OPENING REMARKS BY THE COUNTRY VICE /NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF WOMEN LAWYERS (FIDA) NIGERIA AT A MEDIA PARLEY TO HERALD FIDA NIGERIA’S TRIENNIAL CONFERENCE SLATED FOR 21ST – 27TH NOVEMBER 2024 IN ABUJA, FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, NIGERIA.
TOPIC: “FIDA @ 60: Celebrating Our Legacy, Embracing the Future”.
PROTOCOL
Distinguished members of the Press, esteemed partners, colleagues, and friends of FIDA Nigeria, I warmly welcome you all to this special media parley in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of FIDA Nigeria. Today’s event is particularly significant because it provides an opportunity to reflect on our journey and celebrate our legacy.
I want to extend my deepest appreciation to each of you for your unwavering support over the years, standing by FIDA towards amplifying our work as advocates for justice, equality, and the protection of women, children, and vulnerable communities.
1.0. INTRODUCTION.
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 marginalized. 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.
This parley offers us a moment to reflect on that journey, and to spotlight the upcoming conference as a key celebration of our achievements, partnerships, and future ambitions.
2.0.FIDA NIGERIA: 60 YEARS OF IMPACT.
Six decades ago, FIDA Nigeria set out to create a society where women and children could live without fear of oppression, discrimination, or violence. Since then, we have worked tirelessly to turn this 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, enhance 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.
3.0.THE LAUNCH OF OUR NEW LOGO: SYMBOLIZING OUR FUTURE.
In line with our 60th anniversary celebration, we are here to unveil a new logo—a fresh emblem that reflects both our history and our future aspirations.
This 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 honors our past, highlighting the foundation laid by trailblazing women who fought for equality in their time, and to keep the consciousness to further institutionalize an intergenerational Organization 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. The colors, shapes, and design elements of the logo speak to the vibrancy and diversity of the communities we serve, and the hope to dare dream of freedom,justice and empowerment.
4.0. LOOKING AHEAD: THE TRIENNIAL CONFERENCE.
The week-long event promises to be engaging and enriching, with highlights that 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 our 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.
• Legal education sessions to booster the knowledge and capacity of our members.
• A cultural night showcasing Nigeria’s rich diversity and a celebration of our unity, ending with a formal dinner.
This year’s conference officially opens on the first day of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which further underscores our unyielding stand against all forms of violence and injustice perpetuated against women and girls.
5.0. THE MEDIA’S PARTNERSHIP: A SHARED MISSION.
While today is about FIDA’s achievements, I must also recognize the critical role the media has played in our journey. You have been more than observers—you have been our partners, amplifying our voice, telling our stories, and highlighting the injustices faced by women and children across the nation.
Your dedication to reporting on issues that matter has helped push our mission forward, and I have no doubt that as we step into this new chapter, the media will continue to be a key ally in our work to bridge gaps, foster empowerment, and deliver justice.
6.0. CONCLUSION.
Our journey continues, with the support of our partners, including the esteemed members of the media, we are confident that the next 60 years will be even more impactful.
Thank you for your continued partnership, for sharing our stories, and for standing with us in the pursuit of justice.
Together, we will keep amplifying voices, bridging gaps, and ensuring that justice prevails for all. I look forward to celebrating this milestone with you all at the Triennial Conference.
Thank you.
May God bless the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria.
May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
•Amina Suzanah Agbaje (Mrs).
Country Vice President/National President.
FIDA AT 60 Media PARLEY.
