The Founder of Women Empowerment and Legal Aid (WELA), Mrs. Funmi Falana SAN, has reiterated that economic empowerment remains essential to protecting women’s rights and restoring dignity to the less privileged in Nigeria.
She made this statement at the graduation ceremony of 17 students of the WELA College of Vocational Training, held in commemoration of International Human Rights Day in Ikeja, Lagos. The event was themed Building Lives, Restoring Hope.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Falana emphasised that economic empowerment bridges the gap between access to justice and the practical ability to enforce rights. Drawing from WELA’s years of advocacy and strategic litigation, she noted that many women continue to suffer abuse and exploitation due to economic dependence, as fear of losing financial support often silences victims.
She reaffirmed WELA’s mandate to defend women’s rights, educate women on their legal entitlements, and pursue strategic litigation to strengthen protections for women and other vulnerable persons. Referencing cases handled by WELA, including those involving child abuse, she stressed that perpetrators must be held accountable irrespective of their status or relationship to victims.
Mrs. Falana described WELA’s vocational training programme as a critical pathway to financial independence. The graduation ceremony featured an exhibition of products made by the graduates, including handbags, dresses, and wigs. She noted that the 2025 graduation recorded the lowest enrolment so far, with 17 beneficiaries, compared to previous years when between 38 and 50 participants were trained.
Beyond women’s empowerment, she highlighted WELA’s rehabilitation initiatives in collaboration with the Nigerian Correctional Service. She explained that many former inmates return to crime due to the absence of post-release support. Under WELA’s programme, released inmates are accommodated at the WELA Home hostel in Agege or reunited with their families while undergoing a three-month rehabilitation process that includes skills training.
She also spoke about WELA’s work with homeless persons and drug addicts, popularly referred to as the “Jesus Boys,” and disclosed that the organisation is currently constructing a rehabilitation centre in Mowe to expand its interventions. In addition, she announced the commissioning of the WELA Football Club, designed to engage rehabilitated youths and keep them away from crime through structured sporting activities.
Mrs. Falana urged members of the public to support the programme by purchasing products made by the graduates, thereby strengthening their journey toward self-reliance.
Also speaking at the event, human rights activist and former presidential candidate Mr. Omoyele Sowore criticised government failure in delivering basic services, noting that non-governmental organisations now play a critical role in addressing gaps in food provision, electricity, water, and sanitation. He described plans to tax NGOs as ironic and commended Femi Falana SAN and Mrs. Funmi Falana SAN for their enduring commitment to social justice and human rights.
In her keynote address, child rights advocate and Founder of CEE-HOPE Foundation, Ms. Betty Abah, described economic empowerment as a practical response to poverty and systemic failure. She praised WELA’s vocational programme as a tangible intervention that produces real change and restores dignity to families. She encouraged graduates to apply their skills with discipline and integrity, describing skills as a shield, a voice, and a pathway to freedom.
Legal practitioner Adefunke Adewale called on Nigerians to speak out against human rights violations, attributing persistent abuses to silence, poor sensitisation, and weak law enforcement. She urged victims to document and report violations, noting that WELA provides free or subsidised legal services to indigent persons.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Mrs. Olagbemi Adeola, Head Girl of the vocational college and a graduate of the fashion design programme, encouraged her colleagues to see themselves as entrepreneurs and agents of change, describing the graduating class as job creators rather than job seekers. Other graduates shared testimonies on how the programme improved their skills, confidence, and self-belief.
Awards were presented to supporters and volunteers who have contributed to WELA’s work, including recognition for outstanding dedication to skills training and service delivery.
The event was attended by legal practitioners, senior advocates of Nigeria, and other dignitaries who gathered to celebrate empowerment, resilience, and renewed hope.
Source: Punch Newspaper