By Chinelo Okeke
A delegation of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria has visited the Anambra State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, to seek support for the Co-Impact Project aimed at promoting gender equity within the judiciary.
The visitation to his chambers in the Ministry of Justice, Awka, was led by Mrs. Amara Muojeke, MCArb, Chairperson International Federation of Female Lawyers (FIDA), Anambra State.
Speaking during the visit, Chairman of the Project Committee, Hon. Justice Nkem Izuakor commended the Attorney General for his contributions to justice administration in the state, appealing for his support as a statutory member of the Judicial Service Commission.
Justice Izuakor said the delegation trusted in the Attorney General’s partnership and commitment towards the success of the initiative.
Also speaking, the Project Team Lead, Barrister Ezinwa Obiajunwa explained that the project was currently at the design stage, with consultations ongoing across the ten participating states including Anambra.
According to her, the consultations are intended to help tailor the project implementation to the peculiar needs of each state.
Obiajunwa said that the project is being coordinated in Nigeria by FIDA Nigeria and FIDA International with funding support from Co-Impact members.
She explained that the initiative seeks to improve human resources in the judiciary, identify challenges confronting women seeking entry into the judiciary and address issues surrounding career progression from magistracy to higher judicial offices.
She noted that the delegation was engaging key stakeholders, including Attorneys General, judges, magistrates and judicial institutions, to better understand the barriers women encounter within the justice system.
The Project Team Lead disclosed that the project had earlier been piloted in Kenya with positive outcomes, noting that Anambra was among the beneficiary states selected for implementation in Nigeria.
She appealed to the Attorney General to designate a desk officer within the ministry to facilitate communication and information sharing throughout the duration of the project.
Obiajunwa also informed the Attorney General of plans to organise a retreat for representatives of participating states as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration and deepen understanding of judicial structures.
In her remarks, Professor Ogugua Ikpeze, PhD, Special Adviser to the projec praised the Attorney General for his leadership qualities, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver on the responsibilities of his office.
“I believe you have the capacity and background for the demanding work before you. I am confident you will deliver, especially through collaboration with FIDA,” she said.
The National Publicity Secretary of FIDA Nigeria, Chineze Obianyo, Esq., said the project was designed to expose barriers limiting women’s advancement and promote gender equity within the judiciary.
She commended the Attorney General for the reforms already initiated in the justice sector, describing him as a strategic stakeholder whose partnership would greatly enhance the project’s success.
Delivering the vote of thanks, His Worship Lauretta Okoye appreciated the Attorney General for receiving the delegation despite his busy schedule, expressing optimism that Anambra State would witness positive transformation under his leadership.
Responding, the Attorney General, Mr. Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, welcomed the delegation, assuring them of his full suppo champion the project, stressing that women contribute significantly to societal development and nation-building.
The Attorney General described FIDA as one of
The Attorney General described FIDA as one of the most effective organisations for female lawyer, commending its efforts in promoting justice and gender inclusion.
Chinelo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
