At 60, FIDA Reiterates Commitment to Improve Lives of Indigent, Vulnerable Persons 

Alex Enumah in Abuja 

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria has reiterated its commitment towards improving the lives of indigent and vulnerable Nigerians, especially women and children.

FIDA reiterated its commitment yesterday in Abuja, during a media parley to herald the federation’s triennial conference, tagged, ‘FIDA @ 60: Celebrating Our Legacy, Embracing the Future’.

Speaking, the association’s Country Vice President/National President, Mrs. Amina Suzanah Agbaje, stated that, “FIDA Nigeria, 60 years ago, began with a bold vision to ensure access to justice for indigent women and children whilst championing the rights of the marginalised. 

“Through decades of dedication, passion, and resilience, we have grown into a formidable force within Nigeria’s legal landscape. Our story is one of triumphs, challenges, and undeniable impact, and as we look ahead, we remain even more committed to advancing the cause of justice.”

Agbaje, claimed that in the last six decades, FIDA Nigeria has been working tirelessly to turn its vision into reality.

“From securing landmark legislative victories to pushing for the domestication of international treaties that protect women and children, we’ve championed causes like the mitigation of gender-based violence, enhanced child protection, and the empowerment of women through legal education. We’ve continuously trained lawyers, provided free legal services to indigent women, and advocated for the passage of laws that promote gender parity and inclusion.

“Today, as we mark this milestone, we are proud of the role we have played in shaping a more just and equitable society. As we celebrate, we are also conscious of the work that lies ahead. There is still much to be done, and FIDA Nigeria stands ready to continue leading the charge,” she said.

The Country Vice President/National President disclosed that part of the activities slated for the triennial conference include; A 60 for 60 Outreach to empower indigent women who run small businesses with a profit lower than minimum wage; the grand unveiling of a National Shelter for survivors of gender-based violence—a testament to our unwavering dedication to supporting and empowering the vulnerable; aerobic sessions to promote physical and mental well-being among our members and legal education sessions to booster the knowledge and capacity of our members, amongst others.

Highlight of the briefing was the unveiling of FIDA’s new logo—a fresh emblem that reflects both FIDA’s history and future aspirations.

According to Agbaje, the new logo is more than just a symbol, “It represents FIDA Nigeria’s renewed commitment to innovation, leadership, and justice whilst reminding us that re-branding, re-inventing to remain relevant in an ever dynamic world is much needed for the evolution that we seek.

“It honours our past, highlighting the foundation laid by trailblazing women who fought for equality in their time, and to keep the consciousness to further institutionalise an intergenerational organisation deliberate about mentorship and passing the torchlight to the younger, more vibrant, technology-driven generation of women who will lead in the revolution, landmark legislative reforms that will give women and children access to a fair and equitable justice, an opportunity in governance and leadership.”