The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has inaugurated its Ahoada Branch in Rivers State, with the Country Vice President, CVP Martins Eliana, charging members to protect the rights of vulnerable groups across communities within their jurisdiction.
The inauguration, held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, in Ahoada Local Government Area, marked the establishment of the 49th FIDA branch in Nigeria.
Speaking at the ceremony, Eliana said the establishment of the branch was part of FIDA Nigeria’s commitment to bringing justice closer to communities and ensuring that vulnerable persons have improved access to legal assistance and protection.
She urged the new branch to become a centre of innovation, professionalism, collaboration and impactful service, while encouraging members to speak courageously for people whose voices have been silenced and stand firmly in defence of vulnerable groups.
According to her, members must uphold the ethics of the legal profession, mentor younger lawyers and build strong partnerships with government institutions, civil society organisations, traditional and religious institutions, as well as development partners.
“You have not merely joined an organisation, but you are now part of a national movement committed to using the law as a tool and a force for equity, dignity and social transformation,” she said.b
Eliana further charged the new branch to ensure that its conduct reflected the dignity, credibility and excellence associated with FIDA Nigeria, adding that collaboration would help expand the organisation’s reach and deepen its impact across Rivers State.
Also speaking, the Traditional Prime Minister of Ekpeye Land, His Royal Highness John Madubuyi, who represented His Imperial Majesty, Eze Kelvin Anugwo, Eze Ekpeye Logbo III, said the establishment of the FIDA branch had brought renewed hope to women and children in Ekpeye Land.
Madubuyi said the rights and privileges of women and children in the area had been abused over the years, expressing confidence that FIDA would provide greater protection and access to justice.
He assured the organisation of the support of the Ekpeye Traditional Council and urged FIDA to approach the palace whenever necessary for assistance in achieving its objectives.
In her inaugural address, the Chairperson of FIDA Ahoada Branch, Emmanuel-Apia Sarah, pledged that her administration would take legal education beyond the classroom and into communities across the area.
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She said the branch would focus on strengthening legal advocacy, expanding grassroots sensitisation, mentoring young female lawyers and ensuring that pro bono legal aid services reach those who need them most.
According to her, “A woman who knows her rights is better positioned to protect herself and her children, while a child whose rights are understood and protected has an equal opportunity to grow in dignity and safety.”
Sarah described the inauguration as more than an expansion of FIDA’s organisational structure, saying it represented a renewed commitment to protecting the rights of women and children, promoting access to justice and giving vulnerable persons a voice.
She called on traditional rulers, government institutions, civil society organisations, partners and members of the community to collaborate with the new branch in advancing justice and protecting the rights of marginalised groups.
The chairperson expressed appreciation to the FIDA Nigeria national leadership and other stakeholders for their support towards the establishment of the branch, pledging that the new administration would work towards building a responsive, vibrant and impactful FIDA presence in Ahoada.
