The Inauguration of the newly elected excos of Awla Nigeria which held on the 5th of January 2024 at the Awla secretariat. The newly elected excos are as follows:
1. Mrs. Caroline Ibharuneafe: President [Lagos]
2. Mrs. Felicitas Nwaobi: Vice President [Lagos]
3. Oise Chigbue: Secretary General [Lagos]
4. Mrs. Julie Onyeagba: Treasurer [Lagos]
5. Mrs. Nnenna Anozie: Financial Secretary. [Enugu]
6. Mrs. Monica Akinuli: Welfare Officer [Rivers]
7. Grace Ajaegbo: PRO [Rivers]
8. Mrs. Tawakalitu Toriola: Assistant Secretary [Lagos]
9. Mrs. Dikibujiri Ebenezer Bob-Manuel: Welfare Officer 2 [ Abuja]
The outgoing President in person of AWLAN EFE ETOMI gave a speech encouraging the newly elected excos and the members of AWLA Nigeria. The speech is attached below:
Dear Esteemed Members of AWLA )NIG)
Cometh the moment, and with it, the transition of leadership within our cherished African Women Lawyers’ Association, Nigeria. It is with profound gratitude and a sense of accomplishment that I address you today, reflecting on the incredible journey we have shared and the promising path ahead.
As I step aside from the role of President, I want to express my deepest appreciation for the unwavering support, dedication, and passion each of you has brought to our collective mission. AWLA is not merely an association; it is a dynamic force driven by the shared commitment to justice, equality, and the empowerment of women and protection of children.
During my tenure, we faced challenges, celebrated victories, and stood united against any adversity that sought to undermine our purpose. Today, I take pride in the strides we’ve made, the lives we’ve touched, and the foundation we’ve laid for the future. Your resilience and commitment have been the bedrock of our success.
Allow me to reflect on some key accomplishments that we, as a united front, have achieved:
1. Empowerment & Justice Campaigns: Through strategic partnerships and sponsorships, we launched impactful empowerment and justice campaigns, making a tangible difference in the lives of women and children.
2. Support for Grassroots Initiatives: Recognizing the power of grassroots efforts, AWLA extended its support to female-led organizations and individuals already making a difference in their communities.
3.Utilizing Technology for Advocacy: Embracing the power of information and technology, we raised awareness and developed innovative strategies for advocacy, ensuring our message reached a broader audience.
4. Research and Initiatives: In response to emerging needs, AWLA has been at the forefront of conducting research and launching initiatives to address pressing challenges faced by women and children across the continent.
5. Easy Accessibility To Justice: In operating a secretariat that opens 5 days a week to the general public and a 24/7 toll free line. Reporting of domestic violence and other forms of abuse and client representation has been made easier.
Our shared vision and the values that define AWLA will now be carried forward under the capable leadership of Mrs. Caroline Ibharunafe. As we welcome the new president, let us extend our wholehearted support, ensuring a seamless transition and continued success.
I am confident that AWLA, with its renewed leadership, will not only preserve the legacy we’ve built but also innovate and bring about positive change. Mrs. Ibharunafe, I wish you every success in leading AWLA to new heights, and I am confident that under your guidance, the association will thrive.
In our collective pursuit of justice and equality, let us remain steadfast in upholding due process, professionalism, and unity. The recent challenges we faced during the election process should only strengthen our resolve to work together for the greater good.
As I bid farewell, I urge each of you to stay committed to the principles and aims that define AWLA. Our strength lies in our unity, and together, we can continue shaping a better, safer, and more equitable world for women and children.
Thank you for your trust, your passion, and your unwavering commitment. AWLA is not just an association; it is a testament to the power of women supporting women.
With heartfelt gratitude and enduring solidarity,
Mrs. Efe Etomi
President, AWLA Nigeria (2021-2023)