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.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch Commemorates World Day of Social Justice 2025
In solidarity with the global community, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, commemorates the World Day of Social Justice, observed annually on the 20th of February.
This year’s theme is Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps for Social Justice.
As recognized by the World Summit, social development aims at fostering social justice, solidarity, harmony, and equality within and among countries. Equality and equity are the fundamental values that uphold all societies. This aligns with the mission of FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, which strives to promote, protect, and preserve the rights, interests, and well-being of women and children. We use the legal framework to ensure that women and children live free from all forms of discrimination, violence, and abuse in society.
FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, therefore calls for more inclusive policies and actions that aim to reduce inequalities, restore human dignity, and promote sustainable development—especially for marginalized Nigerian women and children. It is time to bridge the gaps that divide us.
FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch wishes everyone a meaningful and impactful World Day of Social Justice.
Signed:
Tamunoibuemi Life-George
Chairperson, FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Press Statement on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation
Theme: Stepping up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM
Nigeria is among the countries with the highest prevalence of FGM! According to the United Nations, Nigeria ranks third globally for FGM cases, with nearly 19.9 million survivors. The 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) reveals that 20% of women aged 15-49 have undergone FGM, with particularly high rates in the South East (35%), South West (30%), and South-South (24%) regions
Therefore as we commemorate the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), FIDA Nigeria reaffirms its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and well-being of every girl and woman. FGM is not only a harmful traditional practice but also a gross violation of human rights that causes profound physical, psychological, and social harm. This cruel practice must be eradicated in all its forms.
Key Nigerian laws which explicitly prohibit FGM, include:
✅ The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015 (VAPP Act) – Section 6 criminalizes FGM and imposes strict penalties for offenders.
✅ The Child Rights Act, 2003 – Sections 11 and 21 prohibit harmful traditional practices that threaten children’s health and rights.
✅ State Laws – Some states, such as Lagos, Ekiti, Ebonyi, and Osun, have enacted specific laws banning FGM, though enforcement remains a significant challenge.
We must ensure the implementation of these laws for the benefit of girls and women. FGM has no health benefits and only serves to rob girls and women of their autonomy, safety, and dignity.
Alarmingly however, the practice of medicalized FGM is on the rise, where healthcare providers perform FGM under the false guise of safety. This is a clear violation of medical ethics as there is no form of FGM that is safe, acceptable, or justified.
The theme for this year, emphasizes the critical need for collaboration and action at all levels to eradicate this practice.
FIDA Nigeria therefore calls upon all stakeholders to take decisive steps in the fight against FGM:
- Law Enforcement Agencies must rigorously enforce anti-FGM laws, prosecute offenders, and provide justice for survivors.
- Traditional and Religious Leaders should publicly denounce FGM and dismantle the harmful myths that perpetuate it.
- Healthcare Professionals must refuse to participate in FGM and report any cases where it is being practiced.
- Civil Society Organizations must continue to raise awareness, engage communities, and create safe spaces for survivors.
- The Government must prioritize the elimination of FGM by allocating resources, strengthening enforcement, and implementing sustainable intervention programs.
We cannot afford to relent in the fight against this practice. For every girl at risk, for every survivor in pain, and for the millions still vulnerable to this form of gender-based violence—
FIDA Nigeria remains resolute in its advocacy, intervention, and legal action to ensure that no more girls suffer from this injustice.
The time to act is NOW. Not another girl. Not another cut. Not another stolen future.
Signed:
FIDA Nigeria
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria
EndFGM #ZeroTolerance #ProtectOurGirls
by FIDAFIDA Abuja Advocates Media Partnership to Strengthen Protection of Women and Children’s Rights
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Abuja Branch, has called for strengthened collaboration with the media to enhance the protection of women and children’s rights. The Chairperson of FIDA Abuja, Barr. Chioma Onyenucheya-Ukoh, made this call during a media parley held in Abuja on Saturday, where she engaged journalists from various media houses alongside members of her executive team.
Addressing the gathering, Onyenucheya-Ukoh lamented the rising cases of defilement of minors and other forms of gender-based violence. She reaffirmed FIDA’s unwavering commitment to providing pro bono (free) legal services to women and children facing injustice.
Highlighting the crucial role of the media in raising awareness and bridging the gap between FIDA and survivors of gender-based violence, she emphasized the need for continued partnership. According to her, “A major challenge in our society is the lack of awareness about legal rights, particularly those protecting women and children. Many infractions occur due to ignorance, which unfortunately is not an excuse under the law. This is why we need the media—to educate the public and amplify the legal provisions that safeguard the rights of vulnerable groups.”
The FIDA Abuja Chairperson further noted that while FIDA has been actively working to defend and empower women and children for over three decades, increased media visibility is essential to ensuring that those in need of legal aid know where to turn for help. She stressed that the media must be intentional in shaping narratives that influence policymakers, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to take meaningful action in protecting women’s and children’s rights.
She also urged journalists to be sensitive and accurate in reporting gender-related stories to avoid reinforcing harmful stereotypes or misrepresenting legal realities. FIDA Abuja, she assured, is always available to provide legal guidance to ensure responsible and informed reporting.
Reaffirming her personal commitment to open communication, Onyenucheya-Ukoh stated: “As Chairperson, I am always available to provide insights on issues within FIDA’s mandate, regardless of the platform. FIDA has a wealth of resources and legal experts who are willing to contribute whenever necessary.