by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Held a 3-day capacity-building workshop for 25 civil society organizations
Three-day capacity building workshop for 25 civil society organizations from Northern Nigeria on Gender Responsive Budgeting, the workshop which held in Jos, Plateau State is jointly organized by the
Palladium Group and FIDA Nigeria under the auspices of the USAID-funded SCALE project.
This workshop is aimed at enhancing the capacity of these organizations in applying gender budget analysis tools in their programming around gender equality and women’s rights, also assist them in supporting gender budget initiatives wherever they exist, while seeking clarity and understanding of the conceptual, technical, and political elements of gender-responsive budgeting.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria 2nd Quarter NEC Meeting
FIDA Nigeria held its 2nd Quarter National Executive Council (NEC) meeting for 2023, from the 21st to the 24th of June 2023 in Akure, Ondo state. The meeting which had the theme “Digital Environment: Understanding Digital Skills for the Overall Development of Women and Children in Nigeria”, was hosted by FIDA (Nigeria) Ondo State Branch.
To kickstart the NEC Meeting, there was an advocacy visit on Wednesday, the 21st of June 2023 to the Ondo State Juvenile Correctional Center. The delegation was led by the Country Vice President/National President of FIDA Nigeria, Amina Suzanah Agbaje (Mrs.), where a legal clinic was conducted for Children in Conflict with the Law. The Hon. Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development Ondo State, Dr. Mrs. Juliana Ocheda, was present at the Correctional Center visit amongst other important dignitaries. That same morning, FIDA Nigeria led by its Country Vice President/National President, Amina Suzanah Agbaje (Mrs.); the National Publicity Secretary Christiana Adejumo; and the Chairperson FIDA Ondo State Branch, Catherine Ogunjebi; were at Crest FM 106.1 Akure for a 30 minutes enlightenment program which was anchored by Mr. Leo Olagbaye.
In like manner, another advocacy visit was paid to the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly called Amotékun. The delegation was led by the Country Vice President/National President of FIDA Nigeria, Amina Suzanah Agbaje (Mrs.), together with the full complement of members of the National Executive Committee alongside other delegates. They were warmly received by the Corps Commander, Ondo State Amotékun Corps, and Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, Fisn, who assured delegates of their safety whilst in the state and reinstated the Corps commitment to collaborating with FIDA. Thereafter, members of the delegation were treated to a familiarisation lunch. In the evening of Wednesday, 21st of June 2023, delegates were further hosted as part of the NEC activities, to a welcome cocktail to unwind from the stress of their travels.
An Aerobics/fitness session was held on the morning of Thursday, 22nd June 2023 to encourage members on the need to keep physically fit. The formal opening ceremony of the 2nd Quarter NEC Meeting followed soon thereafter and had in attendance the Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, as the Chief Host, ably represented by the Secretary to the Ondo State Government, Princess Catherine Oladunni Odu, who doubled as the Chairman of the Opening ceremony. The First Lady of Ondo State, Her Excellency Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu was ably represented by the Executive Secretary of Ondo State Agency Against GBV, Mrs. Bola Afolabi. Present also was the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Ondo State, Sir Charles Titiloye. The Keynote Speaker at the Opening Ceremony was Judge Funmi Asaolu of the Justice Court. In attendance also was Hon. Justice Ayedun Odusola, Chief Judge of Ondo State Judiciary, ably represented by Hon. Justice Adegboyega Adebusoye; Other Justices present include Hon. Justice Olabode Adegbehingbe of the Court of Appeal Ekiti Division; Hon. Justice Bolatito Ajibade of the Ondo State High Court; Hon. Justice Toyin Bolaji Adegoke of the Federal High Court Akure Division; and Hon. Justice Babatunde Adejumo (Rtd.); alongside a host of distinguished dignitaries and delegates.
The session on Continuous Legal Education (CLE) was held immediately after the opening ceremony, with presentations by erudite speakers. The session was moderated by the National Assistant Publicity Secretary of FIDA Nigeria, Shaltha Nachamada, representing the Chairperson of the CLE Committee, Prof. Felicia Anyaogu. FIDA Nigeria CLE sessions are non-negotiable key activities for every NEC meeting. This is in consonance with the association’s commitment to a continuous development of members’ capacity as highlighted in Goal 3 of its 5-year strategic plan, geared towards achieving an innovative and impactful organization.
During the CLE session, a wide range of topical issues were discussed. The papers that were presented include, “The Use of Technological Innovations in Advancing the Cause of the Child in Nigeria” by Hon. Justice Bolatito Ajibade of the Ondo State High Court; “Report Writing Skills: Accelerating FIDA Activities” by Chief Mrs. Olamide Falana of the Girls to Women Initiative and Special Adviser to the State Government on Gender issues; and “FIDANS: Empowerment and Leadership” by Hon. Justice Toyin Bolaji Adegoke of the Federal High Court, Akure Division. The CLE session was highly interactive and educative.
The evening of Thursday, 22nd June 2023 ushered in a glamorous cultural extravaganza with colorful displays by the various Branches from different geopolitical zones. Delegates were further entertained by the State’s indigenous dance troupe on the rich cultural heritage of the people of Ondo state; the various tribes resident therein; their languages; foods; etc. It was a beautiful evening showcasing the vibrant heritage of Nigeria’s beauty in diversity.
All work and no play as they say makes Jane a dull girl. This saying saw delegates on an adventurous hike to the ancient Idanre Hills on Friday, 23rd June 2023 as part of a cumulative fitness regimen.
The formal Business meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) commenced after the hike. At the formal meeting, matters that impact the organization were discussed, alongside a quarterly presentation of reports by the various Branches.
To round up the 2nd Quarter National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, a Dinner/Award night was held in the evening of Friday, 23rd June 2023. In attendance was the Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, ably represented by the Acting Governor Hon. Lucky Ayedatiwa; the Chairperson Closing Dinner Rev Mrs. Funke Felix-Adejumo; the Special Adviser to the Government on Gender issues Chief Mrs. Olamide Falana; alongside other dignitaries. Awards were presented to outstanding and deserving individuals including an Award of Excellence to the Governor, His Excellency Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, which award was received on his Excellency’s behalf by the Acting Governor His Excellency Hon. Lucky Ayedatiwa.
All in all, the FIDA Nigeria 2nd Quarter NEC Meeting, Akure 2023, was a resounding success. Kindly find below links to pictorial representations of all the activities at the NEC meeting for your viewing pleasure.
FIDANigeria #NEC
by FIDAWorld Day Against Child Labor: Social Justice for All – End Child Labor!
In marking the World Day Against Child Labor this year, FIDA Nigeria seizes this significant occasion to remind all of the urgent need to eradicate child labor and safeguard the rights of children, particularly in our communities in Nigeria.
We find repeated infringements despite the fact that Nigeria is a signatory to and has ratified or domesticated conventions that ban child labor; it is therefore, sad to note that Child labor is still on the rise in our communities and we must aggressively tackle this evil menace that stifles the proper growth and development of children
Child labour has remained a pervasive issue that affects millions of children globally, depriving them of their childhood, education, and a safe environment
We demand social justice in this respect. In recent years, the term “social justice” has become just as prominent as “human rights. It’s essentially a concept of fairness, equitable division of resources, opportunities, and privileges in society
“The abolition of child labor is a cornerstone of the aspiration for social justice, through which every worker can claim freely and on the basis of equality of opportunity and treatment their fair share of the wealth that they have helped to generate”
To commemorate the “Day Against Child Labor,” FIDA Nigeria through her 45 branches will be organizing a series of events, including seminars, workshops, and awareness campaigns, to highlight the importance of ending child labor.
We invite individuals, organizations, and stakeholders to join us in this noble cause and effectively contribute to creating a world where every child’s right is protected, and their future secured.
FIDA actively supports initiatives that promote the enforcement of effective legislation against child labour, including the strengthening of child protection mechanisms. We work towards empowering communities to identify and report cases of child labour, providing legal aid and support to affected children and their families in line with the theme “Social Justice for All. End Child Labour!”.
FIDA reaffirms its dedication to fighting child labour through legal advocacy, awareness campaigns, and community engagement. We call upon governments, non-governmental organizations, businesses, and communities to unite and take concrete steps to end child labour and protect the well-being of children.
We firmly believe that every child deserves a childhood free from exploitation and the opportunity to develop to their fullest potential.
Together, let us raise our voices, advocate for change, and take action to eliminate child labor.
Join FIDA and stand against child labor on June 12 and every day thereafter.
EndChildLaborNow
Amina Suzanah Agbaje (Mrs)
by FIDAFIDA Ondo seeks partnership with OSOPADEC to impact lives in the mandate areas
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Ondo State Branch has solicited for an improved partnership with the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) so as to extend its activities to the Southern parts of Ondo State.
The Association made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s Chairman, Elder Sam Erejuwa in his office on Wednesday.
The Chairperson of the Ondo State Branch who led the visitation team, Barrister Catherine Ogunjebi highlighted some of the Association’s activities in different parts of the State. According to her, FIDA Nigeria, and its Ondo State Branch is preoccupied with protecting and defending the rights of the less privileged and championing the course of women and children.
Amongst the specific activities of the Association in various communities across the State include: organising awareness programs on the laws of the land, sensitizing the people on steps to take when their rights are violated, appearing in court to prosecute offenders and to defend victims of human right abuse, and educating opinion and community leaders on how to mediate in minor cases.
Barrister Ogunjebi further intimated the Chairman of the Association’s upcoming National Conference which would be hosted by the Ondo State Branch between 21st and 24th of June, 2023.
While soliciting for the Commission’s support towards the success of the much anticipated event, the Chairperson requested the presence of the Chairman and the Management team at the event saying this would provide an avenue to showcase the Commission and other partners to the world.
While reacting, OSOPADEC Chairman, Elder Sam Erejuwa appreciated the Association for the visit. He lauded the women lawyers for their immense contributions to societal development, promising that the Commission will continue to be its progressive partner.
Erejuwa revealed that the Commission in the coming days would organise a sensitization program in the mandate areas.
He said the program which would be in collaboration with various security agencies is aimed at “changing the mindset” of the people in a bid to drastically reduce the rate of social vices in the region.
Erejuwa looked forward to the active support and participation of the women lawyers in the proposed program as their input would undoubtedly add more value.
In her closing remarks, a member of the team and the Director of the Commission’s Legal Services Department, Barrister Pamela Olowoyo commended the Commission for not limiting its mandate to projects and infrastructures but also focusing on human capital development.
She expressed optimism that the partnership of OSOPADEC and FIDA will assist in addressing the sad stories of the violation of the rights of women and children in the riverine areas of the State.
Also in attendance were Barristers Olubunmi Niyi-Arajuwa (FIDA National Financial Secretary), Bolanle Oladunni (PRO), Yetunde Ademigoke (Treasurer), and Adesola Dapo-Filani.
by FIDAFIDA Abuja celebrates Children’s Day 2023
FIDA Abuja as part of activities to mark the children’s day, went on a school outreach to Government Junior Secondary School, Gwarimpa on the 26th of May 2023, in a delegate led by the Branch Chairperson
The Chairperson in introducing FIDA and its mandate informed the students on the purpose of the outreach which was to celebrate in advance, the Children’s Day marked on the 27th of May 2023. She reminded them that they are primarily the voice and hope of the future and also informed them of the Child Rights Act 2007, which protects that voice.
The Branch’s Publicity Secretary further enlightened the students on the rights of a child to free, compulsory, and universal primary education using Section 15 of the Child Rights Act.
Realizing the role FIDA plays in the lives of women and children, the School’s principal, Mrs. Zainab Hassan, appreciated FIDA for the enlightenment and prayed for continuous exercise in the school for the benefit of the children.
In response, the Chairperson while promising a cordial and working relationship, assured the school’s principal of subsequent exercises in the school.
Closing the visit, the Chairperson presented copies of the VAPP Act, FIDA Contact/Flyers, and gift items to the school.
by FIDAChild Protection and Safeguarding Training
FIDA Uyo Branch in her efforts to ensure that parents, teachers, and other handlers of children are empowered to protect children and report violations, organized training on Child Protection and Safeguarding. The training was held on 25th May 2023 at Justice Eno Otu Bar Centre, Uyo.
Forty-five participants drawn from heads of public and private schools, parents, handlers of children in church, and NGOs benefited from the training.
Highlights of topics discussed were: Child Rights, Principles of Safeguarding; Types of abuse; detecting non-physical abuse, and taking action where there is abuse or likelihood of abuse.
On behalf of the participants, the principal of Ndikpo Grammar School. Mrs. Julie Effiong thanked FIDA for the training and urged FIDA to train more handlers of children.
by FIDAFIDA holds debate for stakeholders towards developing a policy statement on the unconstitutionality of the provision of section 396 (7) of the ACJA in Kano State
In attendance were representative(s) of the Acting Chief Judge of Kano State, NBA Chairman, Ministry of Justice, PCACC, ICPC, Police, Corrections, Faculty of Law BUK, legal aid council, PWAN, and other partners.
Section 396(7) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, was coined to abolish delay of trials occasioned by the elevation of a sitting judge to a higher court, however, this section was decided unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in Udeogu v FRN & Ors.
Premised on this, FIDA Nigeria on Wednesday the 24th of May organized a workshop in Kano State with the support of MacArthur Foundation, for stakeholders to debate on the effect of the unconstitutionality of section 396(7) as decided by the Supreme Court, with an objective to provide a platform for Criminal Justice Actors to discuss the implications the unconstitutionality of this section has on litigants in respect of speedy trials especially relating to corruption cases across various courts.
Inputs from Criminal Justice Actors will be collated, incorporated from discussions ranging from challenges in conclusions of speedy trials, recommendations and practical solutions in enhancing speedy trials taking into cognizance uniqueness of focal states peculiarities and independence in adopting the ACJA.
In attendance were representative(s) of the Acting Chief Judge of Kano State, NBA Chairman, Ministry of Justice, PCACC, ICPC, Police, Corrections, Faculty of Law BUK, legal aid council, PWAN and other partners.
The findings of the workshop will form part of the policy document being developed which will serve as an advocacy tool to relevant stakeholders at the National Level by outlining ways forward in ensuring the intention of the provision to aid the speedy dispensation of justice is preserved
by FIDAFIDA Rivers Commemorates International Day of the Boy
In commemoration of the International Day of the Boy Child, FIDA Nigeria Rivers State Branch visited Enitonna Boys School, an all Boy’s School on the 16th of May 2022
In line with the theme of this year’s celebration, which bothers the Boy and his Mental Health, the boys were educated on the importance of mental health as well as the environmental factors that affect same. They were admonished to break all gender stereotypes, discover themselves and be confident in who they are. They were further advised to eschew all bad influences in society and focus on their education which is their primary responsibility.
Other topics discussed with the boys were; Sexual Offences and their consequences and the Rights of the Boy Child as provided under the laws of Rivers State.
It was an educative, enlightening, and insightful session for the boys and their teachers. Sophia I. J. Afolayan Publicity Secretary/Editor FIDA Nigeria Rivers State Branch.
by FIDAInauguration of the FCT GBV Monitoring & Evaluation Committee
The Chairperson Abuja branch, Chibuzo Nwosu, and Program Officer, Chioma Okoye – Chukwuma honored an invitation by the Foundation for Resilient Empowerment & Development (FRED) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs held at the Community Hall, Social Development Secretariat Area 10, Garki, Abuja. On Thursday, 30th of March, 2023.
The meeting was initiated by FRED to inaugurate the FCT GBV M & E State technical working group and subcommittees, present and adopt the finalized Terms of Reference (TOR) and finally upscale the collation and reporting of the rate of incidents of Gender Based Violence (GBV) in the FCT using the national GBV reporting tools to enhance GBV data coordination and Management.
Goodwill messages were taken from Representatives of Nigerian Security & Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Legal secretariat, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Federal Ministry of Women Affairs (FMWA), Health Secretariat, Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative (AWDI) Foundation For Resilient Empowerment (FRED) and our own very Chairperson, FIDA (Nigeria) Abuja Branch.
Delivering her goodwill message, the Chairperson applauded the Mandate Secretary for taking the initiative to establish the FCT Gender Based Violence Monitoring and Evaluation State Technical Working Group (GBV-STWG) with the aim of collective responsibility in the fight against Elimination of Violence against women and children in the FCT. She pledged her support towards the effective and efficient collaboration of FIDA as a member of the State Technical Working Group in implementing their mandate and activities. Presenting the finalized FCT GBV Terms of Reference for sub-committees, the Monitoring and Evaluation officer of FRED, Ahmeena Danjuma urged stakeholders for a collective participation in STWG activities so as to bridge the gaps in coordinating GBV reporting in the FCT. She concluded by encouraging participants who were yet to identify with a subcommittee to enlist and participate in committee activities as provided for in the Terms of Reference.
In closing, the Mandate Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat applauded stakeholders for attending the inauguration while stating that the inauguration of the STWG is a laudable milestone in the fight to end violence against women and children. She further urged stakeholders to work together to create a society free from all forms of violence against women and children. She warmly thanked participants and formally inaugurated the FCT State Technical Working Group.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Held a 3-day Training on Gender Responsive Budgeting
Women remain under-represented in public life, which means that government policy, including economic policy may not take their needs and priorities into account. Policies which appear neutral on the surface may have unintended consequences, including increasing gender inequality.
On this premise, FIDA Nigeria on the 18th to 20th of April 2023, held a 3 day Training Session on Gender Responsive Budgeting as an important Advocacy Tool for Tracking Allocation, Releases, and Monitoring Utilization on Budgets towards addressing VAWG/SGBV/HP in Ebonyi State.
The capacity of the participants were measured through Pre and Post Evaluations and further through group work. They all made their commitments to lead coordinated advocacies to relevant MDAs in an effort to make sure that gender line items appear in every budget and also make sure that allocated resources for gender programs are utilized to improve on the expected outcomes.
