GOODWILL MESSAGE FROM AARE OLUMUYIWA AKINBORO, SAN TO THE 2025 FIDA NIGERIA ANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

It is with great pleasure that I extend my warm felicitations to the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria on the occasion of the 2025 Annual General Conference, holding here in Ikeja, Lagos State.

The carefully chosen theme, “Bridging Gaps, Building Futures: Women’s Rights, Justice and Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” speaks directly to the heart of our nation’s current realities. Any society that is serious about justice, development and stability must centre the protection of women and children, and must deliberately dismantle the legal, economic and cultural barriers that keep half of its population on the margins. FIDA Nigeria has, over the years, proven to be a consistent voice in this regard.

I particularly commend the National Executive, the Conference Planning Committee and all FIDANs for designing a programme that goes beyond talk, with activities such as the Fit & Safe sessions, community outreach, film screening and welcome soirée, Old Lagos Variety Night, Blue Dinner, and the CLE sessions with CPD points. These are not just social or academic events; they reflect a holistic vision of well being, solidarity, continuous learning and strategic engagement with the wider community.

As legal practitioners, we share a common duty: to ensure that the law is not a distant concept, but a living tool for protection, empowerment and inclusion. FIDA’s work in courtrooms, communities and policy spaces continues to remind us that justice must be accessible, compassionate and gender responsive. I encourage you to use this conference to deepen collaborations, refine advocacy strategies and strengthen the intergenerational bonds that will sustain this work long after the conference lights are dimmed.

I pray for fruitful deliberations, renewed strength for every delegate and lasting impact from the resolutions that will emerge from this gathering.

May FIDA Nigeria continue to stand as a beacon of hope for women, children and vulnerable persons across our country.

Congratulations once again, and I wish you a successful and memorable 2025 Annual General Conference.

Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN, FCIArb(UK), FICMC
Life Bencher & Past General Secretary, Nigerian Bar Association