AWLA Nigeria Inaugurates New Executive Committee[Full Acceptance Speech by the Newly Elected Country Representative]

The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA), Nigeria Chapter has inaugurated a new Executive Committee to direct its affairs.

Cutting across the diverse regions of the nation, the newly sworn in members of the Executive Committee are:

1. Country Representative- AWLAN Falilat Oluwatoyin Orire (Kwara State)
2. Deputy Country Representative- AWLAN Mariam Inuwa (Borno State).
3. Assistant Secretary- AWLAN Comfort Yubuin (Gombe state)
4. Treasurer- AWLAN Hadiza Sahabi Jaredi (Sokoto)
5. PRO-  AWLAN Angela Ofeh Mamuzoh (Delta State)
6. Welfare 1- AWLAN Dinatu Sunday Damilep ( Plateau State)
7. Welfare 11- AWLAN Jovita Oyinaya
8. Secretary- AWLAN Toyin Ndidi Taiwo  (Ogun

AWLA has continued to champion and support women in law and beyond towards reshaping the legal landscape and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.

Meaningful progress has been achieved, in recent years, however there’s still a long way to go in the mission to protect vulnerable population–women, girls and children in Africa.

Acceptance speech by the Newly Elected Country Representative of African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA), Nigeria Chapter Awlan Falilat Oluwatoyin Orire

[Opening Address]

My Lord: Hon. Justice Nkemdilim Amelia Izuako (Rtd), Her Excellency The Founder and Parliamentarian AWLA: Hon Betty Mould Iddrisu, Her Excellency The President of AWLA:Mandy Demechi-Asagba, The Secretary General AWLA:Peju Oduye- Quadri, The Chairman Board of Trustees of AWLA Nigeria Chapter Hon. Justice Ayotunde Philips,

The Chairperson AWLA Nigeria Chapter Caretaker Committee Becky Lama Samuel, the Secretary AWLA Nigeria Chapter Caretaker Committee Patricia Udechukwu, Hon. Member Caretaker Committee AWLA Nigeria Chapter: Carol Ojukwu , Distinguished Diamond Life and Life Members of AWLA, Respected Members of AWLA, Special Guests,

Esteemed Colleagues, Ladies, and Gentlemen,

I stand before you all today with immense gratitude and humility as I accept the honour and responsibility of serving as the newly elected Country Representative of the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA), Nigeria Chapter. Allow me to express my deepest appreciation to the members of our esteemed organization for entrusting me with this significant role.

Acknowledgment of Accomplishments

First and foremost, I must acknowledge the remarkable contributions of my predecessor, whose dedication and leadership have paved the way for our organization’s continued success. Under her guidance, we have achieved significant milestones in advancing the rights of women and children and also promoting gender equality within our legal system. I am committed to building upon her legacy and furthering our mission with unwavering determination.

Challenges and Opportunities

As we gather here today, we are acutely aware of the challenges that confront women in Nigeria and across the African continent. Discrimination, gender-based violence, and systemic inequalities persist, hindering the full realization of women’s rights and potential.

However, in the face of these obstacles, we also recognize the immense opportunities before us to effect positive change.

Commitment to Action

I firmly believe that our collective strength lies in our unity and resolve. As African women lawyers, we have a unique platform and responsibility to advocate for justice, equality, and empowerment. We must leverage our legal expertise, networks, and resources to address the pressing issues facing women and children both in the legal realm and beyond.

Key Priorities

In the coming months and years, I intend to prioritize several key areas of focus for our organization. These include:

1. Legal Advocacy: We will continue to champion legislative reforms and policy initiatives that uphold the rights of women and promote gender equality. This includes advocating for the enactment and enforcement of laws that protect against gender-based violence,discrimination, and harmful traditional practices.
2. Capacity Building: We are committed to equipping women lawyers with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to thrive in their legal careers and contribute meaningfully to society. Through training programs, mentorship initiatives, and professional development opportunities, we will empower our members to excel as leaders and change agents.
3. Community Engagement: We recognize the importance of engaging with local communities to raise awareness, foster dialogue, and drive grassroots change. By partnering with civil society organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders, We will amplify the voices of women and girls and mobilize collective action to address their needs.
4. Networking and Collaboration: Collaboration is key to our success. We will strengthen partnerships with regional and international organizations working on women’s rights issues, leveraging their expertise and resources to amplify our impact and drive systemic change.

Closing Remarks

In conclusion, I am deeply honored to serve as the Country Representative of the African Women Lawyers Association Nigeria Chapter.

Together, let us rededicate ourselves to the noble cause of advancing gender equality, justice, and empowerment for all. With courage, compassion, and solidarity, I am confident that we can build a brighter future for women and girls across Nigeria and beyond.

Thank you.

Signed:

Falilat Oluwatoyin Orire

Country Representative AWLA, Nigeria Chapter 16/3/2024

 

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