At the recently concluded FIDA Lagos Law Week, panelists emphasized the urgent need for stronger policies supporting women and called for rigorous enforcement of existing laws.
The event which held in Lagos drew attendees from various sectors, including the legal profession, civil society, and government institutions, all committed to advancing women’s rights. The theme of the event centered on addressing gaps in gender equality, with particular focus on improving access to justice for women.
Keynote Speaker, Ejiro Gray highlighted the lack of robust legal frameworks that cater specifically to women’s unique challenges in Nigeria. She called on lawmakers to adopt more gender-sensitive policies, particularly in areas such as workplace discrimination, domestic violence, and economic empowerment. She also noted that despite several legal provisions, many women still face systemic barriers that hinder their progress in society.
Chairperson of FIDA, Lagos Branch also noted that while Nigeria has made strides in legal reform, the absence of proper implementation of these policies continues to be a major setback. She urged the government to collaborate more closely with civil society organizations like FIDA, to ensure that the laws protecting women are enforced at all levels of governance. Efobi further emphasized that without enforcement, legal reforms would remain mere aspirations.
Additionally, the panelists advocated for greater female representation in policy-making processes, asserting that women’s voices need to be heard where decisions affecting them are made. They stated that women in leadership positions could offer unique insights into the challenges women face, thus enabling more effective policy solutions. The interactive session further made a call for gender parity in leadership roles within both the public and private sectors.
The FIDA Lagos Law Week outline of activity was strongly mapped with the Opening Ceremony which was held on Tuesday, 8th October, 2024 at Four Points by Sheraton, Victoria Island, Lagos. There were different panel sessions including the sessions advocating for women inclusion. On Wednesday, 9th October, 2024, the law week continued with an hybrid session on Continuous Legal Education titled: “Achieving Leadership in Legal Practice”.
Part of the law week activities was a visit to Modupe Cole Memorial Childcare and treatment home and a sensitization programme at Bariga Market on women’s rights.
In rounding off the law week, attendees were treated to a glamorous dinner at Radisson Blu Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos. There was also presentation of awards to some deserving members who have contributed to the shaping of the association.
