by FIDAEmpowering the Next Generation: FIDA Epe Celebrates International Day of the Girl Child
FIDA Epe marked the International Day of the Girl Child with a special advocacy visit to Ethos Crest School, Ajah. The event, led by the Chairperson, Mrs. Olufunke Oduwole, was warmly received by the school’s proprietor, who expressed gratitude to FIDA for dedicating time to celebrate and empower the students.
In her address, Mrs. Oduwole introduced FIDA Epe’s delegation and shared insights about FIDA’s mission, vision, and the importance of commemorating this significant day. The Vice Chairperson, Sotonye Amachree, and Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu, engaged the students in an interactive session centered around this year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future.” The session sparked meaningful discussions, followed by a Q&A segment where the girls’ voices were heard.
As part of their commitment to education and empowerment, FIDA Epe presented notebooks and water bottles to all participants, along with two books for the school’s library, leaving a lasting impact on both the students and the school.
by FIDA2024 FIDA NIGERIA, LAGOS BRANCH LAW WEEK: Women Lawyers Reiterate Commitment to the Group’s Ideals & Mandate
The Four Points by Sheraton on Victoria Island, Lagos was the venue for the opening ceremonies of the 2024 Annual Law Week of the Lagos Branch of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA Nigeria), which ran from Tuesday, October 8, to Friday, October 11, 2024.
The 4-day event, which brought together female wigs from various branches, practice areas and years of post-Call to Bar experience, was convened to discuss the theme, ‘ADVANCING GENDER EQUALITY AND ECONOMIC GROWTH THROUGH POLICY REFORMS’.
The opening ceremony started with the National Anthem, and the FIDA song.
In her address of welcome, the Chairperson of FIDA Nigeria, Lagos Branch, Mrs. Chinwe Efobi, reminded the assembled attendees that this year’s Law Week coincided with the 80th anniversary of the global community of FIDA and the 60th anniversary of FIDA in Nigeria- the body having been founded back in 1944 in Mexico and 1964 in Nigeria. FIDA (which is the Spanish acronym for the International Federation of Women Lawyers) is a non-governmental and not-for-profit global organization that advocates for women’s rights and gender equality around the world. It was established in 1944 and has chapters in various countries, and branches in all the states in Nigeria, all of which, Mrs. Efobi said, are working to promote justice, equality, and human rights for women. She went on to list FIDA’s objectives to include the following:
– Promoting women’s rights and gender equality;
– Supporting women’s access to justice and legal protection;
– Encouraging women’s participation in the legal profession and decision-making processes;
– Addressing gender-based violence and discrimination;
– Collaborating with other organizations to advance human rights and gender equality.
The Chairperson of the 2024 FIDA Lagos Law week, Mrs Blessing Omono Omaghomi also gave her welcome address. The Chairman of the opening ceremony, Mr.Theodore Jnr. Ezeobi, SAN also gave his opening remarks.
Apart from the opening ceremonies, the Law Week programme also consisted of two panel sessions, the first of which was coordinated by Anita Tuesday and moderated by Edirin Essiet , with Ejiro Gray, the Executive Director of the Sahara Group as the Keynote Speaker. Other members of the panel were Mrs. Abimbola Akeredolu, SAN, (a Partner at the law firm of Banwo & Ighodalo) and Fayo Williams (Managing Consultant at Simply Exponential Consults Ltd).
All the panelists spoke extensively on the need for the implementation of policies that would favour the womenfolk in Nigeria in line with the overall goals of FIDA.
The second panel session, which discussed the topic, ‘GENDER INCLUSIVE LABOUR MARKET REFORMS: CATALYSTS FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH ‘, was coordinated by Ngozi Arinze and moderated by Uju Othniel. Uju was joined by a distinguished panel consisting of the Hon.Justice O. A. Ipaye of the Lagos State High Court; former NBA Lagos Branch Chairman Chukwuka Ikwuazom, SAN, Elizabeth Idigbe, and a representative of Jean Chiazor Anishere , SAN, who was unable to attend.
At the end of each panel session, awards were presented to each of the panelists.
The second event in the 2024 FIDA Nigeria Lagos Branch Law Week programme was a hybrid event aimed at ensuring the maximum participation of members who could not be physically present at the event. The in-person aspect of the event was held on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at the FIDA Lagos Branch Secretariat in Yaba, Lagos.
As on the first day, the second day’s programme which started with an opening remarks by the FIDA Lagos Branch Chairperson, Mrs Chinwe Efobi also featured a panel session with the theme ‘ACHIEVING LEADERSHIP IN LEGAL PRACTICE: LEVERAGING A GROWTH MINDSET FOR WOMEN’S SUCCESS. The session, whose panel included Chinasa Unaegbunam SAN, Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya, Adejoke Layi-Babatunde, and Chinenye Oragwu, was moderated by Tochi Eze . Each of the panelists shared her unique insight on the true meaning of ‘GROWTH‘, and the need and benefits of cultivating a growth mindset. The session also featured a lovely question and answer segment, after which awards were presented to each speaker.
Day 3 of the FIDA Nigeria Lagos Branch Law Week 2024 featured a visit to the Modupe Cole Memorial Child Care and Treatment Home. Welcoming the FIDA delegation to the institution, the Principal, Mrs. Abosede Oyeniran gave them a brief introduction of the institution. The visitors were conducted around the institution, during which they interacted with a number of the students. At the end of the visit, the FIDA delegation made donations of food items to the institution, and photographs were taken.
The FIDA team also took a road walk from Modupe Cole to the Bariga Market , where they carried out a sensitization programme on the dangers of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), sexual abuse, domestic violence and other related sexual and gender based violence with other ills affecting women and girl-children in our society and the role of FIDA in trying to end the scourge. The Iya l’Oja of the Market, Princess Aderolakemi Awelew received the team on behalf of her members. During the sensitization session, flyers were distributed to the market women to drive home FIDA’s argument. The session ended with group photographs.
On Day 4 of the Law Week, FIDA Lagos Branch marked the International Day of the Girl Child, which was slated for October 11, 2024 with the theme ‘GIRLS VISION FOR THE FUTURE’. The commemoration featured advocacy visits to two Ikoyi-based schools, namely, The Holy Child College , and the Aunty Ayo International School.
The visit to the Holy Child College was graced by a large turnout of FIDA members – amongst them the visiting Mrs. Mojirayo Ogunlana-Nkanga (currently the Secretary of FIDA Nigeria (Abuja Branch). The programme was coordinated by Mrs. Nnenna Nwaokobia , while the Keynote Speakers were Dr. Kemi Ogunoiki and Mrs. Ohunene Scott-Ananaba.
In her welcome address, the FIDA Lagos Branch Chairperson, Mrs. Efobi reiterated the purpose of the visit, which was to educate the girls on their rights, and to keep them informed about ways to achieve success, both in their careers and their personal lives. FIDA’s visit, she added, was aimed at creating awareness and to enlighten the students on the role of FIDA.
In her keynote, Dr. Kemi Ogunoiki also spoke on the rights of the girl-child, citing the various extant laws protecting these rights.
Also speaking, Mrs. Ohunene Scott-Ananaba explored the topic “DARE TO BE DIFFERENT”. She encouraged the girls to be ambitious and resilient in their work.
The two keynote speeches were greeted with another lively Q&A session, after which the Affirmation was taken. The vote of thanks was given by a representative of the school as the event came to a close with the taking of group photographs.
The FIDANS proceeded afterwards to the Aunty Ayo International School.
There, the Keynote speakers were Mrs. Tochi Eze and Mrs. Clementina Ramsey-Osere . Both speakers reiterated the themes so well enunciated at the previous visit concerning the rights of the girl-child and the laws safeguarding them, as well as the need for every girl-child to recognize and take advantage of opportunities early in life, in order to achieve personal and professional success.
There was also a Q&A session led by Chinenye Oragwu, after which the Girls Affirmation was uttered. Flyers, FIDA Helplines and refreshments were distributed among the students, awards were presented to the Keynote Speakers, and photos were taken, as the event drew to a close.
The 2024 FIDA Nigeria Lagos Branch Law Week was concluded with a grand Dinner at the prestigious Radisson Blu Hotel on Victoria Island, Lagos, which also featured the presentation of awards against the backdrop of soulful music and a prevailing atmosphere of camaraderie among the attendees.
The Chairman of the Dinner night and awards was Andrew Malgwi, SAN.
It was the culmination of a fun-filled, exciting, successful and impactful Week.
by FIDATransformative Dialogue with Religious Leaders to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls in Plateau State
Today, FIDA Nigeria, with the invaluable support of the Ford Foundation, convened a transformative dialogue with religious leaders in Plateau State, focused on preventing violence against women and girls. This pioneering event underscores the power of faith in challenging harmful norms and inspiring sustainable change within communities.
Event Highlights:
🔹 Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV): Religious leaders engaged in discussions about the widespread issue of GBV in their communities, sharing insights and exploring faith-based approaches to address and combat violence.
🔹 Faith and Reflection: Participants reflected on the teachings of the Holy Bible and Quran, emphasizing how these religious doctrines call for the protection and dignity of women and girls. The discussions centered on how religious leaders can harness these teachings to foster peace and prevent violence.
🔹 Strategic Action Planning: The dialogue led to the development of actionable solutions aimed at breaking cultural barriers that perpetuate violence, with the ultimate goal of fostering gender equality and justice.
This milestone event represents a significant step towards building safer, more inclusive communities where the rights and dignity of women and girls are upheld.
FIDA #EndGBV #ReligiousLeadersTakeAction #FaithForChange #FordFoundation #GenderJustice #EqualityNow
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Press Release on the International Day of the Girl-Child 2024Theme: “Girls’ Vision for the Future”
As we celebrate the International Day of the Girl-Child observed annually on the 11th of October, FIDA Nigeria stands resolute and in solidarity with every girl whose dream and aspiration remains a beacon of hope for a brighter tomorrow. Today, we do not only celebrate girls—we amplify their voices, highlight their struggles and call for urgent and proactive action to ensure that their vision for the future become a reality.
Across Nigeria, millions of girls are born into a world filled with challenges that are beyond their making. From the plains of the northeast, where continued conflict and displacement shatter the innocence of childhood, to the rural communities where girls are still denied access to basic education, the story of the Nigerian girl-child is often one of untold hardship and deprivation.
A story of daily struggle from dawn, not to prepare for school, but inundated with household chores and in most cases enduring the endless and cruel reality of child labor and gender inequalities. She dreams of a future where she can learn, grow and thrive, yet that dream is clouded by the weight of systemic barriers and discrimination, early and forced marriages, gender-based violence, harmful traditional and cultural practices that rob her of her childhood and future.
In the face of all these adversities, the Nigerian girl-child tenaciously remains a symbol of resilience and courage, daring to dream despite the odds, constantly envisioning a world where she is empowered, her rights protected, her voice heard and her potentials nurtured. However, this vision cannot be realized alone. The girl-child needs allies—people, institutions, and government that will not only listen but take decisive actions and steps to dismantle the structures that perpetuate gender inequality and gross discrimination.
The theme for the year 2024 resonates deeply within our nation. Insecurity, poverty, climate change, illiteracy, cultural and religious limitations and the degradation of progress made in gender parity, have further exacerbated the plight of girls in Nigeria. Nevertheless we make bold to say that the Nigerian girl-child is not a victim waiting to be saved, she is a leader waiting to be heard, standing tall at the frontline of change, challenging oppressive norms and pushing boundaries, yet she cannot win this fight alone.
FIDA Nigeria recognizing the immense potential of girls to reshape our society is deeply committed to creating spaces where their voices are not only heard but acted upon. We shall continue to work tirelessly to provide support, legal protection, and advocacy for the right to education and the overall wellbeing of the girl-child, ensuring that every Nigerian girl has the tools, resources and opportunities to shape her future.
As we reflect on this year’s theme, we call on Government, Civil Society Organizations, Public and Private sectors and indeed all stakeholders and well-meaning Nigerians to invest in proven solutions that address the challenges which girls face. We must focus on and prioritize security, education, health care, and wholesome protection from violence and exploitation. When girls lead, they uplift families, transform communities, and strengthen the nation.
Let us not only dream with our girls but invest heavily into these dreams. The future of Nigeria is in their hands and by empowering them today, we are securing a brighter tomorrow for all.
It is time to rise for the girl-child, walk the talk, guarantee her participation in leadership through education, thereby accelerating progress for a brighter tomorrow where her dreams become reality.
Together we certainly can!
Signed
For: FIDA Nigeria
Amina Suzanah Agbaje, (Mrs.)
Country Vice President/National President
FIDA Nigeria
internationaldayofthegirlchild2024 #girlsvisionforthefuture #proactiveaction #walkthetalk #togetherwecan #FIDANigeria
by FIDAOndo FIDA Applauds Governor Aiyedatiwa for Championing Women’s Development
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) in Ondo State has commended the State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his unwavering support of women’s career growth through gender-friendly policies and programs. FIDA Ondo praised the Governor for fostering a conducive environment that empowers women to excel, noting that the newly sworn-in female judges bring a wealth of experience that will enhance the administration of justice in Ondo State.
In a statement issued yesterday in Akure, FIDA Ondo Chairperson, Barr. Catherine Ogunjebi, congratulated the newly appointed judges, particularly those who are members of FIDA, for their well-deserved elevation to the Bench. She described the appointment of three female judges in succession as a significant milestone, reflecting the Governor’s commitment to inclusive governance.
Barr. Ogunjebi also expressed joy for the women of Ondo State, noting that Governor Aiyedatiwa has introduced numerous life-changing programs specifically designed to uplift women, setting a new precedent in the state’s leadership.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Explores Strategic Partnership with NUPRC for the Empowerment of Women and Children
On September 5th, 2024, FIDA Nigeria paid a courtesy visit to Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, FNSE, the Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), in Abuja. The visit aimed to explore collaboration opportunities to empower vulnerable women and children.
This initiative marks a significant advancement in enhancing corporate responsibility within the energy sector and advocating for social justice. FIDA Nigeria seeks to align with stakeholders like NUPRC to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
Leading the FIDA delegation was Mrs. Amina Agbaje, the Country Vice President/National President of FIDA Nigeria. Mrs. Agbaje reiterated FIDA’s commitment to advancing justice, protection, and equitable opportunities for vulnerable groups across Nigeria. In response, Engr. Komolafe reaffirmed the NUPRC’s readiness to partner with FIDA Nigeria on impactful programs that promote inclusivity, empowerment, and social responsibility.
This partnership signals a shared commitment to creating meaningful change and fostering a more just society for women and children.
#FIDANigeria #CollaborativeImpact #NUPRC #JusticeForAll #EmpowermentThroughPartnerships
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Hosts Impactful Side Event at NBA AGC 2024
On Tuesday, 27th August 2024, FIDA Nigeria held a highly enlightening, insightful and interactive and Side Event at the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference 2024 which held at the Muson Center in Lagos, with discussions focused on the theme: “Pressing Forward: Achieving Enhanced Institutional Structures for Women and Children’s Rights in Nigeria.”
In her Opening Remarks, the Country Vice/National President of FIDA Nigeria emphasized the significance of this platform for fostering meaningful discussions, sharing experiences and crafting strategies to advance the rights of women and children in Nigeria.
Discussants focused on key areas which included the following:
- Strengthening legal frameworks and policy implementation
- Building institutional capacity
- Engaging communities and raising awareness
- Enhancing data collection and research, and
- Tackling specific challenges in these areas
With a beautiful relaxing ambiance the event flowed seamlessly with Highlights which included:*
- A compelling short documentary about FIDA Nigeria through the ages titled “Voice for Women and Children” projecting her accomplishments through her 60 years of existence in Nigeria
- A powerful plenary session featuring notable panelists like Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, Prof. (CHIEF) Mike Ozekhome SAN., and Hon Olivia Dazyam, moderated by a strong heforshe champion Mr. Alex Umoaka Esq.
Notable Attendees:
The event was graced by a distinguished lineup of guests, including:
- Country Vice/National President of FIDA Nigeria and National Executive members Evelyn Membere Asimea, Eliana Martins and Olubunmi, Niyi Arajuwa
- Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN, OON, the 31st President of the Nigerian Bar Association gave a wonderful goodwill message appreciating FIDA and her members for their support
- Chief Tessa Ikimi, the Ajumota of Warri Kingdom, 7th President of FIDA Nigeria, and current BOT Chair of FIDA Nigeria presented appreciation Plaques to the distinguished panelists
- Hon. Justice Elsie Thompson, the 10th National President of FIDA Nigeria and a current member of the FIDA Nigeria Board of Trustees
- Chief Mrs Victoria Awomolo SAN, Past FIDA African Regional President (Africa) and current FIDA International United Nations Representative, Hon. Inime Aguma
- Mrs. Oyinkan Badero-Okusanya, Chair of the Nigeria Bar 2024 Annual General Conference Planning Committee
- Distinguished Senator Daisy Danjuma, represented by an equally esteemed personality also supported the event
- Muyiwa Akinboro, SAN
It was a gathering of great minds and passionate advocates, united in the mission to press forward for the rights of women and children in Nigeria.
FIDA #WomenAndChildrenRights #NBAAGC2024 #Empowerment #Justice
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Celebrates Success at ActionAid’s WVL-N Project Close-Out Event
FIDA Nigeria, along with seven other local women’s rights organizations, marked a significant milestone at the close-out event of ActionAid’s Women’s Voice and Leadership Nigeria (WVL-N) project, sponsored by Global Affairs Canada (GAC). This impactful project was implemented over five years across Nigeria.
The WVL-N project made substantial strides in addressing gender-based violence against women and girls, promoting women’s economic justice and empowerment, enhancing women’s political participation and leadership, and supporting various other empowerment programs.
FIDA Nigeria proudly received awards for having the Most Efficient Finance Officer and Most Responsive Project Officer during the project’s lifecycle.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to GAC, ActionAid Nigeria, and our fellow partner grantees for an incredible five years. Here’s to achieving even more together!
#NigerianWomenMatter #GenderEquality #GBV #FIDA #ActionAid #GlobalAffairsCanada #WVLN
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Hosts National Workshop on Learning Dissemination
On July 4th, FIDA Nigeria hosted a transformative “National Learning Dissemination Workshop” aimed at strengthening collaboration among criminal justice actors for the sustainable implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) and Administration of Criminal Justice Laws (ACJLs) in Nigeria. This event was supported by the MacArthur Foundation.
The workshop served as a platform to share key learnings and insights from the implementation of the intervention, based on an impact assessment conducted across six focal states: Anambra, Bayelsa, Ekiti, FCT, Kano, and Rivers. The focus was on our capacity-building initiative to enhance relationships and foster collaboration among criminal justice actors, formulate actionable strategies to improve the implementation of the ACJA/ACJLs, and brainstorm practical solutions.
Participants contributed invaluable experiences and insights, significantly advancing the effective implementation of the ACJA/ACJLs in Nigeria.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants, the MacArthur Criminal Justice Cohort, and the MacArthur Foundation for their support in advancing justice in Nigeria.
FIDA #MacArthurFoundation #CriminalJusticeReform #ACJA #ACJLs #Collaboration #Nigeria #JusticeForAll
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria’s 2nd Quarter NEC Meeting Kicks Off with a Grand Opening Ceremony
Opening ceremony of the FIDA Nigeria 2nd Quarter National Executive Council Meeting (NEC) held at the Meena Event centre Kano state on the 27th of June 2024, and set the tone for a memorable NEC meeting.
The ceremony was well attended with notable dignitaries which included the noble Chief Judge of Kano State, Hon Justice Dije Aboki, the Attorney-General/Commissioner of Justice ably represented by Hussaini Hassan the DCR; Commissioner for Women Affairs, Children and the Disabled, Hajiya Aisha Lawal Sajiranu; SSA to the Governor on Special Assignment to Women, Hajiya Fateema Amneef; Controller General, Nigeria Correctional Service, ably represented by SCS Nana Fatima Mohammed; Chairman NBA Kano State Branch Mr Sagir Gezawa, Chairman NBA Mr Mohammed Jibrin; Chairman NBA Ungogo Branch, State Coordinator ROLAC & International Idea, Alhaji Ibrahim Bello; State Coordinator Neem Foundation, Alhaji Abba Bello; Coordinator for Policy Advocacy in Kano state, Hajiya Maro Bello; Research Fellow National Judicial Institute, Gender and Child Justice Administration & UNICEF Consultant, Comfort Olubo Umaru; Chairperson Planning Committee of the 2024 NBA Annual General Conference, Oyinkan Bajejo Okunsanya; distinguished members of the National Executive Council; delegates and other notable personalities.
Chairperson of the host Branch, FIDA (Nigeria) Kano state, Bilkisu Ibrahim Suleiman set the tone with a warm welcome speech while the Country Vice President/National President of FIDA Nigeria, Amina Suzanah Agbaje gave her opening remarks followed by remarks from the Chief Judge of Kano state, Hon. Justice Dije Aboki, who doubled as the Chair of the opening ceremony and who officially declared the program open.
Thereafter, a paper presentation by UNICEF Consultant and Research Fellow National Judicial Institute, Comfort Ulobo Umaru on ”Justice for Children: The Role of Diversion and Rehabilitation for Children in Conflict with the Law” followed immediately. Her presentation focused on SGBV and conflict-related sexual violence against children in the context of terrorism. The session ended with an engaging Q&A session with delegates making it a truly educative voyage.
Continuing Legal Education (CLE) session which is a hallmark of every FIDA Nigeria National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in the afternoon of the 27th of June 2024. It was a platform where delegates were further trained on evolving and emerging areas of law as pertain to global best practices. Papers were presented on ”Effective Communication Skills, Best Practices for the Fidan” by Hon. Justice Amina Adamu Aliyu of the High Court of Kano state and ”Legal clinic and case management, Best Practices for the Fidan” by Hon. Justice Maryam Sabo Mni, ably represented by Chair emerita of FIDA Abuja Branch, Rachael Rekia Adejo Andrew.
Stay tuned for more updates and join us in celebrating the impactful work that FIDA Nigeria is doing to expand access to justice for indigent women and children.
