It is with profound respect and admiration that the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) honor the illustrious career of Hon. Justice Nkemdilim Izuako, a trailblazer in African legal history whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the judiciary and beyond. Throughout her distinguished tenure, Justice Izuako exemplified unwavering commitment to the rule of law, fairness, and justice.
Her judicial acumen, evident in her roles within Nigeria, The Gambia, and the Solomon Islands, was characterized by fairness, wisdom, and an unshakeable adherence to legal principles. Notably, her tenure as a judge in various international jurisdictions, including her historic appointments as the first female judge in The Gambia and the Solomon Islands, underscores her status as a pioneer and exemplar of excellence.
Justice Izuako’s impact extended far beyond the courtroom. Her collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime on judicial ethics and her role in developing the Judicial Ethics Training Manual for the Nigerian judiciary demonstrate her dedication to enhancing the integrity of the legal profession. Her service as a judge of the United Nations Dispute Tribunal further exemplifies her commitment to upholding justice on a global scale.
Moreover, her contributions to social development, particularly through initiatives aimed at empowering women and girls, reflect her profound compassion and commitment to societal advancement. The Honiara Women’s Initiative, which she helped mobilize, stands as a testament to her enduring legacy in promoting gender equality and social justice.
In recognition of her extraordinary sacrifices and contributions to humanity, the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) is honored to bestow upon Justice Izuako the prestigious award of Lifetime Membership on August 29, 2025. This tribute is a fitting acknowledgment of her dedication to the pursuit of justice and her unwavering commitment to the empowerment of women and girls.
Justice Izuako’s legacy serves as a powerful inspiration for current and future generations of legal professionals, reminding us of the transformative impact of integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to justice. Her life’s work will undoubtedly continue to illuminate the path for those who follow in her footsteps.
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!
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This day is celebrated on July 31st annually
The theme this year is : “Rooted in Greatness: Celebrating Women of African Descent”
shines a spotlight on the remarkable achievements and contributions of women of African descent globally. This celebration is part of a broader awareness initiative that highlights the impact and greatness of African women in various fields globally breaking and shattering the glass ceilings and driving change across the continents. Let’s celebrate their achievements and explore initiatives that promote their empowerment.
Women Achievers in Africa
Africa is home to numerous women achievers who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.
West Africa
Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun: A respected Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, known for her integrity, wisdom, and dedication to upholding the rule of law.
Hon. Betty Mould-Idrissu, Founder and Pioneer President of African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) Int’l Inc., has been a trailblazer in promoting women’s rights and empowerment in Africa.
East Africa: Hon. Justice Martha Koome, Chief Justice of Kenya and Pioneer Member of AWLA, has been a champion of justice and equality in Kenya.
Southern Africa: Women like Dr. Bience Gawanas, a Namibian lawyer and human rights activist, have made significant contributions to promoting human rights and social justice in the region.
North Africa: Women like Dr. Amina Elbendary, an Egyptian journalist and women’s rights activist, have been instrumental in promoting women’s empowerment and social justice in the region.
Dr. Juliet Ehimuan: Former Google West Africa Director, mentoring emerging leaders and championing digital transformation
Charlot Magayi: Founder of Mukuru Clean Stoves, providing eco-friendly cooking solutions and investing in community education
Damilola Ogunbiyi: CEO of Sustainable Energy for All, positioning Africa at the forefront of global energy reform
Rebecca Amukhoye:: Inclusive economic empowerment advocate, promoting sustainable livelihoods
Sheila Maela: President and Group CEO of Maela Holdings, transforming access to education and leadership opportunities
Global Leaders
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), the first African and first woman to lead the organization. She’s a renowned economist and development expert with a strong track record of promoting trade as a driver of economic development and poverty reduction.
Amina Mohammed: Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), a champion of sustainable development and a leader in driving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She’s instrumental in shaping global initiatives on peacekeeping, climate change, economic development, and youth empowerment.
Female Presidents in Africa
– Sahle-Work Zewde: President of Ethiopia, the first woman to hold the office. She’s a seasoned diplomat and politician who has served in various roles, including as Ethiopia’s Ambassador to France and Permanent Representative to the African Union.
– Sylvie Kinigi: Former President of Burundi, a prominent economist and politician who played a key role in stabilizing the country during her tenure.
– Rose Francine Rogombé: Former Interim President of Gabon, a lawyer and politician who served as the country’s first female head of state.
Former Female Heads of State in Africa
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf: Former President of Liberia and Africa’s first elected female head of state. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011 for her work in promoting peace and women’s rights.
Joyce Banda: Former President of Malawi, a prominent advocate for women’s rights and education. She played a key role in promoting economic development and social justice in Malawi.
Female Bank CEOs in Africa
Adaora Umeoji: CEO of GTBank Nigeria, a trailblazing banker who has broken barriers and achieved success in a male-dominated industry.
Temitope Balogun: CEO of Stanbic IBTC Nigeria, a seasoned banker with a strong track record of driving growth and innovation in the financial sector.
Foluso Phillips: is an example of a female leader in the banking industry, she is the CEO of First Bank of Nigeria Limited’s Business Banking Division.
Notable Female Economic and Social Development Leaders in Africa
Oby Ezekwesili: A renowned economist, politician, and human rights advocate who has held various leadership positions, including Minister of Education and Vice President of the World Bank’s Africa Region. She’s a strong advocate for transparency, accountability, and good governance in Africa.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: Director-General of the World Trade Organization, renowned economist, and development expert promoting trade as a driver of economic development and poverty reduction. She was awarded the 2025 Forbes Woman Africa Lifetime Achievement Award for her trailblazing career in global finance and economic development.
Arunma Oteh: Former Vice President and Treasurer of the World Bank, and Director-General of Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission. She was recognized as the Changemaker of the Decade Award for her contributions to financial inclusion and corporate governance in Africa.
Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti: Founder of Herconomy, a fintech platform dedicated to providing women with the tools they need to build wealth. She’s a Mandela Washington Fellow and a Global Shaper of the World Economic Forum.
Roberta Annan: Founder of Annan Capital and the Africa Fashion Foundation, she’s an impact investor and a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Social Development Leaders
Leymah Gbowee: Nobel Peace Prize winner who led a nonviolent movement to end Liberia’s civil war, promoting peace and women’s rights. She’s the founder of the Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa.
Solange Swiri Tumasang: Founder and General Coordinator of the Network of Women Led CSOs in Cameroon, advocating for women’s socio-economic development and empowerment.
Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni: Founder of Tech Herfrica, a social impact organization breaking the cycle of poverty for women and girls in rural and underserved communities in Africa through digital and financial inclusion.
Rahel Randy: Founder of the Priceless Women Network, empowering women and promoting economic growth
Women’s Rights and Empowerment Leaders
– Amina J. Mohammed: Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, championing sustainable development and climate action.
Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka: Former Executive Director of UN Women, advocating for gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Glanis Changachirere: Founder and Director of the Institute for Young Women’s Development (IYWD), promoting women’s rights and empowerment in Zimbabwe.
Amdiya Abdul Latiff: Founder of RuGirlz EMS and Eco-Me Africa, advocating for menstrual health and women’s empowerment
Notable Female Human Rights Activists in Africa and the Diaspora
Liberian Peace Activists
Leymah Gbowee: Nobel Peace Prize winner who led a nonviolent movement that united Christian and Muslim women to end Liberia’s brutal civil war in 2003. She continues to advocate for peace and women’s rights through her foundation, the Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa.
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf: Africa’s first elected female head of state, who played a crucial role in rebuilding Liberia post-civil war, focusing on peace, gender equality, and women’s empowerment
Anti-Apartheid and Women’s Rights Activists
Winnie Mandela: Anti-apartheid activist and former First Lady of South Africa, known for her advocacy on behalf of women and children. She was imprisoned multiple times for her activism.
Lilian Ngoyi: South African anti-apartheid and women’s rights activist who led a march of over 20,000 women in Pretoria against apartheid in 1956.
Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti: Nigerian educator and activist who fought for women’s rights and social justice, earning her the nickname “Lioness of Lisabi”.
Human Rights Activists
Khadija Gbla: Sierra Leonean-born Australian activist who advocates against female genital mutilation (FGM) and promotes women’s sexual health rights.
Justine Masika Bihamba: Congolese lawyer and activist who tackles gender-based violence and supports survivors of war and displacement.
Farida Bemba Nabourema: Togolese human rights activist and writer who promotes peaceful resistance and democracy in Togo
Environmental and Health Activists
Wangari Maathai: Kenyan environmentalist and Nobel laureate who founded the Green Belt Movement to combat deforestation and poverty.
Miriam Makeba: South African musician and civil rights activist who used her music to protest apartheid and advocate for women’s rights.
Yvonne Chaka Chaka: South African musician and humanitarian who focuses on health education, particularly HIV/AIDS awareness
These exceptional women are making significant contributions to their respective fields and are role models for women in Africa and beyond. Their leadership, expertise, and commitment to promoting justice, human rights, and good governance are an inspiration to all.
Trailblazing Leaders of AWLA: Impacting Nations
The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) is proud to be led by a group of exceptional women who have made significant contributions to promoting women’s rights, human rights, and good governance in Africa and beyond. Some of these remarkable leaders include:
Hon. Betty Mould-Idrissu: Founder and Pioneer President of AWLA Int’l Inc., a Ghanaian lawyer and politician who has held various leadership positions, including Minister of Education and Attorney General and Minister of Justice. Her dedication to promoting women’s empowerment and access to justice is truly inspiring.
Mandy Demechi-Asagba: Current International President of AWLA Int’l Inc., a passionate advocate for human rights and gender parity, and a dogged fighter for justice and good governance. Her leadership and commitment to AWLA’s mission are commendable.
Late Edna Kuma: Former Vice President of AWLA and Country Representative of AWLA Ghana, a fierce human rights defender and legal drafting expert. Her legacy continues to inspire and motivate AWLA members.
Sakinah Adepeju Oduye-Quadri: Secretary General of AWLA, a diamond life member of AWLA, and a passionate gender advocate. Her dedication to promoting women’s rights and empowerment is noteworthy.
HRH Olori Olufunmi Ajibola-Oluyede: United Nations Representative/Director of Programs at AWLA, a life bencher of the Body of Benchers Nigeria and a life fellow of the American Bar Foundation. Her expertise and leadership in international law and human rights are highly valued.
Dr. Abiola Akiode-Afolabi: Director of Research at AWLA Int’l Inc., a Nigerian lawyer, and a dogged civil rights activist. Her contributions to AWLA’s research initiatives and her commitment to promoting women’s rights are truly commendable.
Hon. Justice Martha Koome: Pioneer Member AWLA and First female Chief Justice of Kenya, a renowned expert in family law, and a champion of human rights. Her leadership and commitment to promoting justice and equality are an inspiration to all.
Hon. Justice Zione Jane Ntaba: Council Member AWLA International, a judge of the High Court in Malawi, and a passionate advocate for women’s and children’s rights. Her expertise and dedication to promoting justice and human rights are highly valued.
Hon. Justice Sie-A-Nyene Gyapay Yuoh: Pioneer Country Representative of AWLA Liberia and current Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia. Her leadership and commitment to promoting justice and equality are truly commendable.
Esther Ebhodaghe: Deputy Secretary General of AWLA and former Secretary AWLA Nigeria, a committed member and human rights defender. Her dedication to AWLA’s mission and her passion for promoting women’s rights are noteworthy.
Dr. Uju Okeke Anyaegbunam: Former Welfare Secretary AWLA Nigeria, Member Research Committee AWLA Int’l, and renowned writer and author. Her contributions to AWLA’s mission and her prolific writing are highly valued.
Obiamaka Aga: Chairperson Litigation AWLA Int’l Inc., former Secretary of AWLA Lagos and Chairperson litigation Committee. She is AWLA Representative to Child Protection Network and PBO Foundation. Her leadership in litigation and commitment to protecting women’s rights are truly impressive.
Abiodun Kolawole: Alternate Head Litigation AWLA Int’l Inc., human rights defender, and litigation expert. His dedication to advancing women’s rights through strategic litigation is commendable.
Distinguished Committed Leaders of AWLA Nigeria
The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) Nigeria chapter is proud to be led by a group of exceptional women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication, and expertise in their respective fields. Some of these remarkable individuals include:
Hon. Justice Ayotunde Adeyoola Phillips: is the Chairperson Board of Trustees of AWLA Nigeria Chapter. She is a distinguished jurist with a storied career. She served as the Chairman of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission and Member of the Adjudicatory Chamber of the FIFA Ethics Committee. Justice Phillips retired as the 4th Female Chief Judge of Lagos State, holding the position as the 14th CJ. Throughout her judicial career, she held various notable positions including Chairman of a panel of enquiry and member of several tribunals and committees . Her expertise and integrity earned her recognition both locally and internationally.
Hon. Justice Lati Folami
The Pioneer Country Representative/ National Coordinator of AWLA Nigeria Chapter (2003- 2004) and a serving Judge of the High Court of Lagos State. She is a Trustee of the African Women Lawyers Association, Nigeria Chapter
Her Worship Nihinlolawa Aluko Olokun: Chairman Caretaker Committee/Secretary Emeritus of AWLA Nigeria, and active member of the Litigation Committee. Her leadership and commitment to the advancement of women’s rights are truly commendable.
Falilat Oluwatoyin Orire: Country Representative AWLA Nigeria, Former Treasurer AWLA Nigeria, and Former State Coordinator of AWLA Kwara State. Her tireless efforts in promoting women’s empowerment and access to justice are noteworthy.
Becky Samuel: Immediate Past Chairperson Caretaker Committee AWLA Nigeria, State Coordinator AWLA Gombe State, and a member of the Body of Benchers Nigeria . Her dedication to the legal profession and women’s rights is exemplary.
Her Worship Oluwatomi Ajayi: Chairman Research Committee AWLA Nigeria, Editor of AWLA Nigeria Publications, and prolific writer. Her expertise in research and writing is a valuable asset to AWLA.
Ebere Obiora: Coordinator – AWLA Ogun State, Nigeria. A committed and dedicated member of the Pro Bono Litigation Committee and a dogged and consistent human rights defender.
Patricia Adaku Udechukwu: the Immediate past Secretary of AWLA Nigeria Caretaker Committee, a former Treasurer of AWLA Abuja and a dedicated and committed member of AWLA International. Trained Nurse with a Masters degree in International Medical Malpractice and Ethics Law. Master of International Law and Diplomacy focused in International Law and mental health
A seasoned resource person and mentor and a gender rights activist
Oluwatoyin Ndidi Taiwo-Ojo: Current General Secretary AWLA Nigeria the founder of Stop the Abuse against Children and Women Foundation, popularly called Stop the Abuse Foundation. She is a vociferous advocate
for Human Rights
These remarkable women, along with numerous others, are redefining leadership and driving change in Africa. By supporting initiatives that promote women’s empowerment, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all using the instrumentality of the law to bring enduring change and liberation of the African woman and child from unfettered sustainable development
Initiatives Promoting Women’s Empowerment
Microfinance Programs: Providing access to small loans, enabling women to start businesses and achieve economic independence
Education and Training: Organizations like Camfed, offering vocational training and equipping women with skills for better job opportunities
Health Initiatives: Programs targeting women’s reproductive rights, improving health outcomes and economic opportunities
Agricultural Cooperatives: Women’s cooperatives enhancing food security and economic resilience
Technology and Innovation: Initiatives like Girl Effect, promoting digital literacy and bridging the gender gap
Advocacy and Policy Reforms: Organizations like the African Union’s Gender Policy, eliminating discrimination and promoting gender equality
Support Networks: Women’s networks and mentorship programs, connecting aspiring female leaders with established mentors
Mandy Demechi-Asagba
President
African
Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) Int’l Inc.
31/7/2025
Mandy@mandyasagba.com
Mandyasagba@gmail.con
President@awla.international
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Happy Birthday to our incredible Country Representative/National Coordinator, Falilat Oluwatoyin Orire Esq! 
We’re overflowing with gratitude and admiration for the remarkable work you’ve done for African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA). Your tireless efforts, unwavering dedication, and unrelenting passion have been a beacon of hope and inspiration to us all. May the Almighty bless you abundantly and crown your endeavors with immense success! 
Thank you for being an exemplary leader, flying the AWLA flag with pride, and making sacrifices that have significantly impacted the Association. Your love, care, and commitment to our collective growth are truly cherished. We’re honored to have you at the helm, and we celebrate you today and always! 
Here’s to another year of love, laughter, and limitless achievements! We love and appreciate you more than words can express! 
from all of us @ AWLA.
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As we celebrate Children’s Day 2025, we’re reminded that every child is a repository of dreams, hopes, and potentials. The theme “Children: Our Future and Our Responsibility” is apt, emphasizing our collective duty to nurture and protect them. However, many African children face significant challenges in realizing their fundamental rights.
Challenges Facing African Children
1. Poverty and Lack of Access to Basic Needs: Over half of children aged 0-17 live in poverty, hindering access to healthcare, education, and nutrition.
2. Child Labor and Exploitation: Children are subjected to forced labor, trafficking, and armed conflict.
3. Inadequate Enforcement of Child Protection Laws: Corruption and inconsistent enforcement leave children vulnerable to abuse and exploitation.
4. Limited Access to Education: Many African children lack access to quality education, with high dropout rates and limited infrastructure.
5. Healthcare Challenges: Limited access to healthcare services, high malnutrition rates, and vulnerability to diseases like malaria and HIV/AIDS.
Alarming Statistics
– 19 grave violations against children occur daily in West and Central Africa (UNICEF).
– 57.5 million children in West and Central Africa need humanitarian assistance (UNICEF).
– 2,500 attacks on schools were verified in Africa between 2016 and 2021 (UN).
Efforts to Address These Issues
– Prioritize children’s rights and ensure access to quality education, healthcare, and safe environments.
– Strengthen laws and enforcement mechanisms to protect children from exploitation, abuse, and violence.
– Support children’s emotional and psychological well-being.
– Empower children with skills and opportunities for growth.
Successful Initiatives and Policies
– Birth registration initiatives like the “No Name Campaign” and Nigeria’s Birth Registration Drive.
– Child protection laws like Kano State’s Child Protection Law and Zanzibar’s Children’s Act.
– Education initiatives like removing bans on pregnant students and the Safe Schools Declaration.
A Call to Action
Let’s prioritize our children! They are the beacons of hope for a brighter future. We must work together to:
– Provide access to quality education and healthcare.
– Protect them from exploitation, abuse, and violence.
– Support their emotional and psychological well-being.
– Empower them with skills and opportunities for growth.
Specific Steps You Can Take
– Raise awareness about children’s rights.
– Support organizations like African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) and UNICEF.
– Empower children by creating inclusive spaces and supporting child-led initiatives.
– Advocate for policy change and support child rights policies.
Empowering Women, Empowering Children
Increasing women’s representation in decision-making roles can promote children’s rights and protection. Let’s support the Gender Bills and initiatives that empower women and children.
The Time is Now!!!
Thank you
Amanda Demechi- Asagba Esq
President
African Women Lawyers Association ( AWLA)
27/5/2025
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Has Nigeria met the rights of children vis a vis their fundamental rights listed in the Child’s Rights Act? Education? Child labour? Child marriage? Genital mutilation (right to human dignity and humane treatment) etc?
The State of Child Rights in Nigeria: Progress and Challenges
As Nigeria celebrates Children’s Day, it’s essential to assess the country’s progress in upholding the rights of children. With the United Nations Theme for Children’s Day 2025: Upholding children’s rights is the compass to a better world – today, tomorrow and into the future. This is doubtlessly the key to a secured future
The theme as stated by the
Sustainable Development Goals SDG Resource Centre Children: Our Future and Our Responsibility”. emphasizes both the potential of children as agents of change and the need to acknowledge the responsibilities adults and the Government have to protect and support them to unleash their potential.
Key principles of the theme:
Children as agents of change:
Recognizing the capacity of children and young people to drive positive transformation through their unique perspectives and innovative ideas that can help shape a better future.
Our responsibility:
Acknowledging the crucial role adults play in safeguarding children’s rights, ensuring access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and protection from harm.
Focus on the Convention on the Rights of the Child:
serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding children’s rights, which are considered human rights.
Listening to children:
Prioritizing the importance of listening to children’s views and experiences to understand their needs, aspirations, and priorities, thereby fulfilling their rights to self-expression and participation
This calls for special focus: Voices Amplified, Potentials unleashed, innovations Ignited. Time to drive change is here! Investment in children is our best and most secured investment.
The Child’s Rights Act of 2003 guarantees fundamental rights to Nigerian children, including the right to life, survival, and development; protection from discrimination, abuse, neglect, access to education. and access to justice. Children often lack access to justice and protection, with many cases of abuse going unreported or unresolved
Progress Made:
– The Act prohibits child marriage, with Section 21 stating that no person under 18 can contract a valid marriage.
– The law mandates education for children at primary and junior secondary levels (Section 15).
– Children are entitled to protection from discrimination based on origin, sex, or disability (Section 10).
– guarantees participatory rights of the child
– guarantees paramount consideration for the best interest of the child
– Specifies the duties and obligations of the parents to the child and obligations of the child to the parents and the State
Best Interest of the Child And Participatory Rights:
1. The Child’s Rights Act emphasizes the importance of considering the best interest of the child in all decisions affecting them.
2. Children have the right to participate in decisions making processes that affect their lives, including freedom of expression and association
Challenges:
1. Child Marriage: Nigeria has one of the highest rates of child marriage globally, with many girls married before age 18, affecting their education, health, and well-being.
2. Education:Approximately 20 million Nigerian children are out of school, highlighting the gap between policy and implementation.
3. Child neglect and abandonment
4. Child Labour: Many children engage in child labor, violating their rights to education and protection.
5. Child Abuse:The country struggles with physical, emotional, and mental abuse, including genital mutilation and child sexual assault which infringes on children’s right to dignity and humane treatment
Way Forward:
To ensure the well-being and development of Nigerian children, it’s crucial to:
Strengthen implementation and enforcement of the Child’s Rights Act.
Increase access to education and reduce child labor.
Address cultural practices that harm children, such as child marriage and genital mutilation.
Provide support and protection to vulnerable children. including those in conflict zones and victims of abuse.
provide a one stop victim protection centre, victim support, welfare, medicals, education, access to justice, compensation
Speedy dispensation of justice as justice delayed is victim revictimization and double jeopardy
Promote Awareness about children’s rights and the importance of considering the best interest of the child
Special Protection for Children and Their Mothers
In cases of divorce or separation, we advocate for special protection for children and their mothers. To minimize trauma and disruption to the children’s lives, mothers should be allowed to remain in the family home with the children. This approach would help reduce the number of out-of-school children and homeless children.
Maintaining the Children’s Standard of Living
The maintenance of the children should reflect their pre-separation standard of living. Fathers should contribute fairly to the children’s upkeep, taking into account the prevailing economic situation. Unfortunately, some fathers have been known to punish their children and ex-partners by understating their earnings or manipulating the court system.
Judicial Considerations
Judges should consider the children’s best interests and the economic reality when determining feeding and maintenance fees. Awarding inadequate amounts, such as N30,000 for three children when the actual cost is N180,000 or more, can be detrimental to the children’s well-being. Such decisions can have devastating consequences, effectively sentencing the children and their mother to financial hardship.
Prioritizing the Best Interests of the Child
Courts should prioritize the best interests of the child, ensuring that decisions regarding custody, maintenance, and support prioritize the child’s well-being and stability. By doing so, we can protect the rights and welfare of Nigerian children and their mothers.
AWLA’s Role
Empowering a Brighter Future for Nigerian Children
The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) is a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations – children. With a steadfast commitment to protecting their rights, AWLA has made a lasting impact in the lives of young Nigerians.
AWLA’s Impactful Initiatives
Advocacy and Awareness: AWLA sparks meaningful conversations about children’s rights, particularly for girls, through events and lectures that promote education and protection.
Empowering Girls: AWLA’s initiatives empower girls through education, mentoring, and gift-giving, fostering confidence and potential.
Zero Tolerance for Bullying: AWLA condemns bullying in schools, prioritizing every child’s safety and well-being.
Child Protection Advocacy: AWLA advocates for child protection, working tirelessly to eliminate harmful practices that affect children.
Supporting Vulnerable Children: AWLA provides a platform for discussion and action, protecting vulnerable children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
Access to Justice for All
AWLA’s commitment to justice is unwavering. The organization provides:
Free Legal Representation: AWLA offers free legal services to those in need, ensuring equal access to justice.
Free Legal Clinic: Every Friday, AWLA’s legal clinic provides a safe space for individuals to seek legal guidance and support.
AWLA’s efforts focus on:
Protecting Children from Harmful Practices: Such as child marriage, genital mutilation, sexual assault and child labor.
Promoting Education;Ensuring access to quality education for all children.
Providing Support and ProtectionFor children who are victims of abuse or exploitation.
Building Bold, Brave, Responsive and Confident Future Leaders
Collective Action for Common Goal:
By working together with government agencies, civil society organizations, communities, industry et al, we can create a brighter future for Nigerian children. AWLA’s dedication to protecting children’s rights is a shining example of the power of collective action. Join the movement and let’s build a safer, more just society for all and particularly a more supportive environment for Nigerian children to thrive.
Visit us:
www.awlanigeria.org https://awla.international
Facebook:@Africanwomenlawyersassociation
Amanda Demechi-Asagba
World President
African Women Lawyers Association
(AWLA)
President Legal Pool For Justice and Equity Initiative ( LPJEI)
23/5/2025
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Dear amazing young friends,
I want to take a moment to acknowledge your incredible resilience and strength. Despite facing numerous challenges and hardships, you continue to shine brightly, filling the world with your energy, creativity, and laughter.
As the hope of the future, it’s essential to remember that you have the power to shape the world you want to live in. Don’t let frustrations or obstacles hold you back! You are capable, talented, and deserving of a bright future.
As children, you have rights that deserve to be respected and protected. It’s crucial to assert and defend these rights, knowing that upholding children’s rights is vital for creating a better world today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.
Your rights: commonly known as your Bill of Rights or your fundamental Human Rights are:
- Right to life
- Right to human dignity
- Right to personal liberty
- Right to fair hearing
- Right to private life
- Right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion
- Right to freedom of expression at the press
- Right to peaceful assembly as nd association
- Right to Freedom of movement
- Right to Freedom from discrimination
- Right to Participate
- Right to name
- Right to Education
- Right to quality health care etc
See the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria ( As Amended) and the Child’s Rights Act
The Convention on the Rights of Children
Your voice is a weapon that can disarm any one who tramples on your rights. Use it!!!
You are not just the future; you are the present, and your actions, dreams, and aspirations matter. You are the shining stars who will light the way for a brighter, more secure future.
Remember, you are not alone. There are people who care about you deeply and want to support you in any way they can. Don’t be afraid to reach out, ask for help, and believe in yourself. At African Women Lawyers Association, we resolute to end violence against Children, ready and willing to mentor you and grant you unfettered access to justice. We are your dependable allies. Just a call way
Visit us: https://awla.international
As the SDGs Resource Centre so aptly puts it, “You are our future and our responsibility.” Let’s work together to create a world where every child can thrive, grow, and reach their full potential.
Keep shining, keep dreaming, and never give up on your aspirations. You are the key to a brighter, more loving, and more just world.
Believe in yourself, and never forget: You are loved, you are valued, and you are the future!
Love you loads and loads !!!!
Mandy Asagba
President
African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA)
27/5/2025
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At the wedding of the Century held in Braga, Portugal , with Close family and friends at a choice resort SOLAR DA LEVADA with very beautiful breathtaking ambiance
The picutures speaks for itself. It was fun all through, the food was the best ever, it was simply exotic and classy. A Dream wedding!!! The Secretary General of AWLA Sakinah Adepeju Oduye-Quadri led the delegation with HRH Olori Olufunmi Ajibola Oluyede,( AWLA USA) Obiamaka Aja ( AWLA Nigeria) Oluremi Olanrewaju ( AWLA Ogun/ London, Pricilia Oditah ( AWLA London), Feyi Sule ( AWLA London)
The Bride and Groom KACY ANN KNIGHT
AND ERIC ODAFETANURE ASAGBA
It was a memorable event!!!!
Congratulations Madam President MANDY DEMECHI-ASAGBA!!!
Wishing the latest couple marital bliss, all round successes, fruitfulness and prosperity!!!!!
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