On Tuesday, August 27th, 2024, FIDA Nigeria held an insightful and interactive side event at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference 2024 at the Muson Center in Lagos. Themed “Pressing Forward: Achieving Enhanced Institutional Structures for Women and Children’s Rights in Nigeria,” the event brought together legal professionals, advocates, and stakeholders to discuss strategies for advancing the rights of women and children in Nigeria.
In her opening remarks, FIDA Nigeria’s Country Vice president/National President highlighted the importance of this platform for fostering meaningful discussions, sharing experiences, and developing actionable strategies to strengthen the legal frameworks that protect women’s and children’s rights.
Key discussion areas included:
- Strengthening legal frameworks and policy implementation
- Building institutional capacity
- Engaging communities and raising awareness
- Enhancing data collection and research
- Tackling specific challenges in advancing women’s and children’s rights
The event featured a compelling short documentary titled Voice for Women and Children, showcasing FIDA Nigeria’s accomplishments over its 60-year history. A powerful plenary session followed, featuring notable panellists, including Dr Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, Prof. (CHIEF) Mike Ozekhome SAN, and Hon. Olivia Dazyam, moderated by Mr Alex Umoaka Esq., a strong HeforShe champion.
Notable attendees included:
- Country Vice/National President of FIDA Nigeria and other National Executive members like Evelyn Membere Asimea, Eliana Martins, and Olubunmi Niyi Arajuwa
- Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN, OON, 31st President of the Nigerian Bar Association
- Chief Tessa Ikimi, Ajumota of Warri Kingdom, 7th President of FIDA Nigeria, and current BOT Chair of FIDA Nigeria
- Hon. Justice Elsie Thompson, 10th National President of FIDA Nigeria and 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
- Distinguished Senator Daisy Danjuma, represented by a special guest
- Muyiwa Akinboro, SAN, and others
The event underscored a collective mission to strengthen institutional structures for protecting women’s and children’s rights and inspired attendees to continue pressing forward.
FIDA Nigeria #WomenAndChildrenRights #NBAAGC2024 #Empowerment #Justice
