The Banquet Hall of the Ministry of Women Affairs in Umuahia came alive with passionate advocacy, stirring reflections and renewed commitments as the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Abia State Branch, brought its 2026 FIDA Week celebration to a remarkable close. The week came with resounding calls for stronger legal protection and safer spaces for women and children facing violence, abuse and social vulnerability.

Themed “Safe Havens: Legal Protection for Women and Children in Crisis,” the event drew an influential gathering of legal practitioners, government officials, academics, civil society organisations, development partners and human rights advocates united by a common resolve to strengthen justice systems and restore hope to vulnerable members of society.

Throughout the week-long activities, conversations centred on the urgent need for responsive legal structures, accessible support systems, effective referral mechanisms and sustained community engagement capable of protecting women and children from exploitation, domestic violence, harmful cultural practices and all forms of abuse.

Delivering goodwill remarks at the closing ceremony, the Abia State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Maureen Aghukwa, commended FIDA for what she described as unrelenting commitment to justice, equity and humanitarian service.
The Commissioner praised the organisation’s consistent interventions in defending the rights of vulnerable women and children through legal representation, enlightenment campaigns and humanitarian outreach programmes, noting that many victims had found protection, hope and renewed confidence through FIDA’s efforts.

She described the partnership between the Ministry of Women Affairs and FIDA as critical to advancing the welfare, dignity and protection of women and families across Abia State.
According to her, both institutions have continued to collaborate effectively in combating gender-based violence, child abuse, discrimination and harmful traditional practices affecting vulnerable groups.

Aghukwa stressed that the 2026 FIDA Week celebration had once again reinforced the reality that building a just and inclusive society requires collective responsibility from government institutions, legal professionals, traditional leaders, civil society organisations and citizens alike.

“I commend FIDA for yet another successful week of advocacy, enlightenment and service to humanity. Through your legal interventions, awareness campaigns and humanitarian efforts, countless vulnerable women and children have found hope, protection and a voice,” she stated.

The Commissioner further encouraged members of the organisation to remain steadfast in their advocacy, assuring them that their contributions to justice and human development would continue to leave lasting impacts across communities.
She also used the opportunity to eulogise the administration of Governor Alex Otti for what she described as transformational governance across critical sectors of the state, including education, healthcare, infrastructure development and civil service reforms, noting that the Governor’s people-oriented policies continue to create a more inclusive and progressive Abia.

In her address, Chairperson of FIDA Abia State, Mrs. Aniawonwa Njideka, described the theme of the celebration as both urgent and deeply humanitarian, insisting that legal protection must be immediate, accessible and compassionate, especially for women and children trapped in cycles of violence and abuse.
She maintained that safe havens should represent more than physical shelters, explaining that true protection must include access to justice without fear, intimidation, shame or financial barriers.

According to her, FIDA remains committed to providing pro bono legal services and supporting reforms aimed at strengthening protection mechanisms for vulnerable persons, including advocacy linked to the Violence Against Persons legislation.
Njideka explained that the celebration also provided an avenue for stakeholders to examine existing gaps within legal and social support systems while strengthening collaboration among the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations and traditional institutions.

She challenged stakeholders to move beyond discussions and embrace practical measures capable of improving legal aid services, equipping first responders and creating effective support structures for survivors of abuse and violence.

Adding his voice, Project Consolidator, Chief Chiadi Afam Anumba, described the gathering as timely, especially at a period when many vulnerable persons continue to face increasing threats of violence, displacement and social injustice.
He noted that the legal profession must remain a refuge for victims seeking justice and protection, stressing that FIDA members have continued to serve as courageous voices for individuals unable to defend themselves.

Anumba expressed optimism that the deliberations and engagements during the FIDA Week celebration would produce stronger partnerships, practical policy reforms and sustainable strategies capable of transforming the idea of safe havens into reality across Abia State.

Legal practitioner, A.U.K. Ngumoha, in his remarks, described the event as an important moment for reflection on justice, equity, human rights and the protection of vulnerable members of society.
He encouraged stakeholders to sustain sensitisation campaigns, legal intervention programmes, mentorship initiatives and public enlightenment activities capable of strengthening social justice and community awareness.
Ngumoha commended the leadership and members of FIDA Abia State for their dedication and consistency in protecting the rights and dignity of women and children despite prevailing challenges.

The keynote address delivered by Professor Mabel Onwuka, a Professor of Soil Science, further broadened the conversation by emphasising the importance of empowering women through education, economic inclusion and skills acquisition.
She advocated stronger collaboration among religious institutions, educational bodies, legal organisations and community leaders to improve support systems for vulnerable persons and deepen societal commitment towards protecting women and children.
Professor Onwuka stressed that sustainable protection goes beyond legal frameworks and must also include deliberate investments in human capital development, family support systems and economic empowerment initiatives capable of reducing vulnerability.

The event also featured award presentations and other activities designed to promote advocacy, awareness and community participation in the protection of women and children.
The 2026 FIDA Week celebration in Abia State ultimately reflected a growing determination among legal institutions, government agencies and civil society organisations to confront gender-based violence, strengthen child protection systems and expand access to justice for vulnerable citizens.

Earlier during the week, FIDA had a Road Walk and held a lecture session at the NBA Aba Branch Bar Centre for members.
As participants departed the hall after days of dialogue and engagement, one message resonated strongly across the gathering , that the protection of women and children is not merely a legal obligation, but a moral responsibility requiring collective action, compassion and unwavering commitment from all sectors of society.

Women from across Abia State converged at the International Conference Centre Umuahia in a vibrant display of unity and resolve as the state marked International Women’s Day with far-reaching commitments to economic empowerment, social protection, and access to justice.

The 2027 celebration, themed “Give to Gain: Invest More and Gain More,” brought together government officials, judicial officers, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, faith based organisations and grassroots women in a policy-driven engagement aimed at advancing gender inclusion and sustainable development.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Wife of the Governor, Priscilla Chidinma Otti, the Wife of the Deputy Governor, Adaeze Chidera Emetu, underscored the central role of women in societal progress, describing them as pillars of family stability, economic productivity, and community development.
She stressed that while women remain indispensable to development, many still grapple with structural barriers including limited access to finance and exposure to socio-economic vulnerabilities.
“Empowerment is not optional; it is essential,” she declared, noting that the Abia State Government is “moving beyond rhetoric to practical, measurable interventions.”

Highlighting ongoing and planned interventions, the First Lady’s office announced a multi-layered empowerment strategy targeting women across different economic strata. These include:
Support for 200 indigent female farmers with fertilisers and agricultural inputs
Financial grants of ₦100,000 each to petty traders to boost small businesses
Training of 200 women in vocational skills such as fashion, food processing, hairdressing, and crafts under the Safe Tent Care Initiative in partnership with the National Directorate of Employment
Provision of starter packs to enable immediate income generation.

A major highlight is the launch of the Ahiaoma Programme, a strategic initiative designed to uplift women at the base of the economic pyramid through funding, financial literacy, and market access. The programme is expected to benefit 1,000 women in phases.
The administration also acknowledged the impact of the Renewed Hope Initiative led by Oluremi Tinubu, noting that its interventions have significantly improved livelihoods for women across the state.

Beyond economic measures, the state reinforced its commitment to protecting women’s rights with the establishment of the Nchedo Sexual Assault Referral Centre at the General Hospital Aba. The centre provides integrated medical, psychosocial, and legal support for survivors of gender-based violence.

Mrs. Otti called on women to register to vote, mobilise their households and communities, and support credible female candidates at all levels.
“Women must not only be voters but decision-makers. If you are not at the table, you risk being on the menu,” she cautioned.

In her opening remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Maureen Aghukwa, described the theme as “timely and profound,” emphasizing that meaningful progress requires deliberate investment in women.

She drew attention to the sub-theme, “Access to Justice for Our Women and Girls,” noting that justice remains a critical but often inaccessible right for many due to cultural, economic, and systemic barriers.
“We must ensure that every woman and girl knows her rights, can speak without fear, and has access to institutions that will uphold those rights,” she said.

A strong political message resonated throughout the event, with speakers urging women to actively participate in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The event also spotlighted the growing inclusion of women in governance within Abia State, citing appointments of women into key positions including Accountant General, Chief Justice, and a significant number of Permanent Secretaries.
Speakers referenced the historic Aba Women’s Riot of 1929, urging contemporary women to draw inspiration from the courage and unity displayed by their predecessors in demanding justice and equity.

Keynote speaker Dr. Ezinne Otuaka and legal expert , Chief Magistrate Enyidiya Uma Onwunta reinforced the economic and legal dimensions of women’s empowerment, while the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Becky Ogechi Oguama, commended stakeholders for sustaining advocacy efforts.
Participants collectively emphasised that the commemoration must go beyond celebration to sustained action, calling for stronger partnerships across government, private sector, and civil society.

Organisers noted that the event served as both a celebration and a strategic platform to advance inclusive governance, economic resilience, and gender equality in alignment with global development goals.
With ongoing initiatives such as the Nigeria for Women Project scale-up, cooperative loans targeting women, and support for local industries like Akwete weaving, Abia State is positioning women at the centre of its development agenda.

As the event concluded, one message stood clear: investing in women is not just a moral imperative,it is a strategic pathway to societal transformation.
“When women rise, Abia rises.”

The Abia State Government has reiterated its commitment to advancing the rights, welfare, and empowerment of women and girls, as stakeholders gathered to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration in Umuahia.

Delivering her opening address at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Maureen Aghukwa, emphasized that this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” underscores the importance of deliberate investment in women as a pathway to sustainable development.
She noted that the celebration was not only an opportunity to recognize the resilience and achievements of women but also a moment for critical reflection on the challenges that persist, particularly in the area of access to justice.

According to the Commissioner, empowering women across economic, social, and political spheres remains key to unlocking the full potential of Abia State and the nation at large. She stressed that when women are given opportunities, societies benefit through stronger families, thriving communities, and enhanced economic growth.

Highlighting the sub-theme, “Access to Justice for Our Women and Girls,” Dr. Aghukwa described justice as a fundamental human right that must be accessible to all, regardless of social or economic status. She, however, lamented that many women and girls still face significant barriers, including cultural limitations, financial constraints, low awareness of rights, and systemic obstacles that hinder their access to justice.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the resolve of the Abia State Government to dismantle these barriers through strengthened legal frameworks, improved access to legal aid services, and sustained support for survivors of gender-based violence. She added that ongoing awareness campaigns would be intensified to ensure that women across the state are informed of their rights and empowered to seek redress without fear.

Calling for collective action, she urged stakeholders across government, the private sector, civil society, and traditional and religious institutions to actively contribute to the empowerment agenda. She noted that advocacy, resource mobilization, and community engagement are critical in building a society where equity and justice are fully realized.
Addressing women and girls directly, Dr. Aghukwa encouraged them to remain confident and resolute, stressing that they deserve equal opportunities, dignity, and respect in all spheres of life.

She further expressed appreciation to Governor Alex Otti for his continued support of women-focused policies and programmes, noting that his administration has demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusive governance and social development.
The event served as a rallying point for renewed commitment to gender equality, with participants agreeing that the ideals of International Women’s Day must translate into sustained action beyond the celebration.

As activities marking the day continue, stakeholders expressed optimism that through sustained collaboration and commitment, Abia State will continue to make significant strides toward building a society where every woman and girl can live free from fear and contribute meaningfully to development.