Notable rights advocate and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Jibrin S. Okutepa, was on Wednesday, June 4, decorated by members of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA Nigeria, Abuja branch, as their patron.
Okutepa was honoured for his unwavering support and dedication to the ideals of FIDA over the years. He was formally conferred with the honorary title of Patron of the FIDA Nigeria, Abuja Branch
The colourful event took place at the Bukhari Bello Auditorium, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Abuja, where FIDA Abuja held a one-day leadership retreat for its Executive Officers, Principal Committee Officers and Secretariat Staff
The retreat was designed to strengthen internal structures, enhance leadership effectiveness, and align the branch’s operations with FIDA’s mandates. Welcoming Participants, the Chairperson of FIDA Abuja, Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko, encouraged participants to fully take advantage of the program and draw from the wealth of knowledge and experience offered by the expert facilitators.
Participants explored key areas essential to effective leadership and branch development, including an overview of the Branch work plan, a SWOT analysis of the Branch, the strategic roles of committees in achieving FIDA’s vision and best practices in accountability and resource management. Sessions also covered effective team management, conflict resolution and an in-depth look at the FIDA organogram and leadership structure.
Facilitators who led the sessions included Roseline Tasha, Rachael Rekia Adejo-Andrews, Chibuzo Maureen Nwosu, Wendy Kuku SAN and Amina Agbaje—distinguished members with vast experience at both the branch and national levels of FIDA. The retreat also featured Experiential Nuggets from Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor, President of FIDA International and Chief Mrs. Victoria Awomolo, SAN, past Regional Vice-President, who shared personal lessons and leadership insights.
The retreat was generously sponsored by J.S. Okutepa SAN, who charged participants to work in unity, uphold love in service and remain committed to the advancement of the rights of women and female legal professionals.
A statement signed by Chimdindu Onyedim-Etuwew, the branch’s Publicity Secretary, disclosed that: “The retreat served as a pivotal moment for the Branch, fostering collaboration, reflection, and renewed commitment to the mission of promoting, protecting and preserving the rights and dignity of women and children in Nigeria.
