Port Harcourt, Nigeria – July 2025
With a renewed sense of purpose and unity, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria commenced its 2nd Quarter National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting in the vibrant city of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Known for its cultural richness and warm hospitality, the city played host to legal luminaries, women’s rights advocates, and changemakers from across the country who converged to chart a way forward for gender equality and justice.
Theme: “Addressing Key Steps to Gender Equality and Justice in Nigeria”
The Opening Ceremony was officially declared open by Hon. Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, DSSRS, Chief Judge of Rivers State. In his remarks, he emphasized the urgent need to dismantle systemic barriers to justice, particularly for women and children.
Referencing the constitutional backing for social justice under Section 17(1)(2)(a) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and the anti-discrimination provisions in Section 42, he cited landmark judicial decisions such as Mojekwu v. Mojekwu, Ukeje v. Ukeje, and Anekwe v. Nweke that have shaped the legal landscape for gender rights in Nigeria.
Yet, he acknowledged that despite progressive legal frameworks, gender equality remains elusive and requires deliberate, concerted efforts to achieve.
In a rousing welcome address, FIDA Nigeria Country Vice President, Eliana Martins, stated unequivocally that gender equality is not a luxury, but a necessity. She called for sustained advocacy, strategic capacity building, and cross-sector partnerships to break entrenched inequalities. “This gathering is more than an event. It’s a movement for impact,” she declared.
The keynote address was delivered by renowned scholar Prof. Heoma Nsirim-Worlu, who challenged stakeholders to reframe gender issues as core human rights concerns. She stressed the need for inclusive policy reforms, transformation of the justice delivery system, integration of gender education at all levels, and—most crucially—the political will to implement meaningful change in governance.
The event also featured goodwill messages from eminent personalities, including:
- Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN
- Chief Mrs. Victoria Awomolo, SAN
- Prof. Foluke Dada-Lawanson
- Dr. Vera Sam-Dike, Permanent Secretary (represented by Evelyn Membere Asimea, Director, Office of the Public Defender, Ministry of Justice)
- Prof. Cyril
- Inimi Aguma, Treasurer, FIDA International and former Country Vice President, FIDA Nigeria
- Dr. Ernest Philip Osaro, among others.
A special recognition was extended to His Royal Majesty, Dr. Ernest Philip Obeli JP, DSSRS, for honoring the occasion with his presence. FIDA Nigeria also lauded the exceptional efforts of its Rivers State Branch and the Local Organizing Committee, whose meticulous planning ensured a smooth and memorable event.
From powerful speeches to royal presence, from judicial insights to academic perspectives, the NEC Meeting set a compelling tone of collaboration, reflection, and determination.
As deliberations continue, one thing is clear—FIDA Nigeria remains steadfast in its mission to champion the rights of women and children. The road to a just and equitable Nigeria is paved with bold conversations and sustained action—and here in Port Harcourt, that journey is well underway.
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