by FIDAWorld Day Against Child Labour 2025
Theme: Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: Let’s speed up efforts!
FIDA Nigeria Demands Bold Action to End Child Labour: Our Children Are Not Workers. They Are Human Beings — And They Deserve Better.
Today, as the world observes the World Day Against Child Labour, FIDA Nigeria speaks not just as lawyers, but as mothers, daughters, sisters, and neighbours compelled to raise our voices for the children who cannot speak for themselves.
Too many Nigerian children are still being robbed of their childhood. Some are forced into homes they don’t belong to, made to scrub floors, sell goods on the streets, carry loads too heavy for their tiny frames. They are denied education, safety, and love. And all of this is happening whilst we all look away, or worse still, justify it as tradition, survival, or “normal.”
We cannot keep calling all of these wrongs children learning skills. It is abuse, neglect, violence, cruelty, and inhumane, degrading treatment being meted out to children on a daily basis; it is Child Labour.
Take the case of Bashariya, a 14-year-old girl displaced by armed conflict in Zamfara, forced to live in a camp in Sokoto. She was taken to Abuja to work as a maid by someone who should have protected her. Instead, she was beaten, starved, and burned with fire. Let that sink in: a child, bathed with fire. Today, she is back in the camp, scared, scarred, and silenced.
And yet, we have laws and policies. But sadly, we need better enforcement and accountability. We must be outraged by the ills done to children learning skills, and muster the necessary willpower for quick action.
FIDA Nigeria is calling for more than promises. We are demanding change:
- Immediate justice for Bashariya and every child like her
- Coordinated efforts between social services, law enforcement, and the justice system to stop child trafficking and labor
- Stronger safety nets to lift families out of poverty and reduce dependence on child income
- Massive community sensitization to shift mindsets and reject the normalization of child exploitation
- Full accountability for those who use power and privilege to exploit the vulnerable and voiceless
- Accessible, child-friendly reporting and rescue systems in every state
This Is No Longer About Statistics. It’s About Our Humanity.
Every child is someone’s daughter, someone’s son. Every child deserves a safe home, a good school, and a chance to dream. What future are we building if we allow our children to be brutalized and discarded? If we fail to protect the most vulnerable, what does that say about who we are as a nation?
We can no longer afford to be silent. We must be louder than the excuses. Braver than the fear. Firmer than the culture that permits this pain.
FIDA Nigeria is committed to standing in the gap, using the law, our voices, and our hearts to fight for every child. But we cannot do it alone.
We call on all Nigerians — government leaders, communities, religious institutions, the private sector, and every person of conscience — to rise and protect our children. Not tomorrow. Today is the right time.
Because no child should suffer in silence.
Because justice delayed is childhood stolen.
Let’s work together to stop Child Labour and protect our children so they can enjoy their childhood and grow up to be responsible adults.
Signed
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAA CHILD’S BODY SCORCHED, HER SPIRIT BROKEN – FIDA NIGERIA DEMANDS JUSTICE FOR BASHARIYA
She is just 14 years old. A child.
Her name is Bashariya—but today, she represents countless Nigerian children whose innocence is violently snatched away behind closed doors, shielded by power, silenced by fear.
FIDA Nigeria has received with deep sorrow yet fury, the disturbing report of the case of Bashariya, a young girl displaced by the horrors of banditry in Zamfara.
Forced by circumstances beyond her control, her family took shelter in a displacement camp in Gwiwa Eka, Sokoto State seeking refuge from violence. But little did they know that tragedy would follow her to what should have been a place of safety and refuge.
She was allegedly taken to Abuja (by one Mrs. Fauziya, wife of a sitting Judge in Sokoto), to work as a maid in circumstances that can be allegedly described as child labour/ trafficking.
And what followed was nothing short of torture, as she was allegedly forced to labour under very harsh conditions:
• She was starved.
• Beaten without mercy.
• And in an act so cruel it defies comprehension—she was bathed with fire.
Let that sink in: A 14-year-old girl was burned as punishment.
Today, her small body bears the scars of this wickedness. Her spirit, shattered. Her trust in adults, broken. She is now back in the IDP camp, not with relief—but fully traumatized, fearful of everything around her and silence hanging over her like a dark cloud.
Yet we have protective laws that guarantee her rights; Yet we see her alleged abuser, emboldened by proximity to power, while her family is fearful having been warned not to dare report the crime as “Nothing will happen. We are the highest authority,” her perpetrator reportedly bragged.
But today, we say: Something SHALL happen.
FIDA Nigeria is enraged, and we SHALL not be silent.
OUR DEMANDS ARE CLEAR:
- A thorough investigation of this case including the immediate arrest and diligent prosecution of all person’s involved in this matter, No immunity; No cover-up; No delay.
- Urgent full medical (physical and psychological….) attention/ treatment including proper rehabilitation for Bashariya through a trauma-informed approach.
- Protective Custody and full legal support for the family, to ensure their safety and access to justice.
We call on the relevant authorities to fully implement the Child Rights Act and VAPP Act.
THIS IS BIGGER THAN ONE CHILD.
This is about the system that allows vulnerable children to be exploited and brutalized without consequence. It is about the dangerous silence that protects abusers when they wear fine robes and occupy respected offices.
We must draw the line.
If Bashariya—poor, displaced, voiceless—cannot get justice, then every child in Nigeria is at risk.
FIDA Nigeria is calling on the Ministry of Women Affairs, NAPTIP, Nigeria Police Force, the National Human Rights Commission, and all relevant agencies to treat this case as a national emergency.
TO THE PUBLIC:
Let us not scroll past her pain.
Let us not wait until the next child is burned.
Together let us speak out and Demand Justice.
Share her story. Raise your voice.
Bashariya’s scars are visible. But countless others suffer in silence around us. If we do nothing, we are complicit. Let’s do something.
IN CONCLUSION:
We owe Bashariya more than sympathy.
We owe her justice.
We owe her healing.
We owe her safety from those who think their power makes them untouchable.
Let the law speak loud and clear.
Let the system prove that it works for every Nigerian child—especially the most vulnerable.
Justice must come. And it must come swiftly.
Signed,
FIDA Nigeria
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Mourns Victims of the Mokwa Floods, Calls for Urgent, Gender-Sensitive Humanitarian Response
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is heartbroken over the tragic flood disaster that struck Mokwa, Niger State, on Thursday, May 29, 2025. Following a heavy downpour that began around 7:00 am, the town was submerged, claiming the lives of over 100 people—many of them women and children—and leaving thousands displaced.
Entire communities now lie in devastation. Homes have been washed away, families have been separated, and futures remain uncertain. The sorrow in Mokwa is profound, and the pain is real. Mothers are mourning their lost children. Families are seeking missing loved ones. Innocent lives have been cut short by a disaster they could not have prepared for.
The impact on women and children is particularly alarming. As the most vulnerable group in times of crisis, many women and children are now exposed to heightened risks of exploitation, abuse, and deep psychological trauma. Their safety, dignity, and well-being must be urgently prioritized.
FIDA Nigeria expresses its deepest condolences to the people of Mokwa and salutes the courage of survivors and first responders. We also commend the interventions of the Niger State Government, NEMA, and various humanitarian actors who are on ground.
However, the magnitude of this crisis demands a more coordinated, compassionate, and gender-sensitive response.
FIDA Nigeria calls on the government, civil society, development partners, and well-meaning Nigerians to:
• Prioritize the protection and needs of women and children in all response and recovery efforts.
• Provide legal aid and psychosocial support to survivors, particularly those who may be dealing with trauma, abuse, or displacement.
• Ensure adequate relief and shelter, with special attention to the health, safety, and dignity of women and girls.
• Include women’s voices in all stages of relief, rehabilitation, and long-term recovery planning.
In line with our mandate, FIDA Niger State Branch will be actively working with stakeholders to provide targeted legal and humanitarian support to affected women and children.
We mourn with Mokwa. We stand with its people. And we remain committed to doing our part to restore hope, uphold dignity, and ensure justice—especially for those who are often forgotten in times of crisis.
For FIDA Nigeria
Signed
Eliana Matins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDASokoto Rises for Women: Stakeholders Unite to Back Reserved Seats Bill Across All Senatorial Districts
FIDA Nigeria, through her Sokoto State branch and in collaboration with her consortium partner — with the support of UN Women and funding from FCDO — successfully held five Advocacy Townhall Meetings across Sokoto Central, Sokoto East, and Sokoto South senatorial districts.
These engagements brought in key state-level actors: CSO leaders, union and association heads, traditional and religious leaders, and government officials — all working in shared commitment to amplify the political participation of women.
The focus? Rallying support for the Reserved Seats for Women Bill — a legislative proposal seeking equitable representation by securing 36+1 Senate seats, 74 seats in the House of Representatives, and 108 cumulative seats in State Houses of Assembly for women.
From the Warizi of Sokoto to Sarkin Gagi, from the Office of the Governor and his SSA, to FOMWAN, NILOWV, women politicians, judicial leaders, and citizens across the districts — voices rose in solidarity. The result: a powerful wave of endorsements, passionate advocacy, and a jointly developed Memorandum 📝 to be submitted at the National Assembly Zonal Public Hearing in support of the Bill’s passage.
This movement is no longer a quiet conversation — it is a loud, united call for change.
SpecialSeatsReserved4WomenBill
HerSeatInParliament
SideBySideCampaign
by FIDAAdvancing Women’s Representation: FIDA Nigeria Rallies Stakeholders in Anambra for the Reserved Seat Bill
FIDA Nigeria, alongside her consortium partner FOMWAN, with the support of UN Women and funding from FCDO, was in Anambra State to stir honest, necessary conversations on something that touches us all — women’s inclusion in politics.
At the heart of it all? The Reserved Seat Bill — a crucial proposal pushing for 25.4% of legislative seats to be set aside for women.
This isn’t about handing out favors. It’s about fixing a system that has long left women out of the rooms where decisions are made.
The energy in the room? Unmistakable.
Traditional rulers, lawmakers, labour leaders, commissioners, professors, women leaders, and the media showed up — and didn’t just listen.
They stood with us. Many signed and endorsed the Memorandum in support of the Bill — a clear message that the time for inclusion is now.
Sure, we know challenges may come at the Assembly level. But we’re ready — with facts, voices, and a growing community of Nigerians who know that fair representation isn’t a nice-to-have — it’s a right.
Because this moment isn’t just about filling seats.
It’s about justice.
It’s about representation.
It’s about building a Nigeria that leaves no one behind.
Let’s keep raising our voices. Let’s secure #HerSeatInParliament — and bring this vision to life.
SpecialSeatsReserved4WomenBill
HerSeatInParliament
SideBySideCampaign
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Leads Statewide Forum in Plateau to Strengthen Action Against Gender-Based Violence with Support from Ford Foundation
In Plateau State, a significant step was taken to deepen efforts in ending violence against women and girls. With the support of the Ford Foundation, FIDA Nigeria convened a statewide experiential learning forum that spotlighted critical issues and fostered impactful dialogue among key stakeholders.
The forum served as a strategic platform where traditional and religious leaders, civil society groups, male gender advocates, and state officials came together to assess progress in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV). Through open discussions and the sharing of lived experiences, participants examined successful interventions, identified persistent gaps, and explored new ways to better support survivors and prevent future cases.
What emerged from the forum was more than just insight — it was a collective renewal of purpose. Stakeholders pledged to reinforce collaboration, scale up effective strategies, and strengthen systems that protect the rights and dignity of women and girls across Plateau State.
This forum marks yet another milestone in FIDA Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to building a society free from all forms of gender-based violence.
fidanigeria #EndGBV
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Meets with Head of Civil Service to Strengthen Support for Women, Children, and the Vulnerable in Our Communities
The Country Vice President (CVP) of FIDA Nigeria, Eliana Martins, led a formidable team of distinguished FIDAN Amazons on an Advocacy/Courtesy visit to the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON, Mni. She was warmly supported by the Solicitor General of the Federation, Beatrice Jedy-Agba, alongside several Permanent Secretaries and Directors.
Discussions during the visit focused on key areas including: empowering and creating greater opportunities for women in leadership; promoting diligence, efficiency, and meritocracy in public service; investing in training and capacity-building initiatives; enhancing access to justice and protection for vulnerable groups; expanding legal aid services; and fostering mentorship opportunities for women within the civil service and broader society.
FIDA Nigeria commended the Head of Service for her visionary leadership and the remarkable strides being made through various innovative and progressive programs under her watch.
Present at the meeting were the FIDA International President, Mrs. Ezinwa Okorafor; Chief Mrs. Victoria Awomolo SAN; FIDA Nigeria National Secretary, Rachael Adejo-Andrew; and the FIDA Chairpersons from Abuja, Gwagwalada, and Suleja branches.
FIDA Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to driving forward policies that uplift lives, bridge inequalities, and leave a visible mark on the fabric of our communities.
FIDANigeria
by FIDAFIDA NIGERIA PARTNERS WITH BIG FAMILY 360 FOUNDATION TO COMBAT GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
At FIDA Nigeria, we believe that every woman deserves to feel safe, protected, and heard. In line with this commitment, we recently welcomed a strategic visit from the Big Family 360 Foundation, led by Mr. Joseph Umaru Philip, as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Nigeria.
During the visit, the Foundation introduced SmartRR, an innovative mobile application designed to simplify the reporting and referral process for GBV cases. Remarkably, the app is accessible even on basic mobile phones, ensuring survivors and service providers across all communities — including rural and underserved areas — can connect quickly and securely.
FIDA Nigeria’s Country Vice President, Mrs. Eliana Martins, expressed strong support for the initiative and reaffirmed our commitment to the collaboration. She emphasized FIDA Nigeria’s readiness to work alongside Big Family 360 Foundation through:
• Joint workshops and sensitization campaigns
• Community-based outreach programs
• Capacity-building initiatives for frontline responders
This partnership underscores our shared vision of a Nigeria where women and girls are free from all forms of violence and discrimination.
Change is not just possible — it begins with action. Together, we will continue to champion the rights and dignity of every woman.
EndGBV #FIDANigeria #SmartRR
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Commends the Conviction and Sentencing of Peter Nwachukwu: A Landmark Judgment for Justice and Accountability
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria hails the recent conviction and sentencing of Peter Nwachukwu, husband of the late gospel artist, Osinachi Nwachukwu, as a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for women and children in Nigeria.
Arraigned on June 3, 2022, by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (OAGF), Mr. Nwachukwu faced a 23-count charge, including culpable homicide punishable by death, spousal battery, criminal intimidation, and cruelty to children. After a thorough trial process in which 17 witnesses were called by the prosecution and numerous documentary exhibits tendered, the Federal Capital Territory High Court, presided over by Hon. Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme, delivered a verdict that affirms the sanctity of human life and the rights of women and children.
The court found Mr. Nwachukwu guilty of culpable homicide, sentencing him to death by hanging, and imposed additional prison terms and fines on other counts, underscoring the gravity of his actions.
FIDA Nigeria applauds the judiciary for its firm stance and the courage demonstrated in delivering this landmark judgment. This verdict sends a powerful message: violence, abuse, and impunity against women and children will not be tolerated. Justice will take its full course, and the rights and dignity of every individual—especially the most vulnerable—must be respected and upheld.
We furthermore commend the legal team for diligent prosecution
This judgement serves as great encouragement to victims/ survivors to speak out …. justice is real and it is served, so there is hope.
As an organization committed to the protection, promotion, and preservation of the rights of women and children, FIDA Nigeria reiterates its resolve to continue working with the government, law enforcement, civil society, and communities to ensure access to justice and a safer, more equitable society for all.
We extend our deepest sympathies once again to the family of the late Osinachi Nwachukwu and call on all Nigerians to continue to speak up and take action against all forms of gender-based violence.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Hosts Impactful Forum for Men Promoting Gender Justice in Jos
Last week, FIDA Nigeria, with the support of the Ford Foundation, convened an impactful 2nd Bi-Annual Shared Learning Forum for Men Promoting Gender Justice in Jos, Plateau State.
The event brought together men from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about promoting gender equality and challenging gender-based violence (GBV) within their communities. Held at the Villa Grand Hotel, the forum featured engaging panel sessions on Mobilizing Male Voices for GBV Prevention and Sustaining Male Advocacy for Gender Justice, which sparked meaningful conversations and reflection.
One of the forum’s most compelling moments was the presentation of community success stories, highlighting the positive outcomes of grassroots efforts in GBV prevention and male-led advocacy.
The forum served as a platform for learning, sharing experiences, and strengthening male involvement in the movement for justice, equity, and safer communities.
FIDA Nigeria remains committed to building inclusive spaces where all voices—especially those of male allies—are empowered to contribute to lasting social change.
