tools for achieving FIDA Nigeria’s mandate, including office systems, personnel management, resource coordination, digital platforms, and IT. Participants also engaged in discussions on FIDA Nigeria’s core values and financial ethics, highlighting the importance of integrity, transparency, and accountability in leadership and branch administration.
In addition, the training provided strong learning on leadership resilience, creative thinking, innovation, and the role of empathy in strengthening influence and team performance. Sessions also addressed communication as a critical leadership tool, as well as succession planning to ensure continuity, stability, and sustained impact within branches.
Beyond the classroom, the leadership training created room for deeper connection and collaboration. Participants across locations engaged in wellness activities such as aerobics, networking opportunities, and shared reflections, strengthening unity and reinforcing the collective commitment that drives FIDA Nigeria’s work nationwide.
FIDA Nigeria’s Annual Zonal Leadership Training 2026 stands as a reaffirmation of the organization’s commitment to building leaders who are principled, prepared, and purpose-driven. By strengthening leadership capacity across the zones, FIDA Nigeria continues to invest in the people who carry the organization’s mission forward—leaders who can uphold ethical standards, respond to challenges with resilience, and deliver sustainable impact within communities.
Because when leaders lead with purpose, impact is not only possible—it becomes inevitable.
GALLERY
FIDA Nigeria Southwest leadership training hosted by Osun state branch.
FIDA Nigeria North central/North west leadership training hosted by Kaduna State branch
FIDA Nigeria South-South leadership training hosted by Delta State branch
FIDA Nigeria Southeast leadership training hosted by Anambra State Branch 
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria’s Statement on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) 2026
Towards 2030: No End to FGM without Sustained Commitment and Investment
“Every girl subjected to Female Genital Mutilation is silenced, violated, and robbed of her childhood. Yet, the law remains on paper, and tradition continues to shield those who harm. Many girls grow up, become mothers, and even unknowingly perpetuate this harm on the next generation. As 2030 approaches, the question is not whether FGM can end it is whether we, as a society, have the courage to act. Change must start with us. Girls cannot wait. Justice cannot wait. Commitment must no longer be words; it must be action.”
Nigeria has made notable progress through the enactment of laws prohibiting FGM, including the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act) 2015 at the federal level, alongside state-specific anti-FGM laws in Lagos, Ogun, Ekiti, and several other states. Relevant policies aimed at prevention, protection, and response are in place, and sensitization and advocacy efforts have grown stronger over the years.
Yet, FGM persists often hidden, normalized, and largely unpunished. It is within this troubling gap between law and practice that society continues to fail girls, who suffer in silence despite the existence of protective frameworks.
The Pain Behind the Promise of Protection
Behind every law, every policy, and every statistic is a girl whose childhood was interrupted—and whose voice was ignored.
In a small community in Osun State, Morounkeji was eight years old when she was woken before dawn and told to follow her aunt. She trusted the adults around her. She did not understand why everyone kept saying, “Be strong.” After that day, she stopped laughing the way she used to. She avoided questions. When she cried at night, she was told not to speak of it “It has been done.” The law existed. Protection existed on paper. But no one came for Morounkeji. Silence became her shield, and her prison.
In Imo State, Chiamaka is now a young woman, but parts of her are still stuck in that moment she was never allowed to question. “They said it was for my good,” she says quietly, “so I learned to believe my pain did not matter.” She grew up knowing something was taken from her without her consent, without explanation, without justice. Even today, she speaks carefully, because survivors are often taught that remembering is dangerous and speaking is disobedience.
These are not isolated stories. They are repeated across communities where FGM is hidden behind tradition and protected by fear. They are reminders that when enforcement is weak, the law abandons the very girls it was meant to protect. Every unpunished act of FGM is a betrayal of trust. Every survivor forced into silence is evidence of justice delayed—and denied.
FGM continues because silence protects perpetrators and weak enforcement weakens the law. Every unpunished act represents a failure of justice. Every untold story of suffering is evidence that society has not yet done enough.
FGM is a crime. It is not culture. It is not tradition. It is harm. Human rights are non-negotiable, and no custom can justify violence against girls.
Every girl deserves protection.
Every survivor deserves justice.
Every community must stand firmly against this abuse.
On this International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, FIDA Nigeria declares: we will not remain silent. We will not allow tradition to shield abuse, nor silence to protect perpetrators. We reject complacency and empty promises. We choose action.
Ending FGM is not a distant hope it is a legal, moral, and societal obligation demanding relentless effort, strategic investment, and unwavering courage.
To achieve zero FGM by 2030, FIDA Nigeria calls for sustained investment in the following areas:
• Target gatekeepers and enforcers of harmful practices: Traditional and community influencers must be actively engaged and held accountable to abandon and denounce FGM.
• Invest in prevention: Strengthen community-led education and awareness programmes that challenge harmful norms, engage traditional and religious leaders, and reach families before harm occurs.
• Invest in girls: Equip girls with information, amplify their voices, protect their bodily autonomy, and safeguard their right to make informed decisions about their health and futures.
• Invest in survivors: Provide comprehensive medical, psychosocial, and legal support. Survival must never mean enduring pain in silence.
• Invest in the law: Ensure full enforcement of existing legislation, prosecution of offenders, and access to justice for survivors.
Zero tolerance must become reality, not rhetoric action starts now.
FIDA Nigeria remains steadfast in using the law, advocacy, and strategic partnerships to protect every girl and woman from FGM until zero tolerance truly means zero cases.
#Invest2EndFGM | #EndFGM
Signed
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAVacancy Announcement: Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Intern
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is a leading women’s rights organization committed to promoting, protecting, and advancing the rights of women and children through legal aid, advocacy, capacity building and strategic partnerships.
As part of its commitment to strengthening accountability, learning and results-based programming, FIDA Nigeria invites applications from motivated young professionals to fill the position of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Intern.
Location
National Secretariat, Abuja
Internship Duration
1year (with possibility of extension based on performance)
Stipend
Monthly stipend provided to cover transportation
Reporting Line
The M&E Intern will work under the direct supervision of the Senior Impact Assessment Officer and the Senior Manager, Programs and Parnership
Key Responsibilities
- Support routine monitoring and tracking of project activities against approved work plans and outcome indicators.
- Collect, organise and maintain accurate Means of Verification (MoV) for project activities.
- Assist in identifying implementation challenges and documenting improvement actions.
- Contribute to evidence-based reports and internal project documentation.
- Compile data and basic statistical summaries for monthly, quarterly, and donor reports.
- Participate in data collection, collation, validation, and review exercises.
- Support reviews of branch quarterly reports under supervision.
- Document lessons learned, best practices, and success stories.
- Assist in developing and refining monitoring tools, templates, and procedures.
- Support basic data analysis and results framework development.
- Participate in project review meetings, learning sessions, and workshops.
- Perform any other duties assigned by relevant supervisors.
Eligibility Criteria
- Recent graduate in social sciences, statistics, development studies, monitoring and evaluation, or related disciplines.
• Demonstrated interest in human rights, gender justice and development work.
• Basic understanding of monitoring and evaluation concepts.
• Strong analytical, documentation, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Willingness to learn and work in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.
Application Deadline
Monday 16th February, 2026
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a CV and a brief cover letter demonstrating their interest and suitability for the role with position as subject title to hr@fida.org.ng. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
by FIDAVACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT: FINANCE OFFICER
VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT: FINANCE OFFICER
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is a non-governmental, non-profit and non-political organization committed to the promotion and protection of the rights of women and children through legal aid, advocacy, capacity building, and institutional strengthening.
In line with its commitment to sound financial management, transparency, and donor accountability, FIDA Nigeria invites applications from suitably qualified and motivated candidates to fill the position of Finance Officer.
Location
National Secretariat, Abuja
Reporting Line
The Finance Officer will work under the direct supervision of the Finance Manager and provide support to the Finance Department.
Key Responsibilities
- Accounting & Financial Records
- Assist in the preparation and maintenance of financial records, ledgers, and reports.
- Post daily financial transactions into accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks and Excel-based systems).
- Maintain proper filing and documentation of vouchers, receipts, and payment evidence.
- Accounts Payable & Receivable
- Process invoices, payment requests, and staff reimbursements in line with approval protocols.
- Support reconciliation of supplier statements and outstanding payables.
- Accurately record donor receipts and other income.
- Bank & Cash Management
- Prepare and post bank and cash payment vouchers.
- Support monthly bank reconciliations and cash counts.
- Ensure compliance with cash handling and expense approval procedures.
- Payroll & Statutory Compliance
- Assist with payroll preparation and ensure timely remittance of statutory deductions (PAYE, Pension, etc.)
- Maintain employee financial records and ensure confidentiality.
- Budgeting & Reporting
- Support the preparation of monthly budget monitoring reports.
- Assist in donor project financial reporting and expenditure tracking.
- Identify and report budget variances to the Finance Manager.
- Audit & Compliance
- Support internal and external audit exercises by providing required schedules and documentation.
- Ensure compliance with organizational and donor financial policies and procedures.
Eligibility Criteria
- Recent graduate or final-year student in Accounting, Finance, Economics or a related discipline.
- Basic knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; knowledge of QuickBooks is an added advantage.
- High level of integrity, attention to detail, and willingness to learn.
- Interest in non-profit finance, development work, and gender justice.
Application Deadline
Monday 16th February, 2026
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a CV and a brief cover letter demonstrating their interest and suitability for the role with position as subject title to hr@fida.org.ng Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria 2026 National Executive and Staff Retreat: Building Momentum for Inclusive Justice Through Strategic Reflection and Planning
“The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.” To this end, leaders and staff of FIDA Nigeria came together to reflect, assess, and chart the path forward for justice for vulnerable groups.
The two-day Retreat convened national leadership, management, and staff under the theme:
“Advancing Inclusive Justice Systems for Women and Children in Nigeria through Access to Justice and Effective Legal Protection.”
Day One focused on reviewing 2025 performance across programmes, operations, finance, communications, and legal services. The session was strengthened by the physical presence of the Country Vice President, Mrs. Eliana Martins; Past Country Vice President (Emerita), Mrs. Amina Suzanah Agbaje; and the National Secretary, Mrs. Rekia Rachael Adejo-Andrew, while other members of the National Executive Committee joined virtually—demonstrating their commitment and strong leadership engagement.
Teams reflected on achievements, challenges, and lessons across access to justice initiatives, survivor support, advocacy, partnerships, and institutional systems. The day concluded with a SWOT analysis, sharpening priorities around coordination, sustainability, and impact.
We laid a strong foundation for evidence-based, practical planning initiatives.
by FIDADENUNCIATION OF THE BARBARIC ATTACK ON 15-YEAR-OLD ENDURANCE SABON
THE EVIL OF FORCED MARRIAGE, AND ALL FORMS OF ABUSE AGAINST CHILDREN
“When a child’s innocence is violated, humanity itself is under attack.”
DENUNCIATION OF THE BARBARIC ATTACK ON 15-YEAR-OLD ENDURANCE SABON
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria expresses its profound outrage and unequivocal condemnation of the barbaric attack on 15-year-old Endurance Sabon in Goska Community, Jama’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
For Endurance, it was reported that simply because her family refused to consent and subject her to a forced marriage, she was brutally mutilated and her hand amputated.
This act constitutes a grotesque assault on childhood, dignity, and integrity. It is criminal, inhuman, and morally indefensible. To punish a child with mutilation for resisting forced marriage is the epitome of cruelty—a betrayal of every principle of justice, law, and human decency.
FORCED MARRIAGE IS VIOLENCE
FIDA Nigeria unequivocally states that forced marriage is a grave form of violence against children. It strips girls of education, health, autonomy, and the right to choose their own future. When a child’s resistance is met with terror and mutilation, it exposes a dangerous and dehumanizing belief that girls are property rather than human beings—a belief that must be totally rejected by society and swiftly punished by law.
A BREACH OF LAW AND CONSCIENCE
The attack on Endurance Sabon is a flagrant violation of Nigerian law and the conscience of humanity. It contravenes the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Child Rights Act, the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
No custom, religion, or tradition grants any individual or group the right to maim a child. Practices that rely on violence to sustain them are not only unlawful—they are morally bankrupt.
DENUNCIATION OF INSECURITY AND IMPUNITY
This atrocity underscores the persistent insecurity in parts of Southern Kaduna. When armed actors can threaten families, abduct children, and mutilate them with impunity, it reflects a dangerous breakdown of protection systems and emboldens further crimes against the most vulnerable.
CALL TO CONSCIENCE AND RESPONSIBILITY
FIDA Nigeria calls on the Federal Government and Kaduna State Government, as well as all relevant security agencies, to urgently strengthen protection measures in Goska Community and other vulnerable areas. The State bears a non-negotiable duty to safeguard children and to ensure that all perpetrators and accomplices are promptly investigated, prosecuted, and punished.
We further call on traditional rulers, religious leaders, parents, and community gatekeepers to speak out decisively against forced marriage and all forms of violence against children. Silence in the face of such cruelty amounts to complicity.
CALL FOR SOLIDARITY AND SUPPORT
Beyond justice, healing and restoration are imperative. FIDA Nigeria calls on Civil Society Organizations, philanthropic institutions, development partners, and compassionate individuals to rally around Endurance Sabon and her family, as well as other courageous children and families facing similar ordeals. Survivors of violence must be supported to heal, rebuild, and grow into the best versions of themselves—regardless of the trauma they have endured. No child’s future should be defined or limited by violence inflicted upon them.
ADDRESSING ABUSE WITHIN CARE INSTITUTIONS
In a separate but equally disturbing development, FIDA Nigeria strongly condemns the wicked and heinous act allegedly perpetrated by the Matron of the Yola Children’s Home against children entrusted to her care and protection. This incident is particularly painful, given the trust placed in individuals and institutions mandated to protect vulnerable children. The protection of children is paramount, regardless of any situation.
We abhor the transformation of a Protector into an Abuser as this represents a profound betrayal of duty and trust.
We call for an immediate thorough investigation into this case such that practicable and effective child protective policies, processes and structures, are promptly put in place while the offenders are punished in accordance with all applicable laws.
Institutions and Officers must at all times be held strictly accountable, failing which this constitutes a grave miscarriage of justice and a fundamental breach of our collective responsibility to shield and protect children. This incident further underscores the dire need for continuous rigorous monitoring and supervision within child-care institutions. Where abuse occurs—especially by those acting as agents or representatives of care—the response must be swift, transparent, and uncompromising.
SOLIDARITY AND JUSTICE
FIDA Nigeria stands in unwavering solidarity with all children facing any form of violence. Justice is not optional—it is a legal and moral imperative. Our Children’s lives must not be defined by cruelty, nor should their suffering ever be ignored, trivialized, or excused.
This denunciation reaffirms a simple truth: a society that cannot protect its children has failed its most sacred duty. Nigeria must choose protection over impunity, law over violence, and humanity over cruelty.
FIDA Nigeria says : an injury to one child, is an injury to all.
With special thanks to the FIDA Nigeria, Child Safeguarding Committee, we continue to strive to ensure a beautiful peaceful society where children can grow to be their best.
Signed For FIDA Nigeria:
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President/National President FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary, FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Flags off 2025 16 Days of Activism: A National Call to End Digital Violence against Women and Girls
FIDA Nigeria Flags off 2025 16 Days of Activism: A National Call to End Digital Violence against Women and Girls
FIDA Nigeria has officially launched the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, calling on Nigerians, institutions, policymakers, and digital platforms to unite in ending all forms of violence against women and girls—especially the fast-growing wave of online abuse.
At the flag-off ceremony, the Country Vice President (CVP) of FIDA Nigeria highlighted the persistent and devastating impact of gender-based violence, describing it as one of the world’s most pervasive human rights violations.
She stated:
“Violence against women is not a tragedy of a few; it is a wound on the conscience of humanity. Every time a woman is silenced or stripped of dignity, we lose a part of our collective humanity.”
For over sixty years, FIDA Nigeria has remained steadfast in defending the rights of women and children. Grounded in global frameworks such as CEDAW, the Beijing Declaration, and the Maputo Protocol, the organization continues to drive national advocacy, legal reform, and community empowerment.
Digital Violence: The New Frontline
The CVP noted that the landscape of violence is shifting, with abuse now transmitting through smartphones, social networks, messaging platforms, and digital communities. New forms of violations—cyberstalking, image-based abuse, online harassment, impersonation, and identity theft—are increasingly weaponized against women and girls.
Though virtual in form, she stressed, digital violence leaves real psychological, emotional, and social harm, often with long-term consequences.
“This year’s theme, ‘End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,’ calls for urgent action to confront and dismantle the escalating wave of online abuse,” she remarked.
Strengthening Legal and Social Response
Reaffirming FIDA’s commitment to justice, the CVP emphasized the need to reinforce the implementation of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015 and the Cybercrimes Act 2015, ensuring that violations in digital spaces are fully addressed under the law.
Across all branches nationwide, FIDA Nigeria will intensify its interventions through:
- community engagements on digital safety
- sensitization campaigns in schools and youth centers
- media advocacy and public awareness
- legal assistance and counseling for survivors
- guidance on reporting mechanisms
- focused outreach to vulnerable and at-risk groups
“To every woman whose voice, image, or identity has been used to harm or silence her,” she affirmed, “you are not alone. Your truth matters. FIDA Nigeria stands with you.”
A National Call to Action
The CVP urged all stakeholders—government agencies, technology companies, civil society groups, community leaders, parents, and individuals—to take collective responsibility in ending both traditional and digital forms of violence.
She added:
“The time for silence is over; the call for action is now. When one woman’s voice is silenced, the world loses a verse in its song of progress.”
She officially declared the 2025 campaign open and encouraged all FIDA branches to drive the movement with renewed energy and determination over the next 16 days.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Decries Persistent Abductions, Demands Comprehensive Strategy to End the Menace
As a nation, education must be guaranteed for every child, delivered in environments that are safe, nurturing, and peaceful, where care and protection are assured so that every child can grow and become their best.
We invest heavily in advocacy promoting education. Yet, when children finally make it into the classroom, what becomes of them?
Time and again, we are confronted with devastating news of attacks on schools and the abduction of students, particularly girls, leaving parents terrified and grieving while school authorities struggle to find effective measures to protect the children entrusted to them.
How many more children must be taken before the government adopts aggressive and proactive measures to end this menace?
The abduction of at least 25 girls in Kebbi State, alongside the cold-blooded killing of a vice principal and a security guard who bravely resisted, strikes at the very core of our humanity. We cannot remain unmoved. This tragedy inflicts a pain that words can scarcely describe.
Communities are deeply scarred, carrying the weight of repeated tragedies. Every new abduction reopens these wounds, leaving families in anguish and entire communities in despair.
A nation that cannot safeguard its children, especially its daughters, within their schools has failed in its most sacred duty.
The government’s foremost responsibility is to protect the lives and property of its citizens, yet the consequences of inaction continue to unfold as communities live in fear with no certainty, no protection, and no hope.
Today it is Kebbi; tomorrow it could be anywhere, closer to any of us. We cannot continue like this. We must rise, united and resolute, demanding immediate action, real accountability, and lasting security in all our communities.
Our children deserve to learn, to dream, and to grow without fear. The time for the government to act is NOW. Let us secure our communities.
FIDA Nigeria strongly condemns these heinous acts and calls on all relevant agencies to move swiftly and decisively to ensure justice and protection for our children. Let us restore safety in our schools and communities.
To the families currently grieving, our hearts are with you.
Act Now. Save Lives.
Signed
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President and National President
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary and Editor-in-Chief
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria, Epe Branch – Case UpdateDate: 12th November, 2025Case: State vs. Ediri Igbudu Melvin (Charge No: LD/24314C)Matter: A Case of Brutal Femicide
Today, the FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch once again appeared in court to represent the family of the late Thecla in pursuit of justice in this ongoing femicide case.
The court sat with both the Applicant’s and Defendant’s Counsel present. FIDA Nigeria was represented by Uchenna Ogwo Esq., Ejadairo Ekpo Esq., and Olorunkemi T. Eche-Olisenye Esq.
However, the Investigating Police Officer (IPO), who is a key witness, was absent, stalling the continuation of trial. The Court granted an adjournment and directed that the IPO must be present on the next date, 11th December 2025 at 12 noon, to give evidence.
The case has drawn significant public and media attention, with social commentator VeryDarkMan (VDM) also in attendance, showing support for the victim’s family.
FIDA Nigeria remains steadfast in standing against gender-based violence and ensuring justice for women and children.
FIDANigeria #FIDAepe #JusticeForEdiri #SayNoToFemicide #AccessToJustice #StopGenderBasedViolence #FIDAStandsForJustice
by FIDATransforming Tradition into Tools for Justice: FIDA Nigeria Leads Engagement with Faith and Cultural Leaders
Through strategic engagement with traditional and religious leaders, FIDA Nigeria is transforming the same platforms that once silenced victims into powerful tools for justice and protection.
At a recent engagement in Ikeja, we emphasized that real change begins when faith, culture, and justice stand together — on the side of protection, equality, and respect for every woman and girl. The forum, supported by the Ford Foundation, focused on shifting harmful norms, strengthening partnerships, and mobilizing communities to take concrete action against violence.
FIDA Nigeria will not relent until every home becomes a place of safety, every community a defender of women’s rights, and every act of violence a thing of the past.
