by FIDAFIDA Nigeria’s Public Presentation of Formative Research Report
FIDA Nigeria proudly hosted the public presentation of a formative research report on promising practices in advancing the rights of women and children through the Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Laws across selected states in Nigeria.
This one-day event, supported by the MacArthur Foundation as part of the “Strengthening Collaboration Among Criminal Justice Actors to Deepen the Criminal Justice Architecture to Ensure the Effective Implementation of the ACJA/ACJLS” project (MacArthur Foundation 2.0), took place at Candellux Imperial Hotel & Suites, Abuja.
The research findings unveiled innovative and promising approaches within the Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Laws, aimed at improving access to justice for women and children. These findings will guide policy formulation and programming, ensuring a gender-protective environment and advancing the rights of women in Nigeria.
#FIDANigeria #MacArthurFoundation #ACJA #CriminalJustice #WomensRights #ChildrensRights #AccessToJustice
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Kicks Off 2nd Quarter NEC Meeting with Welcome Cocktail: An Evening of Bonding and Conviviality
To unwind from the stress of travel and also connect with fellow delegates, the host branch for the NEC meeting, FIDA (Nigeria) Kano State Branch, hosted a welcome cocktail for delegates in the evening of the 26th of June. It was an evening of fun, relaxation, catching up, sharing of experiences and an opportunity to further strengthen bonds under an atmosphere of general conviviality. Laughter and profound conversations set the mood for the evening, and by extension the tone for the 2nd Quarter National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.
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by FIDAFIDA Nigeria’s 2nd Quarter NEC Meeting 2024: Advocating for Justice and Humanitarian Aid in Kano State
The 2nd Quarter FIDA Nigeria National Executive Council (NEC) meeting 2024, held from the 26th of June to the 29th of June 2024 in Kano State, centred around the theme: Ensuring Access to Justice for Indigent Women and Children in Nigeria the 2nd Quarter NEC meeting was hosted by FIDA (Nigeria) Kano State Branch.
Scheduled activities began the morning of Wednesday, 26th of June 2024 with advocacy outreaches by FIDA Nigeria in its well known tradition of impacting the lives of the indigent by a visit to two significant locations:
- Nassarawa Children’s Home (Orphanage), Nasarawa GRA Kano state
This outreach to the children’s home was led by the Country Vice/National President of FIDA Nigeria, Amina Suzanah Agbaje, National Executive Committee Members and a number of distinguished delegates. The delegation was warmly received by the custodians of the home, Aminu Sabiu Bebeji, and Maimuna Hamisu Tahir. The children’s home had a total of 96 children, with about 32 children present during the visit as it was a school day. FIDA made its presentation to the home together with donations of food and other items. - Torrey Home for children with special needs
The FIDA Nigeria delegation to the Torrey home was received by Hajia Farida Idris Usman and her staff. Torrey Home houses a total of 42 children with special needs. During the visit, items such as foodstuff and sanitary wares were presented, emphasising FIDA’s commitment to providing humanitarian and legal aid.
Both outreaches were an integral and consistent part of all FIDA’s NEC meetings, bringing joy and support to the vulnerable and less privileged, while demonstrating FIDA Nigeria’s unwavering dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it the most.
FIDANigeria #NECMeeting
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Observes International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
Theme: The evidence is clear: invest in prevention
Today, FIDA Nigeria unites with the global community to recognise the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking commemorated on the 26th of June annually. This year’s theme, “The evidence is clear: invest in prevention,” resonates deeply with our mission to foster a healthier and more just society in Nigeria while raising awareness of the diverse problems that the use of illicit drugs and substances pose to any society.
Our commitment at FIDA Nigeria in combating this menace is rooted in a community-focused approach, as can be seen from our concerted advocacy and outreaches including various initiatives, such as the Youth Advocacy Program and Women Empowerment Workshops, aimed at educating and empowering vulnerable groups, particularly women and youth, to resist the lure of drugs, discourage the usage of illicit substances and encourage their engagement in positive, productive activities.
FIDA Nigeria’s continuous collaboration with schools, religious institutions and community leaders is geared towards implementing evidence-based prevention programs, some of which include:
- Educational Campaigns: Providing schools with curriculum support and training teachers to deliver effective drug education.
- Community Outreaches and Advocacy: Organizing workshops and seminars in rural and urban areas to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
- Healthcare Access: Partnering with healthcare providers to ensure that individuals struggling with substance abuse have access to comprehensive treatment and support services.
As trailblazers in advocacy, we have adopted a holistic approach to create awareness and address not only the immediate dangers of drug abuse but also the socio-economic factors that contribute to it, We believe that by empowering individuals with knowledge, skills, and support, we can create a ripple effect that strengthens entire communities and the society at large.
We therefore call on Government, policymakers, change drivers, public and private sector, stakeholders, community leaders, and every citizen to support and invest in these preventive measures. By so doing, we can build a resilient society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, completely free from the dangers of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
As we commemorate this important day today, let us commit firmly to taking concrete and visible actions that will pave the way for a future free from the scourge of drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Together, we can make a lasting impact and collectively strengthen our actions for a society free of drug abuse!
Signed
Amina Suzanah Agbaje (Mrs.)
Country Vice/National President
FIDA Nigeria
worlddrugday #stopdrugabuse #theevidenceisclear #investinprotection
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by FIDAFIDA Nigeria on World Day against Child Labour“Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour”
The International Federation of Women Lawyers – FIDA Nigeria, stands in solidarity with the global community on this pivotal world day against Child Labour commemorated annually on the 12th of June. This year’s observance coincides with the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention 1999, and the theme “Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour”, underscores the urgent need to unite efforts in eradicating the scourge of child labour that continues to devastate our nation in its various forms.
The plight of the Nigerian child in the face of child labour is one of profound suffering and lost potential. According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), about 15 million children in Nigeria are trapped in child labour, with about 160 million children involved in child labour globally, representing 1 out of every 10 children. These statistics are frightening as they are not just numbers, but actual children forced into work at tender ages mostly under harsh and often dangerous conditions, deprived of their childhood and the hope of a great future.
Envision the girl-child in a rural village, rising before dawn to fetch water, cook and clean, before heading to a market to sell goods for her family’s survival. She dreams of going to school, but her day is consumed by laborious tasks that leave her exhausted and without hope for an education.
Visualise the boy child in an urban sprawl, working in a hazardous environment in a local factory, inhaling toxic fumes and handling dangerous machinery. His hands, calloused and bruised, tell a story of toil and hardship that no child should ever have to go through. His dream of a brighter and better future and endless opportunities fade with each passing day spent in labour, instead of learning.
These stories are not isolated incidents or mere imagination, but the pervasive reality for millions of Nigerian children. The COVID-19 pandemic which was closely followed by economic challenges exacerbated this crisis, plunging more families into poverty and increasing the likelihood of children being forced into work to help sustain their households.
FIDA Nigeria alarmed by this growing scourge and the severe and lasting impact of child labour on children emphasises on the dire need for change. Deprived of education, subjected to physical, emotional and sexual abuse, these children are stripped of basic rights and their dignity. The vicious cycle of poverty and exploitation not only stifles their potential but poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s socio-economic development as a nation.
Legal Framework Against Child Labour
Nigeria has established laws and ratified international conventions to combat child labour, yet implementation remains woefully inadequate. Key legal instruments include:
• Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended):
• Criminal Code Act
• The Child Rights Act (CRA) 2003: This legislation aligns with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC), setting the minimum age for employment at 18 years and guaranteeing children’s rights to education and protection from exploitation.
• Labour Act Cap L1 LFN 2004: This Act prohibits the employment of children under the age of 12 and sets stringent regulations against hazardous work for those under the age of 18.
• Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Law Enforcement and Administrative Act 2015
• Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015
• Cybercrime Act 2015
• Disability Act 2018: Prohibits the use of persons with disability (including children) for begging
• Compulsory, Free Universal Basic Education Act 2004
• International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions: Nigeria is a signatory to the ILO Convention No. 138 on the Minimum Age for Admission to Employment and Convention No. 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour, mandating immediate action to eradicate child labour.
• Sustainable Development Goal 8 (Target 8.7): Which calls for global commitment in adopting effective measures to eradicate and secure the elimination of child labour in all forms by the year 2025.
However, despite these robust legal frameworks, enforcement is critically lacking and at an all-time low. Factors such as inadequate resources, poor monitoring/enforcement of existing legislations on child labour and societal acceptance of child labour further perpetuate this grave issue.
Sequel to these and with the determination and commitment to stem the pervasive tide of child labour, FIDA Nigeria makes this crucial call on government, civil society organisations, international partners, public and private sectors, stakeholders and every well-meaning Nigerian to urgently address this crisis. FIDA is advocating for:
- Strengthened Enforcement: Rigorously implementing existing laws that prohibit child labour, with violators being held accountable.
- Adoption of National Policies: National policies that address the root causes and heightened proliferation of child labour.
- Universal Education: Education is a basic right, and all children should have access to quality education with removal of barriers such as school fees and safety concerns.
- Increased Awareness: Raise public consciousness and create awareness of the damaging effects of child labour and the non-negotiable protection of children’s rights.
- Economic Support: Government to provide social protection programs and financial assistance to alleviate the economic pressures that drive families to send their children to labour.
The story of the Nigerian child should not be one of labour and lost dreams. Together, let us act on our commitment to build a Nigeria where every child can learn, grow, and thrive in a safe and nurturing environment. The future of our nation certainly depends on the well-being and development of its youngest citizens. We need to collectively act to ensure that the elimination of child labour from our society becomes a reality!
FOR: FIDA Nigeria
Amina Suzanah Agbaje, (Mrs.)
Country Vice President/National President
FIDA Nigeria
endchildlabournow #ourchildrenourfuture #Internationaldayagainstchildlabour #fidanigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Empowers Paralegals in FCT with Essential Training Supported by ActionAid Nigeria
FIDA Nigeria, in collaboration with ActionAid Nigeria through the Women Voice and Leadership initiative, recently conducted a comprehensive two-day training for Paralegals hailing from Kuje, AMAC, and Bwari Area Councils in the Federal Capital Territory. The intensive sessions centered around Local Fundraising/Resource Mobilization and Stakeholder Mapping, equipping participants with crucial skills for sustainable community impact.
Throughout the training, attendees delved into the intricacies of fundraising, resource acquisition strategies, and the art of building strong relationships with stakeholders. The aim? To fortify the operations of paralegal clinics within their respective communities, ensuring greater efficacy and longevity.
FidaNigeria #NigerianWomenMatter #GlobalAffairsCanada #ActionAidNigeria #WomenLeadership #ParalegalTraining
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Condemns Political Exploitation of Girls’ Rights and Welfare
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria has observed with mixed-feelings, some developments arising from the ill-advised plans of the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, to sponsor a mass marriage of 100 poor orphan girls whose parents were lost to banditry attacks in Maringa Local Government Area, Niger State.
While marriage is noble, and any humanitarian gesture that seeks to support or promote the noble institution is commendable, such acts or intentions must be in compliance with due respect for the fundamental rights of either or both parties to the planned union.
The case of these poor orphans becomes even more delicate and deserves the utmost sensibility and responsibility in devising altruistic gestures that preserve and protect their constitutional rights to compulsory education and respect for the dignity of their persons. The offer of sponsorship of a mass marriage in this instance smacks of poor observance of any respect for the dignity of the young girls, and may pose a threat that hampers their right to compulsory education or acquisition of other vital vocational or professional skills that are necessary to equip them in leading dignified, purposeful, resourceful and fulfilling lives.
FIDA Nigeria heartily commends the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, for her prompt intervention in condemning the plans and also commend the grant of an injuction by the Federal High Court, Niger State, against the ill-contrived mass-marriage plans. This twin developments will greatly serve in bolstering the confidence of the citizenry in the sincerity of government, and the readiness of the court to wield its powers, towards protecting and upholding the rights of vulnerable Nigerians.
Though the wise step of the Rt. Hon. Speaker in heeding good counsel by rescinding the mass marriage sponsorship plan is noted, it is hoped that this sad episode serves to advise public office holders, and the general public, on vital informed considerations that should guide any actions or intentions on matters that affect the rights and wellbeing of children and vulnerable persons.
FIDA Nigeria wishes to clearly distance itself from the unauthorized Press Release purportedly issued by the Chairperson and Secretary of its Niger State branch, and firmly place on record that as a non-partisan, non-religious and non-cultural organization, it shall continue to discharge its mandate of protecting, promoting and preserving the rights and interests of women and children without cowering to any political expediency.
It is hoped that the resolved plans by the Honourable Minister and the Honourable Speaker to collaborate towards empowering the young girls is followed through and FIDA Nigeria will be monitoring to observe developments in this regard.
This episode reiterates the importance of our collective duty to hold all persons in positions of trust to accountability, and how such efforts yield gradual successes that ultimately contribute to building a future that meets our aspirations. Kudos to all persons of good conscience who have lent a voice to the respect and protection of the vulnerable, who like everyone else, is entitled to a life of dignity.
Signed
Amina Suzanah Agbaje
Country Vice/National President
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Celebrates Asiwaju Adegboyega Solomon Awomolo SAN: A Legal Luminary and Advocate for Equality!
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria congratulates Asiwaju Adegboyega Solomon Awomolo, SAN, A firm supporter of FIDA Nigeria and all that we stand for, Founder and Principal Partner of the prestigious law firm A.S. Awomolo and Associates.
A beacon of excellence in both the legal profession. As a revered senior advocate and astute barman, he embodies true qualities of integrity, empathy, and inclusivity that define a great lawyer.
His unwavering support for FIDA Nigeria and its mission, coupled with his profound belief in the empowerment of female lawyers, exemplifies his commitment to justice and equality.
As the Founder and Principal Partner of the esteemed law firm A.S. Awomolo and Associates, Asiwaju Awomolo has demonstrated unparalleled dedication to his craft, earning him the admiration and respect of colleagues and clients alike. His role as the supportive husband to Chief Mrs. Victoria Olufumilayo, SAN, Chairperson of FIDA Nigeria at 60 Committee, underscores his commitment to advancing the cause of women in the legal profession.
With a remarkable history of leadership and service, Asiwaju Awomolo’s appointment as the 52nd Chairman of the Body of Benchers heralds a new era of progress and innovation.
FIDA Nigeria is confident that under his stewardship, the legal profession will experience unprecedented growth and development. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for a successful tenure filled with achievements that will leave a lasting impact on the legal landscape of Nigeria.
Signed
Amina Suzanah Agbaje
Country Vice/National President FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria and MacArthur Foundation Join Forces: Statewide Workshop Enhances Capacity on Plea Bargain for Corruption Cases
Throughout the past week, FIDA Nigeria, in collaboration with the MacArthur Foundation, conducted a one-day Capacity Building workshop on Plea Bargain as a means to expedite the resolution of corruption cases. This workshop spanned across FIDA’s implementing states, including Bayelsa, Ekiti, Kano, Anambra, and Rivers.
The initiative was prompted by the success of the National Capacity Building workshop held in Abuja in September 2023, where participants, predominantly comprising criminal justice actors, highlighted the need for state-level training.
The primary objective of this workshop was to bolster participants’ capacity and furnish them with a comprehensive understanding of plea bargain, covering its concept, principles, mechanisms, and challenges.
Follow our updates on this significant endeavor and other impactful initiatives from FIDA Nigeria.
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CapacityBuilding #PleaBargain #FIDANigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Wraps Up WVL Project Supported by ActionAid Nigeria, Paving the Way for Lasting Change in VAWG Response
FIDA Nigeria recently concluded its Women’s Voice and Leadership (WVL) project, made possible by the generous support of ActionAid Nigeria, culminating in a momentous close-out meeting on March 15, 2024.
Gathered alongside our dedicated paralegal representatives from AMAC, Bwari, and Kuje Area Councils, we celebrated the successful culmination of our efforts to fortify mechanisms addressing Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) within our communities.
But this milestone marks not the end but a new beginning! Driven by the commitment of our passionate paralegals, we’ve crafted a forward-thinking Sustainability Plan coupled with a one-year No-cost Action Plan. This strategic move ensures that our impact transcends the project’s conclusion, fostering enduring transformation within our communities.
Stay tuned as we continue to champion women’s rights and spearhead initiatives that reshape our communities for the better.
