By Agboola Fesobi

|

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Ondo State branch, has held a public lecture and award ceremony to honour individuals and partners who have contributed to the association’s success.

The event which is  part of the association’s Law Week celebration, also marked the inauguration of a new executive committee. It was held at the Afe Babalola Bar Centre, Oke-Eda, Akure, Ondo State Capital, on December 6, 2024.

 Professor Omolade Adeyemi Oniyinde, who delivered the keynote address, spoke on the theme: “Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women in Leadership, Politics, and Governance.”

Professor Oniyinde emphasised the historical marginalisation of women in political leadership and the deep-seated cultural and societal barriers that limit their participation in governance.

She called for a shift in societal attitudes and stressed the importance of empowering women through economic independence, capacity building, and mentorship.

Professor Oniyinde also advocated  policy reforms, particularly the implementation of the 35% affirmative action for women in politics.

Speaking to newsmen, the outgoing chairperson of FIDA Ondo, Mrs Catherine Ogunjebi, reflected on her tenure, describing the past three years as “a journey of grace.”

She highlighted the association’s significant achievements, including the establishment of a mobile hotline for reporting cases of abuse and violence against women.

The newly inaugurated executive members are: Chairperson: Bolanle Olafunmiloye; Vice Chairperson, Jessica Akunu Achilike; Secretary, Oluwanike Omotayo; Assistant Secretary, Peculiar Oluwadamisi Okunola and Treasurer, Funmilayo Olagunju.

Others include; Publicity Secretary, Debbie Selumun Msonter-Shagba; Assistant Publicity Secretary, Akinola Faith-Lois Adejumoko and Financial Secretary, Arokoyo Oluwanipinmi Queen.