by FIDAAdvocacy Townhall in Lokoja Advances Demand for Special Seats for Women
In Lokoja, voices were raised—not in protest, but with purpose.
FIDA Nigeria, in partnership with FOMWAN, convened a one-day advocacy townhall that brought together women’s groups, civil society organizations, political parties, artisans, market women, and persons with disabilities. These participants were not passive observers—they were active contributors to a growing national dialogue on inclusive governance.
The focus of the engagement was the development of a community-informed memorandum calling for the allocation of special seats for women in Nigeria’s parliament. Grounded in lived experiences and shared realities, the discussions reflected a collective understanding: inclusion must be deliberate, and it must be reflected in the constitution.
Supported by UN Women and funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) of the UK Government, the townhall reinforced the importance of grassroots engagement in shaping national policy priorities.
FIDA Nigeria remains committed to advancing legal and policy frameworks that promote equitable representation and meaningful participation in governance.
#SpecialSeatsReserved4WomenBill
#HerSeatInParliament
#ReservedSeatsNow
by FIDAMale Champions in Lokoja Back Special Seats for Women
Change gains momentum when key actors take deliberate steps. In Lokoja, 30 male champions convened for a one-day HeForShe advocacy meeting to support women’s political inclusion in Nigeria.
Their purpose was clear—amplify the demand for gender-balanced representation without overshadowing the voices of women. During the session, participants contributed to and finalized a memorandum endorsing the allocation of special seats for women in Nigeria’s parliament. This move signals a shift in perspective: gender inclusion is not exclusive to women—it is a collective responsibility.
The advocacy meeting was facilitated by FIDA Nigeria, with support from UN Women and funding from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) of the UK Government.
FIDA Nigeria continues to engage with stakeholders who are committed to structural reforms that promote equitable representation at all levels.
#SpecialSeatsReserved4WomenBill
#HerSeatInParliament
#SideBySideCampaign
by FIDAFIDA NIGERIA ENGAGES CITIZENS TO BUILD CONSENSUS AND AGGREGRATE DEMANDS ON PASSAGE OF THE RESERVED SEATS FOR WOMEN’S BILL TOWARDS STRENGTHENING NIGERIAN WOMEN REPRESENTATION IN PARLIAMENT
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, with support from the UNWOMEN Nigeria and funding from the Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) has launched a significant new initiative aimed at engaging Nigerian Citizens at the State and Community levels towards building consensus and aggregating demands on the passage of the Reserved Seats for Women Bill which is presently being considered by Joint Constitutional Reform Committees of the National Assembly.
This initiative, launched under the auspices of the Advancing Women’s Inclusion and Representation in Leadership and Political Processes in Nigeria project, will be implemented across nine States of the Federation namely: Anambra, Enugu (South East), Edo (South South), Oyo (South West), Kogi (North Central), Adamawa (North East), Sokoto, Kano & Jigawa(North West)
Mrs. Eliana Martins, Country Vice President of FIDA Nigeria in a Statement disseminated to the press, informs Nigerians that this initiative aims to drive conversations on inclusivity of gender quota specifically campaigns and advocacy on Reservation of Special Seats for Women at the Nigerian Parliament (Senate, House of Representatives and State Houses of Assembly); in the constitutional amendment process, working with multi-stakeholders at both the State and Local communities.
She stated that through proper and regular engagements, these stakeholders will unanimously aggregate demands, through a co-creation process, collate inputs which will be reduced into a draft memorandum which will be presented at the public hearings before the relevant National Assembly committees.
Laying credence to the aforementioned statement, the Senior Manager, Programs & Partnerships FIDA Nigeria emphasized that advocacy is tilted towards enabling a gender responsive legal environment that will witness additional Special Seats for 37 Women in the Nigerian Senate and Federal House of Representatives respectively, totaling 74 and 108 additional seats at the respective State Houses of Assembly
Mr. Fikih Obaro further highlighted the primary goals of the project to include:
- Strengthening advocacy efforts for the inclusion of exclusive additional special seats for women through strategic partnerships with key state and non-state actors.
- Increasing public awareness and support in advancing women political participation and representation through the constitution amendment process.
- Aggregating demands and advocacy asks through a draft memorandum from citizens towards improving women representation in Governance and political process.
- Securing commitments from National and State Houses of Assembly by building a passage for 74 additional exclusive Special Seats for Women at the National Assembly and 108 Seats at the State Houses of Assembly through Constitutional Amendment/Review process.
Conclusively the Country Vice President/National President, Mrs. Eliana Martins encouraged the public to support all efforts to advance the representation and participation of women in Nigerian politics and specifically the Nigerian ….
She also invited everyone to follow FIDA Nigeria’s activities related to this project on social media:
- Facebook: @fidanig
- X (Twitter): @fidanigeria
- Instagram: fida.nigeria
- Website: www.fida.org.ng
God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
God bless FIDA Nigeria
Eliana Martins (Mrs.)
Country Vice President /National President
by FIDAStrengthening Families, Empowering Communities: FIDA Nigeria–Abuja Branch Brings Legal Awareness to Gwarimpa Village
Every strong society is built on the foundation of informed, protected, and empowered families. Recognizing this, FIDA Nigeria Abuja Branch marked the International Day of Families with a deeply impactful community outreach to Gwarimpa Village bringing legal education closer to the people and reaffirming its commitment to promoting family rights at the grassroots level.
Families in Gwarimpa gathered with hope and curiosity as FIDA Chairperson, Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko, led an engaging session that spotlighted the everyday legal challenges many households face but rarely talk about gender-based violence, child neglect, early and forced marriage, and harmful inheritance practices.
“Your family should be a place of protection, not fear,” she told the crowd, reminding them that while cultural traditions matter, no tradition should override the rights and safety of any individual, especially women and children.
Warmly received by the Dakachin Gwarimpa, Alhaji Bayero Yakubu, the outreach created a space where law met culture, and dialogue gave way to understanding. The community’s openness to learning and collaboration was clear. Many, including the village women’s leader, spoke of the transformative power of knowledge and how the session helped shed light on issues long considered taboo or misunderstood.
“We have learned today that we are not powerless. The law is for us too,” said one participant, visibly moved. “I will take this message to the men in our homes, to the mothers, and to the children growing up in silence.”
Chairperson Onyenucheya-Uko emphasized the importance of utilizing existing laws such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act and the Child Rights Act to safeguard families and ensure justice. She called for communities to become active stakeholders in building safer, more inclusive homes and societies.
In response, Alhaji Bayero Yakubu expressed heartfelt gratitude to FIDA for choosing Gwarimpa for the outreach. He pledged the community’s willingness to support future engagements and ensure that the lessons shared would not end with the day’s event.
The outreach wasn’t just a one-off event; it was a call to action a reminder that legal empowerment is a powerful tool for social change. FIDA Nigeria–Abuja Branch continues to walk alongside families, especially in underrepresented communities, offering not only legal guidance but also hope for a more just and equitable future.
As the sun set on Gwarimpa that day, the air was filled not only with gratitude but with the quiet strength of a community awakened to its rights and ready to rise.
by FIDAFIDA Rivers Conducts Sensitization Tour at Aleto-Eleme Community Market
As part of its commitment to legal awareness and advocacy, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, led by Chairperson Mrs. Tamunoibuemi Life-George, carried out a sensitization tour at the Aleto-Eleme community market on March 18, 2025.
During the visit, both men and women actively engaged with the FIDA Rivers team, seeking to understand existing laws, particularly those related to violence against persons and inheritance rights. The exercise was well-received and marked a significant step toward promoting legal awareness in the community.
Following the sensitization, the delegation proceeded to the Nigerian Police Eleme Area Command to bring a case of domestic violence to the attention of the Area Commander. The case involved a woman who was physically assaulted by her husband, resulting in severe injuries to her head and face. The perpetrator, now at large, also took their three children with him.
In response, the Area Commander immediately directed her officers to investigate the matter and ensure the suspect is arrested. She assured FIDA Rivers of a thorough investigation and justice for the victim.
Signed:
Tamunoibuemi Life-George
Chairperson, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
Rachel Princewill, AIMC
Publicity Secretary/Editor, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch Pays Advocacy Visit to Eleme Kingdom
On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, the Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, Mrs. Tamunoemi Life-George, led a delegation on an advocacy visit to the King of Eleme at his palace in Aleto-Eleme, Rivers State.
The delegation was warmly received by His Royal Majesty, King (Dr.) Emere Philip Osaro Obelle JP (One-Eh Eleme and King of Eleme), alongside the Chiefs representing the ten clans that make up the Eleme Kingdom.
A major highlight of the visit was the advocacy on the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law of Rivers State and the Dehumanizing and Harmful Traditional Practices Abolition and Amendment Act. Discussions centered on creating awareness and ensuring the protection of women’s rights within the Eleme community.
An interactive session followed, where the delegation addressed questions from the King, Chiefs, and community members, providing insights into the impact and enforcement of these critical laws.
In his response, King Emere Philip Osaro Obelle JP expressed gratitude to his Chiefs for their swift response to the meeting and commended the Queen Mother for mobilizing women, who turned out in large numbers. He further extended heartfelt appreciation to FIDA Rivers State for its dedication to promoting justice and women’s rights.
He reaffirmed that the Eleme community holds women in high esteem and assured that his kingdom will continue to uphold peace, fairness, and respect for women’s rights.
To further promote legal awareness, copies of the VAPP Law (in Special English), “FIDA Rivers on the Move,” and other relevant legal documents were presented to the King and his Chiefs.
Signed:
Tamunoibuemi Life-George
Chairperson, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
Rachel Princewill, AIMC
Publicity Secretary/Editor, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
by FIDAFIDA Rivers Pays Courtesy Visit to NBA Port Harcourt Branch Chairman, Mrs. Cordelia Eke
As part of the International Women’s Day celebrations, the Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Rivers, Tamunoibuemi Life-George, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Port Harcourt Branch, Mrs. Cordelia U. Eke.
During the visit, the FIDA Chairperson commended Mrs. Eke on her exemplary leadership, describing her achievements as an inspiration to female lawyers. She highlighted Mrs. Eke’s role as the first female Chairman of the NBA PH Branch, acknowledging her as a beacon of hope for women in the legal profession.
She further expressed appreciation for the peaceful coexistence between FIDA Rivers and the NBA PH Branch at the Branch House, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration.
NBA PH Chairman Applauds FIDA’s Contributions
In response, Mrs. Cordelia Eke thanked the delegation for the visit and noted that, as a proud member of FIDA herself, she deeply appreciated the kind gesture. She acknowledged FIDA’s significant contributions to society and encouraged the association to implement self-empowerment programs to benefit its members.
Additionally, she acknowledged the strong relationship between NBA PH and FIDA Rivers but advised on the need for better scheduling of mediation sessions to prevent disruptions to library activities.
A Gesture of Appreciation
Reaffirming her support for FIDA’s noble cause, Mrs. Eke presented the delegation with a copy of her book, “Criminal Justice in Nigeria,” as well as “Contemporary Issues in Women and Children’s Rights,” a book published in honor of Hon. Justice Adama I. Iyayi-Lamikanra, former Chief Judge of Rivers State.
Signed:
Tamunoibuemi Life-George
Chairperson, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
Rachel Princewill, AIMC
Publicity Secretary/Editor, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
by FIDAFIDA Ondo Celebrates Female Judges on International Day of Women Judges 2025
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Ondo State branch, marked the International Day of Women Judges 2025 with a remarkable event celebrating the contributions of female judges in the judiciary. The event, themed Gavel & Gather with Female Judges in Ondo State, took place on March 10, 2025, bringing together distinguished judges, legal practitioners, students, and the general public.
Recognizing the Dedication of Female Judges
Bolanle Olafunmiloye, Chairperson of FIDA Ondo, opened the event by highlighting its significance as the first of its kind in Ondo State. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging female judges for their dedication, integrity, and service in the judiciary.
Hon. Justice (Prof.) Alero Akeredolu delivered an inspiring keynote address on this year’s theme, Women in Justice, Women for Justice. The event also featured a thought-provoking panel discussion on Challenges Faced in Ensuring Justice for GBV Victims. Panelists included:
Hon. Justice Akintan-Osadebay
Hon. Justice Adesola Ikpatt
His Worship A. F. Akinboboye
Helen Falowo, Assistant Director at the Ministry of Justice
Honoring Excellence in the Judiciary
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to distinguished female judges in recognition of their outstanding commitment and service on the bench in Ondo State and Nigeria. The honored judges included:
Hon. Justice H. M. Ogunwumiju (JSC)
Hon. Justice E. A. Alade
Hon. Justice Akintan-Osadebay
Hon. Justice Adejumo
Hon. Justice Adesola Ikpatt
Hon. O. A. Adegoroye, Chairman of the Planning Committee, expressed gratitude to all attendees and commended FIDA Ondo for spearheading this historic recognition. He assured continued support from the judiciary in advancing gender equity in the legal profession.
A Gathering of Legal Luminaries
The event was well attended by members of the judiciary, including male judges from the Ondo State judiciary, senior lawyers, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Akure Bar Chairman and executives, former FIDA executives, civil society organizations such as the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and the Justice, Development, and Peace Commission (JDPC), and the general public.
FIDA Ondo remains committed to advocating for justice, gender equality, and the empowerment of women in the legal profession.
by FIDAPRESS STATEMENT BY FIDA NIGERIA ON THE COMMEMORATION OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2025
Theme: For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment
How much longer must the Nigerian woman and girl child wait for equity and justice; for inclusion and Equal Opportunities? Women and Girls are more than deserving of justice, equality, and empowerment.
On this International Women’s Day 2025, FIDA Nigeria raises a clarion call to great action; Women Arise, Accelerate Action!!!
We stand in unwavering solidarity with women and girls across the nation focused on the theme :- For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment is not just a slogan—it is an urgent demand to end systemic oppression, injustice, and discrimination.
Yet our tragic reality is – A Nation Failing Its Women!! Even though the Nigerian Constitution (under Section 42 (1)) guarantees freedom from discrimination, women are still denied equal opportunities in political representation, inheritance rights, and employment; while necessary qualifications and merit is being thrown out the window to allow for patriarchal sentiments, stereotyping, nepotism, tribalism and indigeneship.
Though the National Gender Policy (2006) prescribes 35% affirmative action for women in leadership, yet it is looked at as a toothless bulldog being that women occupy less than 6% of elective positions, a blatant disregard for gender inclusivity.
Accordingly, across Nigeria, millions of women and girls continue to face gender-based violence, economic deprivation, and systematic discrimination and exclusion. The National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), confirms that 31% of Nigerian women aged between 15-49 years have experienced physical violence, yet only 1 in 3 victims seek help, with many unable to access justice due to stigma, fear, and institutional barriers.
Nigeria remains one of the top 10 countries with the highest rates of child marriage, with the United Nations reporting that over 44% of girls are married before the age of 18, robbing them of their bright future and exposing them to unimaginable suffering and deprivation.
While we note that Legal Protections Exist, however Justice Remains Most Elusive to the Average woman. This is despite Nigeria’s commitment to international frameworks such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Maputo Protocol, implementation remains a mirage.
The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) 2015 has not been domesticated in all states, leaving many women unprotected. While the Child Rights Act 2003, meant to safeguard young girls from early and forced marriages, is yet to be fully implemented across the country, allowing archaic traditions and beliefs to continue violating children’s rights.
FIDA Nigeria says Enough is Enough! Women Arise! Let’s Accelerate Action, for ALL Women and Girls: For the Promotion, Protection, Preservation of Rights; For Equality & Empowerment!
We stand as the Legal Voice for Women and Girls and remain the beacon of hope for women facing all forms of injustice. Through our free legal aid services, we have provided legal representation to over 15,000 indigent women and girls in the past year alone. We have championed strategic litigation to challenge discriminatory laws and practices, ensuring that perpetrators of gender-based violence and sexual exploitation are held accountable.
We continue to advocate for the full domestication and enforcement of the VAPP Act, the Child Rights Act, and the National Gender Policy. Our grassroots sensitization programs have educated thousands of women on their legal rights, empowering them to speak up against oppression.
Enough is Enough: we Call for Action as we demand urgent, concrete actions to protect and promote the rights of women and girls in Nigeria:
Women Arise and let us work together, mentor and support each other; likewise we encourage HeForShe champions to join us in addressing some of these issues for the betterment of society
The Federal and State Governments must prioritize gender-responsive policies and ensure the full implementation of existing legal frameworks. While State Assemblies must urgently domesticate the VAPP Act and Child Rights Act to guarantee legal protections for all Nigerian women and girls.
Additionally, Law enforcement agencies must ensure swift and unbiased prosecution of gender-based violence cases, removing the barriers that hinder victims from seeking justice.
Even the private sector has a role to play as they must enforce equal pay policies, eliminate workplace harassment, and create inclusive environments where women can thrive.
The Nigerian society must collectively reject harmful traditional practices that sustain gender inequality and violence against women. Let’s change the narrative and portray strong women in better light because we know that Women’s involvement will lead to better policies on issues concerning society especially in the areas of poverty reduction, family welfare, health care and education.
The culture of endurance and silence, must abate, while parity and
and empowerment become non non-negotiable. We refuse to let another generation of girls grow up in fear, oppression, and deprivation. As an unwavering legal shield, FIDA stands for every Nigerian woman and girl; We will not rest until justice prevails across board!
For ALL Women and Girls, we demand RIGHTS. We demand EQUALITY. We demand EMPOWERMENT. And we will not stop until we achieve it.
Happy International Women’s Day!
AccelerateAction #FIDAForJustice #IWD2025 #EndGenderInequality
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.