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.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Engages Community Men Groups in Lagos State to champion Gender Justice
FIDA Nigeria with support from the Ford Foundation, hosted a 2nd Bi-Annual Shared Learning Forum for Men Promoting Gender Justice 2025 in Lagos State.This groundbreaking event amplified the essential role men play in advancing gender equality and challenging harmful norms that sustain injustice.
Key Outcomes Derived from the Event Include:
✅ Enhanced male allyship in combating gender-based violence.
✅ Insightful discussions on dismantling stereotypes and promoting equity.
✅ Renewed pledges from stakeholders to advocate for policy reforms and grassroots initiatives.
Gender justice is a shared mission, not a solitary struggle for women. Looking ahead, we anticipate deeper collaborations and tangible progress in breaking down barriers to equality. The journey continues!
by FIDABridging the Gaps in GBV Prevention: A Call to Action
The Annual Multi-Stakeholders Dialogue on Gender-Sensitive Legislations, hosted by FIDA Nigeria with support from Ford Foundation, uncovered critical gaps in policy implementation and enforcement in Ekiti State.
Stakeholders—including government agencies, CSOs, and traditional leaders—emphasized the need for stronger collaboration, improved judicial efficiency, and strategic advocacy to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the state. The dialogue reinforced the urgency of legislative reforms and accountability mechanisms to end impunity and ensure the effective application of legal frameworks.
Call to Action
For real impact and sustainable change, stakeholders must:
✅ Strengthen policy implementation and enforcement at state and local levels
✅ Enhance collaboration among government agencies, CSOs, and traditional/religious leaders
✅ Increase awareness and accountability mechanisms to prevent impunity
✅ Push for legislative reforms and judicial efficiency to ensure effective legal application
✅ Engage media and CSOs in strategic advocacy to influence behavior and amplify community-driven solutions
A more protective system is essential to protecting women and girls from violence in Ekiti State. The time to act is now!
EndGBV #FIDANigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Hosts Annual Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue in Plateau State to Strengthen Efforts Against GBV
FIDA Nigeria is currently hosting its Annual Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue in Plateau State, bringing together key stakeholders from government, traditional and religious institutions, civil society, and the media. This critical engagement provides a platform for assessing the implementation of gender-sensitive laws designed to prevent Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), and Violence Against Children (VAC).
Discussions at the dialogue highlight the urgent need for stronger policy enforcement, enhanced collaboration among stakeholders, increased accountability, and strategic legal reforms. Additionally, media-driven advocacy is being recognized as a powerful tool for raising awareness and driving policy changes.
With a shared commitment to eradicating GBV in all its forms, participants are identifying concrete steps to address gaps in existing frameworks and reinforce collective efforts toward a safer and more just society.
Stay tuned for more updates on the outcomes of this crucial dialogue.
FIDANigeria #EndGBV #MultiStakeholderDialogue
by FIDAFIDA NIGERIA URGES A PROMPT INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION OF THE ALLEGED SEXUAL HARASSMENT CLAIM IN THE SENATE
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is deeply concerned by the recent allegation of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against the Senate President: Godswill Akpabio.
While this remains an allegation, it is a serious and weighty claim which warrants immediate, impartial, and thorough investigation. If proven, it would represent a disturbing abuse of power and a direct assault on the dignity and rights of women in leadership, governance, and decision-making positions.
Sexual Harassment within the corridors of power is more than a personal violation—it is an attack on gender equality, a sexual gender-based violence, a betrayal of public trust and confidence and indeed a stain on the integrity of governance. It fosters a toxic culture, where women in leadership are subjected to intimidation, coercion, harassment, abuse, and discrimination—barriers that have long hindered female participation in politics, governance, and decision-making.
FIDA Nigeria unequivocally condemns any form of intimidation and harassment; and calls for swift and expeditious action to ensure that such
injustice where found, does not go unpunished by way of prosecution to serve as a stern warning and deterrence against such threats and acts.
This issue transcends politics. It is about law, justice, and fundamental human rights. The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria guarantees every citizen the right to dignity (Section 34) and freedom from any form of discrimination (Section 42). The combination of the provisions of The Administration of Criminal Justice Act, Criminal Code Act, Penal Code Act, and The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) 2015, explicitly criminalizes sexual harassment, intimidation and abuse of authority. Nigeria is also bound by its obligations under international
law: including but not limited to The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), which mandates proactive measures to combat sexual harassment in all sectors.
The gravity of this allegation requires more than a public outcry. It demands decisive and accelerated action. What is more worrisome is that the allegation is coming from the Legislative Arm of the Government: a body principally charged with the responsibility of making laws for the entire country. It is very disturbing that the allegation is against the head of the third arm of the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in the time and age that the global community avoids such acts like
the plague.
FIDA Nigeria calls for an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation of Senator Akpoti’s allegation to establish the truth and ensure accountability. Silence or inaction will only embolden perpetrators and deter victims from speaking out. We must be able to restore confidence and respect for our government in the minds of the citizens. This will be lacking if the allegation is not objectively investigated and the report is made public. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. Power should never be a shield for misconduct, nor should any woman be subjected to any form of harassment – whether in politics or the workplace or indeed in any sphere of the
society.
We also emphasize the need for protection against retaliation, ensuring that any woman who speaks out does not face intimidation, political persecution, or career setbacks. Women must be afforded the leeway and platforms to speak out their truth without fear of backlash or persecution.
This moment must serve as a turning point in addressing the systemic barriers that discourage women from holding leadership positions.
We, therefore, once again, call for the full implementation of the 35% affirmative action for women in governance to move beyond rhetorics to
reality. We must create a political and institutional environment where no woman is forced to choose between her dignity and her ambition. Women must be given room to render bold and courageous service to the country.
FIDA Nigeria stands firm in its zero-tolerance against all forms of abuse and gender-based violence. We urge all relevant authorities, civil society organizations, the legal community, and the public to stand together in demanding justice, accountability, and a safer Nigeria for women. Every woman, irrespective of her status, deserves to be protected and free from all forms of oppression, harassment, intimidation, abuse, and violence.
Justice must prevail. The time for action is now!
#AccelerateActionsNow.
SIGNED
for: FIDA Nigeria
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Holds Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on the Status Of Gender-Sensitive Legislations in Lagos State
With support from the Ford Foundation, FIDA Nigeria is convening a Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue to assess the implementation of gender-sensitive legislations preventing Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).
In her welcome address, the Country Vice President/National President emphasized the need for stronger enforcement of laws such as the VAPP Act 2015, Child Rights Act 2003, Anti-Torture Act 2017, and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015.
This dialogue brings together religious, traditional, and government leaders to discuss barriers to implementation, strengthen accountability, and enhance protection for women and girls.
We appreciate our partners and stakeholders for their commitment to ending GBV and building a safer society for all.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria at the House of Representatives Public Hearing!
FIDA Nigeria joined key stakeholders and policymakers at the House of Representatives for a one-day public hearing on two critical bills:
✅Amendment of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015 – seeking to increase penalties for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and related offences.
✅ Provision for Widowhood Leave – advocating for dedicated leave to support widows and widowers in mourning and making immediate arrangements for life after loss.
These bills are crucial steps towards strengthening legal protections for women, ensuring gender equality, and promoting social justice. FIDA Nigeria remains committed to legal reforms that uphold the rights, dignity, and well-being of women and children in Nigeria.
Representing FIDA Nigeria at the hearing were the National Secretary, Mrs. Rekia Rachael Adejo-Andrew; Assistant Manager, Legal Services & Shelter Administration, Mariam O. Omeiza; and Legal Services, Shelter Administration & Human Resources Officer, Rahila Dauda.
fidanigeria
