Edo State Radiates Elegance as FIDA Nigeria Launches 2023 Annual General Conference with Grand Welcome Cocktail
FIDA Nigeria 2023 Annual General Conference kicked off with a befitting welcome cocktail on Wednesday, 22nd November 2023 in the ancient city of Benin, Edo State.
Edo State Branch of FIDA Nigeria rolled out the red carpet for an epic welcome cocktail which was graced by the Country Vice President/National President FIDA Nigeria, Amina Suzanah Agbaje, and members of the National Executive Committee. In attendance also were other notable personalities including the past Regional Vice President (North & West Africa) Chief Mrs. Victoria Olufunmilayo Awomolo SAN, Past National officers, the Chairman of NBA Benin Branch, and a host of other distinguished persons and delegates to the Conference who added glitz and glam to the welcome cocktail. It was indeed an evening of relaxation, entertainment, warm camaraderie, and connecting with fellow delegates while enjoying the music from the performance of the live band. It was a tranquil and beautiful event which set the tone for the annual general conference.
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FIDA Nigeria’s 2023 Annual General Conference Kicks Off with Resounding Call for Legal Empowerment
The Opening Ceremony of FIDA Nigeria 2023 Annual General Conference with the theme “Strengthening legal Safeguards for Vulnerable Populations in Nigeria” held at the prestigious Uyi Grand Event Center in Benin, Edo State on Thursday, November 23, 2023.
The tone for a transformative conference was set by the Country Vice President/National President, Amina Suzanah Agbaje who in her opening remarks reiterated that the discussions and plenary of the conference resonated around strategies to fortify legal safeguards for the vulnerable populations in Nigeria.
Distinguished personalities in attendance at the opening ceremony included Her Excellency Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, First Lady of Edo State who was ably represented by the Deputy Speaker RT. Hon Marie Omozele Edeko; Hon. Chief Judge of Edo State Judiciary, Hon. Justice D.I Okungbowa represented by Hon. Justice N. Imokhuede; Hon. Justices of the Customary Court of Appeal; Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice Edo State, Mr. Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi; Members of the Edo State House of Assembly; Permanent Secretary Edo State Ministry of Art, Tourism and Diaspora Affairs, Iryn Omorogiu Esq; Country Vice President FIDA Nigeria, Amina Suzanah Agbaje and members of the National Executive Committee; Chairman NBA Benin Branch; Representatives of the Royal Palace; Civil Society Organizations and Partners which included Federation of Muslim Women of Nigeria (FOMWAN); Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations (CONGOS); Society for Awareness & Family Initiative (SAFI) and Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD). Commander of Narcotics NDLEA Edo Command, Mr. Buba Wakawa represented by Asst. Commander of Narcotics NDLEA, ACN Ondotimi Austine Bebetu; was amongst the distinguished personalities at the event.
The Chair of the Occasion, Chief Mrs. Victoria Olufunmilayo Awomolo SAN, a past Regional Vice President, (RVP North & West Africa) brought the needed charisma and added some panache to the event.
The opening ceremony thereafter seamlessly transitioned into a Media Parley with members of the Press wherein the Country Vice President Amina Suzanah Agbaje made a strong call to action to members of the Fourth Realm of the Estate (the Media) to support the pro-bono legal work that FIDA does by amplifying their collective voices and showcasing deep-seated commitment as partners in progress to the mandate of FIDA!
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FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch Empowers Girl Child on International Day with Digital Literacy Pep Talk
On October 11, 2023, FIDA Nigeria’s Epe branch marked the International Day of the Girl Child with an inspiring pep talk held at Attwool Sunflower School in Ologolo, Lagos.
This year’s theme, “THE DIGITAL GENERATION, OUR GENERATION,” took center stage as participants delved into the crucial topic of “Navigating the Digital Space for a Greater Future for the Girl Child.”
Mrs. Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu, the PRO, initiated the pep talk by highlighting the significance of technology and digital literacy in today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape. Stressing the importance of equipping the girl child for growth in the digital space, she emphasized that technical proficiency is essential for proving one’s worth and assuming leadership roles in this digital generation.
The PRO articulated FIDA’s commitment to opening up opportunities, creating new avenues, and building partnerships that empower the girl child. This includes sensitization efforts and collaborations aimed at providing greater access to education, employment, and entrepreneurship.
Central to the strategy is the establishment and encouragement of digital platforms for empowerment, training, and mentorship. These platforms equip the girl child with essential tools to successfully navigate the digital space, positioning herself for a brighter future.
The session included a lively question and answer segment, and thoughtful gifts were presented to the students. The school management expressed gratitude to FIDA Epe for dedicating time to educate and encourage their pupils, underscoring the positive impact of such initiatives on the community.
FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch remains steadfast in its mission to empower and uplift the girl child, fostering a generation capable of thriving in the digital era.
FIDA Nigeria Unveils Roadmap to Bayelsa State 2023 Off-Cycle Gubernatorial Elections
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, through its intervention titled “Enhancing Women and Women with Disabilities Participation & Representation in the Political Process & Governance,” supported by the Canada Funds for Local Initiative (CFLI), will commence a series of activities as a buildup to the Bayelsa State Gubernatorial Elections scheduled for November 11th, 2023. These activities are geared towards ensuring effective observation of the political process while synergizing with stakeholders in creating a gender-responsive and protective environment that promotes inclusivity and participation of women and other vulnerable groups in the political process.
Below are the key activities heralding the Gubernatorial Elections:
• Monday, 6th November 2023: A virtual demonstration of FIDA Nigeria’s observation tool to be deployed at the November 11th, 2023 Governorship Elections to relevant stakeholders at 3 pm Nigeria time.
• Tuesday, 7th November 2023: Stakeholders Engagement with civil society groups in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
• Wednesday, 8th November 2023: Capacity-building workshop for Women Election Observers in observing, documenting, and reporting women’s political participation in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
• Thursday, 9th November 2023: Dissemination of FIDA Nigeria’s Pre-Election Statement on the preparedness of the Election Management Body (INEC) and Security agencies in enabling women’s political participation.
• Friday, 10th November 2023: Refresher training for Election Data analysts and incident reporters.
• Saturday, 11th November 2023: Opening of the FIDA Nigeria Election Data Analytical Centre at 7.30 am in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory.
• Saturday, 11th November 2023: Dissemination of interim findings/statement from the elections by 12 noon.
• Saturday, 11th November 2023: Dissemination of preliminary findings/statement from the elections by 5 PM.
• Monday, 13th November 2023: Dissemination of post-election statement by noon.
Citizens are enjoined to participate in our activities, which will be amplified via our social media handles, as we envisage a safe environment for women’s participation in the electoral process.
May God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Amina Agbaje (Mrs)
Country Vice President/National President
FIDA Lagos Champions Rights and Well-being on International Day of the Girl Child
In a dedicated observance of the International Day of the Girl Child, the dynamic team from FIDA Lagos, spearheaded by Chairperson Mrs. Chinwe Efobi and guided by Committee Head Mrs. Nnenna Nwaokobia, made a meaningful impact at Topgrade Secondary School in Surulere, Lagos.
Mrs. Roma Wayo, a passionate FIDA Lagos member, took the stage to enlighten and sensitize the students about the “Rights of the Girl Child.” Joining forces were Dr. Mrs. Feyisikemi Dauda, representing the Medical Women Association of Nigeria, addressing the critical topic of “Dental Care and the Benefits of a Healthy Lifestyle for the Girl Child.” Dr. Mrs. Uyime Ivy-King added her expertise to the discourse, focusing on “Self-Confidence and Development” to inspire and guide the young minds.
The event culminated in a mini-legal clinic intervention session, providing invaluable insights and support to address legal concerns affecting the well-being of the girl child. FIDA Lagos once again demonstrated its commitment to shaping a brighter future for young girls by imparting knowledge, fostering confidence, and addressing crucial aspects of their health and rights.
FIDA Nigeria Leads Workshop Against SGBV and CEFM in Southern Nigeria
FIDA Nigeria organized a dynamic Capacity Building Workshop that united 25 impassioned Community Representatives from Delta, Bayelsa, and Edo States in Southern Nigeria.
This workshop wasn’t just a gathering—it was a catalyst for rapid, effective action against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and the scourge of Child, Early, and Forced Marriage (CEFM). The focus? Crafting seamless, tried-and-true referral pathways that deliver unwavering support to survivors.
It was a day of empowerment, where Community Paralegals were armed with the tools, skills, and knowledge to confidently tackle issues of SGBV and CEFM, harnessing established referral networks. And it didn’t stop there. This gathering sought to bolster the capabilities of these paralegals, fortifying their ability to construct transparent pathways, ensuring swift and all-encompassing aid for victims and survivors of SGBV and CEFM, who have faced unspeakable violations of their rights.
The driving force behind this monumental event? A collaboration between the indomitable Palladium and FIDA Nigeria, fueled by the unwavering support of the USAID-funded SCALE project.
Empowering Community Leaders to Combat Violence Against Women in Elections: FIDA Nigeria’s Workshop in Bayelsa State
In a significant stride towards fostering gender equality and amplifying women’s voices in the electoral process, FIDA Nigeria, in collaboration with the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), organized a One-Day Capacity Building Workshop for Community Leaders. The event, held in Bayelsa State, was specifically designed to address the pressing issue of Violence against Women in Elections.
The primary aim of this workshop was to equip community leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to identify and combat factors contributing to violence against women during electoral processes. By nurturing a comprehensive understanding of these critical issues, participants were empowered to proactively safeguard the rights and safety of women in the upcoming November 11, 2023 off-cycle Governorship Election.
Central to the workshop’s agenda was the establishment of robust referral channels between communities and prominent security agencies. This strategic move is poised to revolutionize the response mechanism for incidents of violence against women, ensuring swift action and a safer environment for female participants in the political arena.
Moreover, the initiative aspires to fortify a resilient community protection framework, with a special emphasis on indigenous women and other vulnerable populations in Bayelsa State. By prioritizing inclusivity and equal representation, this endeavor seeks to create an environment where every voice is heard and valued.
FIDA Nigeria extends heartfelt gratitude to the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives for their generous support, which has played a pivotal role in transforming this vision into a tangible reality. The CFLI’s commitment to championing the cause of women’s rights on an international scale exemplifies the profound impact that collaborative efforts can have in dismantling barriers and fostering a more inclusive society.
As the echoes of this workshop reverberate through Bayelsa State, it is anticipated that the knowledge and empowerment gained by community leaders will be instrumental in paving the way for a more equitable and just electoral process. This initiative serves as a testament to the power of collective action in effecting positive change and advancing the cause of gender equality.
FIDA Nigeria Held a One-day Workshop on Plea Bargain as a Tool for Speedy Dispensation of Corruption Cases
”Plea Bargain as a Tool for Speedy Dispensation of Corruption Cases”
This was the crux of the One-Day National Capacity Building organized by FIDA Nigeria with support from the MacArthur Foundation for Actors in the Criminal Justice system, Judicial Officers, Economic and Financial Crimes Officials, Law Enforcement and Security Agencies, private practitioners amongst other critical stakeholders.
The training was targeted at increasing capacity of participants and impacting thorough knowledge on the concept, principle, workings and challenges of plea bargain as a tool for speedy dispensation of corruption cases; Improve synergy and coordination amongst Criminal Justice actors; Provide a platform for shared learnings particularly for Judicial Officers and prosecutors for Economic and Financial Crimes, and other Law Enforcement and Security Agencies to examine the critical issues and challenges faced in the utilisation of Plea bargain.
The provisions of the Proceeds of Crimes ( Recovery and Management Act (POCA) 2022, were also X-rayed and thoroughly discussed by participants.
The workshop and subsequent interactive discourse threw up various recommendations, including the need to have a streamlined and harmonious Guideline on Plea bargain at National level, and functional committees at state levels to oversee the process of plea bargain as is already done in some states. These amongst several other well thought-out recommendations are geared towards enriching the jurisprudence of Plea Bargain as a veritable tool for speedy dispensation of corruption cases.
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FIDA Nigeria organized her 2nd SGBV/CEFM Bi-annual Coordination meeting in 2023 for selected stakeholders yesterday in Abuja
The Bi-annual Coordination meeting being the 4th in the series provided a platform for shared learning, mutual coordination, interactions, and networking amongst civil society actors working within the space. The meeting also addressed issues on sustainability of coordinated interventions by civil society organisation while expanding on other areas of best practices for effective preventive and response strategies on Sexual & Gender Based Violence (SGBV) and Child Early Forced Marriage (CEFM)
Present at the meeting were the Country Vice President and National President FIDA Nigeria, Amina Suzana Agbaje; Eric Umoru Eric Umoru – Social Protection & Inclusion Advisor Palladium; National Asst. Publicity Secretary Shaltha Nachamada; MDAs ,CSOs & Stakeholders from various parts of the country.
FIDA Nigeria Side Event at the 63rd NBA Annual General Conference
The parallel event of FIDA Nigeria which took place during the pendency of the 63rd Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference held on the 30th of August 2023 at Moshood Abiola National Stadium Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, with the Theme ”Getting It Right: Women As Agents Of Change In Nation Building-Making A Case For The Nigerian Woman”
In her opening remarks, the Country Vice President/National President FIDA Nigeria Amina Suzanah Agbaje noted that “In the grand tapestry of Nigerian history, women have always been present, silently shaping the destiny of our nation. They have stood as pillars of strength, demonstrating resilience in the face of challenges, and nurturing the seeds of progress within our communities. However, it is time we give Women the recognition we truly deserve, as agents of change in nation-building.”
The plenary session had a line up of erudite guest speakers including Ene Obi, immediate Past Country Director, Action Aid Nigeria; Johnson J. Usman SAN, Principal Partner, J.J Usman SAN and co.; and Oluwatoyosi Giwa, Project Manager, Access to Justice for Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities for the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) programme. It was moderated by Chisom Ihekwaba, co-founder of Sisters’ Bond Initiative.
In attendance were notable personalities which included member Board of Trustees FIDA Nigeria Prof Jummai Audi; Past Regional Vice Presidents Chief (Mrs.) Victoria Olufunmilayo Awomolo SAN and Hajiya Laraba Shuaibu; Past Country Vice President FIDA Nigeria Rhoda Prevail Tyoden; National Secretary Eliana Martins; National Asst. Publicity Secretary Shaltha Nachamada; Members of the National Executive Council of FIDA Nigeria; Chairman, Nigerian Law Reform Commission; FIDA Members and a host of other dignitaries and delegates.
It was a well-attended event that sparked off enlightening, incisive and highly interactive discussions on the various ways women’s numerous contributions and the invaluable role they play as agents of change, shape and transform the trajectory of nation-building.