Lagos: The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria has called for increased participation of women in leadership roles within the legal profession.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Chairperson of the Ikeja branch of FIDA, Mrs. Nnenna Eze, made the call during an event organized by the association in Lagos. The event aimed to celebrate lawyers who have championed the cause of women and children within the Nigerian legal space. During the ceremony, some legal practitioners were honored as matrons and patrons of the branch.
Eze identified cultural and institutional stereotypes as significant barriers to the advancement of women in law. She encouraged women to aspire for leadership positions, particularly at the national level of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). She emphasized that with the upcoming NBA general elections featuring female candidates, there is hope for change. Eze assured that FIDA is ready to support any woman contesting for a position, noting that having women in decision-making roles can lead to significant changes.
Mrs. Efosa Etomi, the immediate past Country Representative of the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA), highlighted the importance of women pursuing excellence. Etomi, decorated as a matron of FIDA Ikeja branch, suggested that affirmative measures like gender quotas could help bridge the representation gap. She asserted that women who strive to be their best will naturally earn recognition and opportunities.
Similarly, Mrs. Philomena Nneji, former Chairperson of the Lagos branch of FIDA, emphasized the necessity for women lawyers to actively seek leadership roles. Nneji, also decorated as a matron, urged female lawyers to engage more in leadership contests within legal forums. She cited the recent election of Mrs. Uchenna Ogunedo-Akingbade as the first female chairperson of the NBA Lagos branch as evidence of women’s effective leadership when given opportunities.
Mr. Adebayo Akinlade, convener of the Fight Against Corruption and Indiscipline in the Judiciary (FIACIJ), noted the longstanding gender disparity in legal profession participation. He remarked that although women contribute significantly, they are often not recognized with leadership titles. However, he expressed optimism that the trend is changing, as more women are stepping into leadership roles.
The event gathered past and present officials of the Nigerian bar, along with various legal women forums in the state.