by FIDA

FIDA 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 FIDA

FIDA 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 FIDA

FIDA 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.

Rivers

Kano

Bayelsa

Anambra

Ekiti

CapacityBuilding #PleaBargain #FIDANigeria

by FIDA

FIDA 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.

FIDANigeria #ActionAidNigeria #Sustainability #CommunityImpact #GlobalAffairsCanada #NigeriaWomenMatter

by FIDA

Call for Tender External Auditor FIDA Nigeria

1. General Information:
   The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is a non-profit, non-governmental organization made up of over 4,000 female lawyers with several years’ experience in utilizing the law to address social problems in Nigeria. The organization’s mandate is the enhancement, promotion, protection and preservation of the rights and welfare of women and children in Nigeria. FIDA Nigeria implements key projects and activities aimed at providing access to justice to indigent persons, particularly women and children.
   
2. Information of tendering

2.1 Purpose
FIDA Nigeria plans to finalise a contract with a highly specialised external service provider to provide auditing services. According to Section 29 of the FIDA constitution, FIDA Nigeria shall be subject to the requirements of the country’s law where it has its statutory seat regarding preparation, filing, auditing and publication of accounts. An auditor’s assessment of the correctness of the organization’s accounts will be an invaluable source of support for FIDA members and supervisory bodies, helping them fulfil their monitoring function. The present tender aims to select a qualified organisation specialized in auditing consulting services to perform an economic and financial audit for the FIDA Nigeria accounts and Financial Statements for the financial years from 2024 to 2026. This call for tender includes a description of the required services and instructions to be followed to participate in the tendering process. FIDA Nigeria procurement policy follows the principles of transparency, non-discrimination and competition. According to FIDA policies and procedures, FIDA Nigeria shall treat procurement candidates and tenderers equally and without discrimination.

     2.2. The subject of the contract 

The awarded contractor will be required to perform auditing services to the accounts of the FIDA Nigeria financial years from 2024 to 2026 (three years), stating that the assignment will continue until the approval by the National Executives Committee of the Financial Statements as of 30/09/2026. The purpose of the audit will be to examine FIDA Nigeria accounts and the annual Financial Statements, including the balance sheet of the assets and liabilities and profit and loss account and accompanying disclosures and notes, to gain assurance on the effective functioning of the management and control systems, and to give an evaluation of the appropriateness of accounting policies used and of the reasonableness of accounting estimates, made by the management; the Auditors is requested to provide its professional opinion on these Financial Statements, whether they are prepared, in all material respects, by the applicable financial reporting framework, that is a general-purpose one. The examination will be aimed to check and make certain that the FIDA Nigeria accounts and annual statements are correct and complete. The audit activity will investigate the accounting records, the internal control policies and accounts to ensure they align with the accounting standards. The result of this examination will be an “Audited Financial Statements” expressed by the independent Auditor, representing the Auditor’s opinion on the fairness and appropriateness of the annual Statements of accounts and related disclosures. Regarding the Financial Statements, FIDA Nigeria adopts an accrual-based accounting system by IFRS, integrated to be consistent with the legal structure, activities and scopes of FIDA Nigeria.

         2.3. Duration and maximum volume of the Contract 

The contract duration will be three financial years: 2024, 2025 and 2026. The contract might be renewed, a previously written decision, for one time under specific conditions to be agreed by the parties, in line with those provided in this tender.

The maximum amount of this contract is estimated at N1,500,000 (One million five hundred thousand Naira only) over the three years, divided as follow:
1. The year 2024 = Naira 500,000
2. The year 2025 = Naira 500,000
3. The year 2026 = Naira 500,000 (This includes the first portion of 2027 until the 2026
Financial Statements approval).

It will comprise the remuneration and all expenses to be paid to the Auditor in return for services rendered by the contract. No price revisions to the agreement shall be allowed, except for considerable increases in audit activities required to the Auditor to be agreed between the parties. FIDA Nigeria benefits VAT exemption from the FIRS article. Price is quoted in Naira and will be WHT deductible.

            2.4. Contractual conditions 

The tenderer should bear in mind the provisions of the draft contract, which specify the rights and obligations of the contractor, particularly those on payments, the performance of the agreement, confidentiality, and checks and audits. It is asked that the Audited Account should be delivered to the FIDA Country Vice president no later than 31st October of each year.

             2.5. Standards 

The Auditor undertakes to comply with generally and internationally accepted standards for auditing – International Standard Auditing (ISA) and in particular with ISA Nigeria.

              2.6. Compliance with applicable law 

The tender, if awarded at the time of submitting the offer and beyond over the assignment years, must comply with applicable environmental, social and labour law obligations established by Union law, Nigerian legislation, collective agreements or the international environmental, social security and labour conventions. The exact compliance must be verified about fiscal matters.

2.7. Subcontracting
The Auditor shall not subcontract any portion of the activities or contract.

3. Tender evaluation
   Tenderers must prove their legal, regulatory, economic, financial, technical and professional capacity to carry out the work subject to this procedure.

The evaluation is based solely on the information provided in the submitted tender. It involves the following:
▪ Verification of non-exclusion of tenderers based on the exclusion criteria;
▪ Selection of tenderers based on selection criteria;
▪ Proof of compliance with the minimum requirements set out in these tender specifications;
▪ Evaluation of tenders based on the award criteria.

FIDA Nigeria may reject abnormally low tenders, particularly if it is established that the tenderer does not comply with applicable obligations in environmental, social security and labour law, and fiscal matters. The tenders will be assessed in the order indicated above. Only tenders meeting the requirements of one step will pass on to the next step.

  3.1 Legal and regulatory capacity 

Tenderers must prove that they are allowed to pursue the professional activity necessary to carry out the work subject to this call for tenders and must provide the following information in its tender:

• A certificate of legal effectiveness issued by the Corporate affairs commission, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (chartered in its country and preferably in Nigeria as well) and a certificate of a VAT position.
• A legible copy of the notice of appointment of the persons authorised to represent the tenderer in dealings with third parties and legal proceedings, or a copy of the publication of such work if the legislation applicable to the legal person requires such publication. Any delegation of this authorisation to another representative not indicated in the official appointment must be evidenced.

3.2 Economic and financial capacity criteria and evidence
The following economic and financial evidence should be provided:
I. Statement of turnover in respect of the services to which the contract relates for the previous two financial years of at least Naira 5,000,000 (Five million) per year;
II. Copy of the financial statements (profit & loss account and balance sheet and notes) for the last two years;
III. Evidence of tax clearance certificates for last 2 years.

3.3 Technical and professional capacity criteria and evidence

a. Criteria relating to tenderers
Tenderers must comply with the following criteria:

• A complete description of the tenderer’s references in the Nigerian space. This should include examples of work covering at least three years’ work directly related to these services and products, indicating how the tenderer has carried out similar types of work in the past for public or private sector recipients.
• Evidence of affiliation to a body such as the ICAN, FRCN, the IEA (Institute of External Auditors) or equivalent. In the absence of such an affiliation, the tenderers should demonstrate how they will undertake to comply with international audit standards. The Nigerian tenderers must be registered to the financial reporting council of Nigeria
• The tenderer must ensure that its standards about all security matters including, but not limited to, physical security, data security, and virus protection, are in accordance at all times with the highest possible standards, best practices, and any relevant legislation or code of practice with which they are bound to comply.
• The tenderer must prove their capacity to draft reports in the English language. b. Criteria relating to the team delivering the services:
  The team providing the services should include, as a minimum, the following two profiles:
  Staff. N°1: Audit Senior
  Be an auditor who should have:
• At least five years of professional experience carrying out audit and control activities;
• should have excellent knowledge of Nigerian Laws and Regulation regarding the Not for profit field;
• should have an excellent knowledge of written and spoken English language.
• Status of Certified Auditor and Chartered Accountant; – the statutory capacity to commit the Company in writing (only in the case of companies).

Staff. N°2: Audit specialist

• At least three years of professional experience carrying out audit and control activities;
• should have excellent knowledge of Nigerian Laws and Regulation regarding the Not for profit field
• Should have an excellent knowledge of written and spoken English language,
• Status of Certified Auditor and Chartered Accountant.

The following technical and professional evidence should be provided to fulfil the above criteria: – Technical and professional capacity by delivering Curriculum Vitae of the two team members involved in providing services. CVs should include information on work experience, qualifications, and language ability.

• A list of services proving experience in auditing public administrations’ expenditures, especially not for profit organisations. The services directly relevant to the tender must have been provided within the last three years. The list should include at least five audits with at least one audit of each of the following types:
  – Financial audit regarding Financial Statements drawn for general purposes;
  – Nigeria Not for profit organisation audit.
  The list should also include the amount, date and public or private recipients of
  the services.
• The tenderer should prove the linguistic capacity of the team.

1. Award Evaluation
   The tender will be awarded according to the best-value-for-money criteria and procedure. FIDA Nigeria may, at its discretion, extend the closing date and time of the tender. The selection procedure will be based on equal treatment, fairness, and transparency principles by an evaluation panel.

All applicants will receive acknowledgment of receipt of their tender and will be informed of the outcome of the selection process of their offer by e-mail only within two weeks following the evaluation procedure conclusion. Tenderers should provide a valid e-mail address and contact details in the tender. FIDA Nigeria is not obliged to provide reasons for its decision to shortlist, accept or reject any tender. FIDA reserves the right to conclude or not the tender process and select the successful tenderer. FIDA Nigeria will not be contractually bound to a bidder for this tender until FIDA Nigeria, and the successful winner, has entered into a written contract.

The following offers will be excluded from the tendering procedure:
− Those received after the deadline;
− Those missing information about the professional economic operator or lacking the
requested requirements;
− Those submitted by experienced economic operators whose position is inconsistent
with the law or the procedure;
− According to Nigerian law, those submitted by professional economic operators who
are subject to one of the causes of exclusion.
If the documents delivered by the tenderer are inconsistent with the statements made in presenting its offer, and the award must be invalidated.

5. Accuracy of proposal
   The tender must be clear, concise and complete. Tenderers are advised to check the accuracy of their submission before return, paying particular attention to clerical errors and omissions. Tenderers will not be permitted to amend proposals after the proposed return date except as part of any proposal clarification process initiated by FIDA Nigeria. FIDA Nigeria reserves the right to mark a tenderer down or exclude them from the procurement if their tenders contain any ambiguities, caveats or lack of clarity. Tenderers should submit only such information necessary to respond effectively to this call. Tenders will be evaluated based on information submitted by their tenders only before the deadline for submission of tenders.
   
6. Tender procedure scheduled
   The tender is open from the 11/03/2024 to 25/03/2024.
   
7. Confidentiality and conflict of interest
   The tenderers undertake that they will not at any time, either before, during or after the termination of the service contract, use, disclose, or communicate to any third parties confidential information relating to FIDA Nigeria. This restriction shall continue to apply after the contract’s termination without a limit in time. To ensure the independence of the terms of the agreement, the winning tenderer will sign a declaration certifying that it has no conflict of interest about the tasks to be undertaken and that it will inform FIDA Nigeria should this status change.
   
8. Terms and condition
   This invitation to tender is in no way binding on FIDA Nigeria. Its contractual obligation commences only upon the signature of the contract with the successful tenderer awarded. FIDA Nigeria may cancel the award procedure up to the point of the signature without the candidates or tenderers being entitled to claim any compensation. This decision must be substantiated, and the candidates or tenderers notified. Similarly, FIDA Nigeria reserves the right to reject any proposals, advertise for new bids, abandon the need for services, or amend this Call for Tender at any time before executing the written contract. FIDA Nigeria reserves the right to waive any formalities in the call for the tender process. FIDA Nigeria shall not be liable for any compensation concerning tenderers whose tenders have not been accepted or ranked. Nor shall it be liable if it decides not to award the contract.
   The Tenderer accepts all the terms and conditions in this call for Tender by submitting a tender. The Tenderer agrees that:
   – FIDA Nigeria may copy the proposal to facilitate the evaluation of the proposal and
   agrees that such copying will not violate the rights of any third party.
   – It will not bring any claim or cause of action against FIDA Nigeria based on any
   misunderstanding concerning the information provided or FIDA Nigeria’s failure,
   neglect or otherwise, to give the bidder pertinent information as this Call for Tender.

The agreement for services provided will be completed by signing a contract between the parties. It will include the terms and conditions for the services offered, the terms of delivery, invoicing and banking payment modalities, and the termination of the contract.

9. Privacy Statement
   Once FIDA Nigeria has received and opened the tender, it becomes her property and shall be treated confidentially.

FIDA Nigeria will treat your data with respect. The tenderer can contact FIDA Nigeria anytime to cancel the consent to store and use its data by emailing hr@fida.org.ng
Unless indicated otherwise, the replies to the questions and any personal data requested are required to evaluate the tender by the specifications of the invitation to tender. They will be processed solely by FIDA Nigeria.

10. Contact Person
    Information and any question regarding the tender should be submitted to the Human Resource Manager at ez.obiajunwa@fida.org.ng

Questions shall be submitted in English only to clarify the procurement documents and procedure. FIDA Nigeria may respond to questions or provide information from tenderers but is under no obligation to provide such responses or information to all the other tenderers.

11. Contracting Organisation
    FIDA Nigeria
    Block 2, flat 1, Ankpa close,
    Ogun street
    Area 2, Abuja.

by FIDA

Empowering Young Female Lawyers: FIDA Rivers’ Dynamic Mentorship Workshop Shines on International Women’s Day 2024

Celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8th, 2024, was truly special with a one-day mentorship training organized by FIDA Nigeria Rivers State Branch, in collaboration with the Hygreb Mentorship Project and the Young Lawyers Forum of the Nigeria Bar Association, Port Harcourt Branch.

Honored by the presence of esteemed past chairpersons, judges, and the executive members of NBA Port Harcourt branch, the event was a beacon of support for young female lawyers with 0-7 years of experience.

Kicking off with an inspiring opening remark by the convener of the Hygreb Mentorship Project, Hon. Justice Elsie N. Thompson, we delved into insightful sessions led by distinguished speakers. From Hon. Inime Aguma’s discourse on social welfare to Hon. Justice Margaret Opara’s invaluable insights on professionalism at the Bar, every moment was enriching.

A captivating panel discussion on mentorship featured luminaries from various legal realms, each sharing their expertise passionately. Moderated by the adept Irene Iniobong Pepple, it was a deep dive into the nuances of legal practice, from litigation to corporate law, and the delicate art of balancing life and career.

The interactive Q&A session that followed was enlightening, fostering engaging conversations between mentors and participants. We wrapped up with a heartfelt vote of thanks from the Chairperson of FIDA Rivers IWD Committee, Ms. Felicia NWoke, expressing gratitude for the enriching experience.

A huge thank you to all who made this event possible and to our participants for their enthusiastic involvement. Here’s to empowering the next generation of female legal luminaries!

#WomenInLaw #MentorshipMatters #IWD2024

by FIDA

FIDA NIGERIA COMMEMORATES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2024

The International Women’s Day which is celebrated annually on the 8th of March has historically been a day set apart to celebrate women globally and their achievements. As the world marks this year’s International Women’s Day 2024 with the theme “Invest in women: Accelerate progress,” heightening the call for intentional investment in women and girls in all spheres covering health, their well-being and empowerment, FIDA Nigeria shines a spotlight on the sad reality of women’s continued marginalization and exclusion.

In spite of the campaign theme for the 2024 International Women’s Day being “Inspire Inclusion,” FIDA Nigeria is deeply disheartened by the non-inclusion and discrimination of women in critical spheres. This exclusion is not only a setback; it is a stain on the fabric of our collective conscience, hindering progress and perpetuating systemic injustice.

In Nigeria with the spate of violent extremism and acts of terrorism further escalating humanitarian crises in emergency context, women and children are highly vulnerable and exposed, suffering the brunt of the crises. This is because in every conflict setting, gender-based violence increases while insecurity is exacerbated and this sorry state of affairs compounds the existing inequalities that women already face on a daily basis.

It is premised on the above and in commemoration of this globally important day that FIDA Nigeria highlights the urgent need for collective action to drive gender parity and address the following areas as spotlighted by the United Nations where women are grossly neglected and largely overlooked

Investment in women as a human rights issue: Women’s rights are human rights, yet women are consistently denied access to essential resources, opportunities, and decision-making spaces. This systemic neglect robs women of their dignity and perpetuates a cycle of inequality and injustice.

Prioritize education for women: Females are hugely disenfranchised with respect to educational opportunities and access to same by barriers such as early or forced marriages, poverty, gender-based violence, cultural norms, amongst several other factors thereby contributing to the huge gender gap in education.

End poverty: Women, especially those from marginalized communities, bear the brunt of poverty’s harsh realities. The lack of economic empowerment and access to basic necessities relegates countless women to lives of desperation and destitution.

Implement gender-responsive financing and budgeting: Financial systems are rife with gender biases and discriminatory practices and policies, denying women fair access to capital and resources. Gender-responsive financing is imperative to rectify this injustice and ensure women’s full participation in economic activities.

Shift to a green economy and care society: Women bear disproportionate burdens from environmental degradation. Yet, their voices are often ignored in discussions on sustainable development and climate action. It is time to recognize and empower women as key agents of change in building a sustainable future.

Support change drivers: Women activists and leaders courageously champion gender equality and social justice, often at great personal risk. Yet, they face rampant discrimination, violence, and harassment. It is incumbent upon society to stand in solidarity with these fearless trail-blazing advocates and provide them with unwavering support and protection.

FIDA Nigeria makes a concerted call upon the Federal Government, institutions, stakeholders, policymakers, civil society organizations and all individuals of goodwill to heed this urgent call to action. A world that is equitable and inclusive is possible, where our unique differences are valued and celebrated. Together we can accelerate progress for society when we choose to invest in women, advance equality and inspire inclusion for all!

Let us commit ourselves to dismantle all barriers that exclude and oppress women, and pave the way for a more just, equitable, egalitarian and inclusive society for all.

Take action today! Inspire and Invest in Women!

FOR: FIDA NIGERIA

Amina Suzanah Agbaje, (Mrs.)
Country Vice President/National President

InvestInWomen #InternationalWomensDay2024

#FIDA_Nigeria #IWD #Acceleratingprogress
#InspireInclusion #GenderEquality

womensrightsarehumanrights

by FIDA

FIDA 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 FIDA

FIDA 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 FIDA

FIDA 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.