Abuja, Nigeria — The International Federation of Women Lawyers has launched preparations for its 35th anniversary, unveiling a high-powered planning committee tasked with delivering what insiders describe as a defining moment for women’s rights advocacy in Nigeria’s capital.
The committee was formally inaugurated on April 27 by the branch chairperson, Chioma Onyenucheya Oko, who framed the milestone as more than a commemorative event.
“This is not merely a celebration,” she told members. “It is about curating and telling a story, one that honours our past, reflects our present, and defines our future.”
A Strategic Milestone
For over three decades, FIDA Abuja has been a key player in advancing gender justice, providing legal aid, and advocating for the rights of women and children across the Federal Capital Territory.
The 35th anniversary, leaders say, will spotlight that legacy while confronting new and evolving challenges—from access to justice to institutional accountability.
At the centre of the planning effort is Princess Frank-Chukwuani, who will serve as committee chairperson, with Ms. Ojobo Ode Atuluku as Alternate Chair. They will be supported by Secretary Mimi Ayua and a broad team of legal professionals and stakeholders drawn from across the branch.
In her acceptance speech, Frank-Chukwuani described the assignment as both an honor and a responsibility, urging members to deliver an “epochal” celebration that reflects the organization’s impact and aspirations.
More Than a Celebration
According to insiders, the anniversary events are expected to go beyond ceremonial activities, serving as a platform to highlight FIDA’s role in shaping legal reforms and protecting vulnerable populations.
The committee’s mandate includes curating high-profile engagements, amplifying advocacy campaigns, and positioning the organization for greater influence in Nigeria’s legal and policy landscape.
All members of the branch’s executive committee will serve as ex-officio members, providing oversight and ensuring alignment with FIDA’s broader mission.
Setting the Agenda for the Future
Observers say the anniversary could become a focal point for national conversations on gender rights, legal protection, and the enforcement of laws affecting women and children.
With preparations already underway, the event is expected to draw attention from key stakeholders across the legal, political, and civil society spheres.
For FIDA Abuja, the message is clear: 35 years on, the organization is not only celebrating its legacy, but also positioning itself for the battles ahead.
he following members constitute the FIDA @35 Planning Committee:
S/N NAME DESIGNATION/ROLE
1 Dr. Princess Frank-Chukwuani Chairperson
2 Ms. Ojobo Ode Atuluku Alternate Chairperson
3 Mimi Ayua Secretary
4 Nnenna Favour Elom Assistant Secretary
5 Mrs. Ngozi Ikenga Member
6 Lady Francisca Akaniro-Opara Member
7 Grace Okewole Member
8 Dooshima Abege Member
9 Nkechi Ezike Member
10 Blessing Nwayen Member
11 Chioma Okoye-Chukwuma Member
12 Victoria Olosen Ibiezugbe Member
13 Charity Ibezim Member
14 Millicent Emmanuel Member
15 Favour Resoswoghene Ikwe Member
16 Dolly Obiageri Okoroafor Member
17 Dorcas Igeh Oluokun Member
18 Peace Senede Member
19 Susan Mshelbwala Member
20 Lillian Okenwa Member
21 Stella Charles Akupue Member
22 Esther Oyeyemi Member
23 Sherifat Jumoke Adebayo Member
24 Chinwe Orabueze Member
25 Ogechi Abu Member
26 Sa’adatu Temitope Bello Member
27 Azuka Azinge Member
28 Charity Akiri Member
29 Shinekris Irozuru Member
30 Okediachi Favour Obiajulu Member
31 Dansu Esther Yondewe Member
32 Adenike Oluwakemi Aro Member
33 Oluchi Obeta Member
34 Hajia Husseina Yuguda Member
35 Cecilia Makoji Member
36 Chioma Ekene-Okwunma Member
