The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Eket chapter recently paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of Eket Local Government Area (LGA), Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Akaniyene Tommey, and his wife, Mrs. Maryann Tommey. The visit was part of FIDA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen collaborations with local governments to advance the protection and promotion of women’s and children’s rights.
The FIDA delegation, led by Ebi Ikhiwhmin Esq., included Blessing Udofa-Poromon, Miranda Nwah, Ime Edemeka, Nseobong Ekpe, Nsikak Udo Assam, and Richard Iyaha Esq. (He4she advocate). Their objectives during the visit focused on promoting FIDA’s advocacy work, fostering stronger partnerships, and addressing pressing issues affecting women and children in the Eket LGA.
Promoting Women’s and Children’s Rights
The team emphasized FIDA’s commitment to defending and promoting women’s and children’s rights, especially in areas such as gender-based violence, child protection, and ensuring access to justice. These are critical issues that have long been on FIDA’s agenda, and the organization continues to push for stronger legal frameworks to support vulnerable populations.
Fostering Collaboration
A key goal of the visit was to foster a more sustainable collaboration between FIDA and the LGA administration. By engaging local leaders, FIDA Eket hopes to create a more robust support system for advocacy efforts, ensuring that policy initiatives geared towards empowering women and children are implemented effectively within the community.
Addressing Critical Issues
The meeting provided an avenue to discuss various concerns, particularly those related to gender-based violence and child welfare. The FIDA team called for more effective enforcement of laws to protect these vulnerable groups and appealed for the creation of safe spaces for victims of abuse. The discussions also included ways in which the LGA can collaborate with FIDA to improve access to justice for women and children in Eket.
A Warm Reception
Mr. Tommey and his wife warmly received the FIDA team, expressing their mutual interest in promoting social justice within the community. Mr. Tommey shared his administration’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence and ensuring that women and children receive the support and protection they need. Mrs. Tommey, a strong advocate for social justice herself, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with organizations like FIDA to make a lasting impact.
FIDA’s Broader Advocacy
FIDA Eket’s visit is part of a broader effort by FIDA Nigeria to advocate for policy reforms and social change. The organization has been actively involved in various national initiatives, including commemorations of International Days such as the International Day of the African Child, International Women’s Day, and International Day of the Boy Child. These events have been platforms for FIDA to raise awareness on critical issues facing women and children in Nigeria.
Additionally, FIDA continues to organize advocacy walks, public talks, and training programs to build capacity within communities and create a more informed and responsive society. The organization’s work in Eket and across Nigeria remains focused on promoting justice, equality, and access to legal resources for marginalized groups.
Conclusion
The courtesy visit marked a significant step towards strengthening the relationship between FIDA and the Eket LGA, with a shared vision of addressing key issues affecting women and children. Both parties expressed optimism about future collaborations and the possibility of working together to create more impactful programs that will lead to tangible improvements in the lives of vulnerable populations within the community.
Through these kinds of engagements, FIDA Eket chapter remains committed to its mission of advocating for the rights of women and children, ensuring their voices are heard, and influencing positive changes at both local and national levels.
